Starting your preservation journey can initially seem daunting. You might wonder, "Why should I choose this box over a cheaper one at the craft store? It's acid-free; isn't that sufficient?" We hear these questions frequently.
The truth is that items not meeting or surpassing the Library of Congress standards can actually cause your photographs, papers, garments, or textiles to deteriorate more quickly. Yikes!
We created this infographic to outline what specifications you should be looking for when choosing storage materials.
Why Archival?
Acid-free is just ONE piece of the puzzle!
- Lignin-Free - Lignin is removed from the wood pulp because it produces acids and darkens paper. Learn more >
- Thickness (point, lb., mil) - Archival enclosures are the ideal thickness for the size of the enclosure to provide the necessary support for fragile objects.
- Safe Adhesives - Adhesives are pH neutral and don't contain damaging chemicals. Learn more >
- Layers of Protection - Archival products are designed to work together to create layers of protection and support.
- Passed P.A.T. (Photographic Activity Test) - To ensure materials are safe for storing sensitive photos. Learn more >
- Acid-Free - pH is 7.0 or greater at the time of manufacture. Learn more >
- Design - Archival enclosures have features that help minimize damage during storage and handling.
- Inert Plastics - Plastics used are safe for preservation. Learn more >
- Buffered Materials - An alkaline buffer is added to some products to neutralize acids from items being preserved. Learn more >
- Reactive Chemicals - Archival materials don't contain harmful additives.
- UV Protection - Opaque or UV-filtering materials help prevent light damage and fading.
- Rigorous Standards - Meets/exceeds specs required by renowned preservation institutions. Learn more >
- Construction - Archival enclosures are built to stand the test of time.