Antiques and collectibles are valuable assets that require specialized care when placed in storage. Proper storage preserves their value and ensures they remain in the same pristine condition as when they were first stored. However, many people unknowingly store their antiques and collectibles incorrectly, leading to damage or loss. Here are some expert tips for storing collectibles and antiques safely.
Tips for Storing Collectibles and Antiques Safely
Safely Storing Collectible Items and Antiques
Proper packaging and storage conditions are crucial for preserving valuable items. Certain items, such as wooden furniture, artwork, and delicate fabrics, require a climate-controlled storage unit to protect against temperature and humidity fluctuations.
Additionally, materials such as wood and fabric must be safeguarded from exposure to insects, dust, and direct light, which can cause long-term damage.
Keep an Inventory of Your Collectibles
Before placing antiques in storage, it’s important to maintain a detailed record of each item. This can be useful for both organization and insurance purposes.
- Take note of unique hallmarks, serial numbers, and distinguishing features.
- Photograph each item from multiple angles with clear, high-resolution images.
- Record the date items enter storage and their expected retrieval order.
- Document appraised values if items have been professionally evaluated.
Keeping an organized record ensures that nothing is misplaced and helps in case of insurance claims or future resale.
Wrapping Furniture and Fragile Items To Prevent Damage
All furniture and fragile collectibles should be wrapped or sealed. This prevents any scuff or rubbing damage during transport. Furthermore, it protects these items against any dust or light.
Specific items like guitars may also have special requirements, such as removing the strings or detuning the guitar. If you have a particular collectible and are unsure how to store it, check with an antique expert before moving it to its temporary home.
When wrapping, make sure that your chosen material is safe. Some plastic types can dye or damage antiques thanks to the chemicals. You can find specific materials for wrapping antique furniture.
Take note of the tape used, too. Some types of tape will leave a sticky residue that can damage older wood and fabric.
Padding and Packing Items
Small items should be packed and padded sufficiently. Ensure the weight of something else can’t crush items during transit or storage.
Mark each storage box clearly, and surround the item with enough sturdy packing material. Be sure it has no room to move or shake around.
You can create a snug housing using polystyrene sheets and a craft knife for high-value items. Smartphones, for example, arrive at their destinations intact thanks to careful packing. This is one way to do the same for your collectibles or antiques.
Protecting Against Light and UV
Antiques and collectibles should always be protected from light and UV, which can damage many types of antique furniture. This causes an irreversible fade that can rarely be restored entirely.
Ensure that items are never exposed to direct light, especially when spending time in storage. This will depend on where you store items and how they’ve been packed.
Treat and Clean Furniture Before Storage
Furniture should be cleaned and treated with protective chemicals before storing. This doesn’t mean you should spray your couches with the first thing you find.
Special chemicals for protecting antiques can be sourced through your nearest antique dealer or store. This will protect items in storage and add an extra layer of protection. Plus, it keeps bugs and dust away from valuables.
Maintaining Paintings and Other Items
Paintings and other specific items require specific storage. This can depend on the era and type of paint that was used. Different kinds of canvasses also require different types of care.
Unless you’re an art expert, you shouldn’t guess. Call an art dealer or antiques specialist for the best advice on how to store your art pieces.
Update Your Insurance Policy
If any of your items are insured, you might have to update your insurance policy when items go to storage. Changing the location of your items might also impact your policy or how much you’re paying.
Moving items to a storage facility could void your insurance plan without prior notice. For peace of mind, never guess. Ensure the details are correct before storing your antiques or collectibles.
Follow these tips on storing collectibles and antiques safely.
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