Picture this: Your family is spending time together after Thanksgiving dinner and reminiscing while looking at all the family pictures you had stored away. Sounds like a great time, right? Now picture this: You open up the box of old pictures and you see that the prints have leaked and the pictures have faded. How disappointing would that be? Don’t worry - We’ve got you covered with some of the best tips to preserve old pictures so you don’t ever lose them! 

1. Take the photos out of albums.

Most albums we use are stick and peel or magnetic, and these are notorious for ruining the quality of photographs over long periods of time. Make sure you wear clean cotton gloves while handling the photos so you don’t do any damage during the process.

2. Store them at room temperature.

Photos are just like us when it comes to temperature and need to be stored in a place that doesn’t experience extreme heat. Basements and attics may seem like a good idea, but are not as they can get too hot or too cold. They’re also at risk for water leaks. 

3. Use correct storage equipment. 

Storing photos in plastic sleeves is a good way to prep them before they go into a box and then a storage unit near your home. With boxes, your best bet is an archival type of box or metal boxes as these are more durable than plastic and cardboard. Ensure that everything you use is acid free, to extend the life cycle of your photographs. 

4. Label your photographs.