Whether you’ve inherited valuable heirlooms or are downsizing, a storage unit may come in handy. Before hauling the items to a storage facility, pack them properly to protect them in the long term. Acid-free tissue paper safeguards a range of delicate materials for decades. Here is what you should know about this packing solution. 

What Is Acid-Free Paper? 

This type of tissue paper is specially designed for packing delicate items, such as antiques, artwork, and textiles. It is durable and long-lasting, with a lifespan of up to 500 years.

It’s also free of acids, which could eat away at materials left sitting for years. For example, it has pH levels between 7 and 14, containing no sulfur and lignin. Lignin, a polymer often used in regular paper, can turn into hydrochloric acid over time, damaging packed items. Acid-free supplies have similar textures as regular tissue paper, but don’t bring the risk of acid damage.

How Should You Pack With It?

Use acid-free tissue to create buffers and padding between the items in a box. Pair it with acid-free boxes for additional protection.

Clean clothing before stowing it to prevent odors. Wrap each garment separately in tissue, trying to avoid folding. Instead, position pieces as they’re intended to be worn to avoid creasing and tearing. If you need to pack artwork, remove any backing and framing elements, as glue could contain acidic components. Cover pieces with paper on both sides.

When packing, keep the container’s lid slightly ajar to promote ventilation, which reduces the risk of condensation. This step is helpful because acid-free tissue can degrade when exposed to moisture or sunlight. Store the bins in a dark, cool place with about 50% humidity. A climate-controlled storage unit offers these conditions.

If you’re looking for climate-controlled storage in Flathead County, turn to CJ’s Storage in Columbia Falls, MT. Serving the Kalispell, Columbia Falls, and Whitefish areas, this storage facility provides a range of options for residential and commercial clients, with units ranging from 5x10 to 20x20 square feet. Visit their website to learn more about their climate-controlled storage units, or call (406) 892-1272 to discuss your needs.