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Long-Term Storage for Books & Paper Goods

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Proper storage conditions are essential when preserving your collection of books, photographs, and other paper goods. These items are more than just objects; they often hold sentimental value and irreplaceable memories.

Georgetown Moving and Storage Company in Arlington, VA, serving the greater DC metro area, is your go-to for climate-controlled storage solutions. With our expertise in moving, storage, and packing, we offer unparalleled services for your long-term storage needs.

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Ideal Temperature & Humidity When Storing Books & Photos

One of the critical aspects of storing books and photos is maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels. Fluctuations in these conditions can lead to deterioration, such as warping, mold, or fading.

A stable environment with moderate humidity and a consistent, cool temperature is ideal.

  • Temperature: 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Humidity: 35% to 50%
  • Light exposure: Dark or dimly lit environment when not in use

Georgetown Moving and Storage is proud to offer climate-controlled storage solutions, providing a stable environment that protects your items from fluctuating temperatures and humidity.

How To Properly Pack & Store Your Books

While preparing your books for storage, it’s essential to use the right materials. Common packing materials like newspapers might seem convenient, but they can cause harm due to the acids they contain.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly pack and store your books:

  1. Use acid-free paper or archival-quality materials to wrap each book, and choose sturdy cardboard boxes or clean and dry plastic containers.
  2. Clean each book gently before packing to remove any dust or debris.
  3. Wrap each book individually with acid-free paper. Don’t skip this step with old books.
  4. Place the heaviest books at the bottom of the box.
  5. Store books either upright or flat. Storing at an angle will cause warping.
  6. Fill any remaining spaces in the box with acid-free, soft packing material.
  7. Label the boxes.
  8. Store the boxes in a dark, cool, dry, and climate-stable environment.

By following these steps, you can significantly increase the life span of your books, keeping them in good condition for years to come. Remember, for particularly valuable or fragile items, consider professional storage solutions like climate-controlled units to provide extra protection.

Georgetown Moving and Storage offers specialized packing services and materials to ensure your books stay in their best form.

Using Climate-Controlled Storage

Climate-controlled storage is a type of storage unit that maintains a consistent and moderate temperature and humidity level regardless of external weather conditions.

These units are typically found in indoor storage facilities and offer a more stable environment than non-climate-controlled units, garages, or attics.

Here’s a closer look at their benefits:

  • Climate-controlled units keep a consistent temperature, usually between 55°F and 85°F. Extreme temperatures can damage your belongings, including books and photographs.
  • These units maintain an optimal humidity level, usually between 30% and 50%. Stable humidity levels prevent mold and mildew growth.
  • Climate-controlled units keep out pests that can damage or run off with your things.
  • Indoor units have better air circulation and air quality, reducing dust accumulation.
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How to Inspect Books for Food or Liquid Damage Before Storage

When preparing to store your books, ensuring they are free from food or liquid damage is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you inspect them thoroughly:

  • Visual Inspection: Start by flipping through the pages of each book. Look for any stains, crumbs, or spots that might indicate past exposure to food or liquid.

  • Check for Odors: Pay attention to any unusual odors. A musty smell can be a sign of mold or mildew, which often develops from previous moisture exposure.

  • Feel for Moisture: Gently run your fingers over the pages and covers. Any hint of dampness could indicate that the book has been exposed to liquid.

  • Examine the Pages: Look particularly at the edges of the pages, as these areas can easily capture food residues or moisture.

  • Clean as Necessary: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any loose particles from the pages and cover. If you find any sticky spots, a lightly dampened cloth (water only) can be used to gently wipe them away, taking care not to wet the book.

Ensuring your books are clean and dry will protect them from potential damage during storage, preserving your collection for the future.

How Often Should You Check on Books in Long-Term Storage?

When it comes to storing your beloved books, out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. Regularly checking on your books is vital to ensure they remain in pristine condition while in long-term storage. Here’s how often you should make it a routine:

  • Set a Regular Schedule: Aim to inspect your book storage at least quarterly. This frequency strikes a balance between vigilance and practicality, allowing you to catch any signs of damage early.

  • Use Reminders: To stay consistent, set reminders on your smartphone, calendar, or planner. This will help you remember to check in on your collection.

  • Look for Signs of Damage: During each check, keep an eye out for issues like dampness, mold, insect infestations, or physical damage. Addressing these promptly can save your books from further harm.

  • Adjust as Needed: Factors like climate, storage conditions, and the rarity of your books might require more frequent inspections. Pay attention to these variables and adjust your schedule accordingly.

By following these tips, you ensure your treasured collection remains protected and in excellent shape, even in long-term storage.

Climate-Controlled Book Storage With Georgetown Moving and Storage

With a bit of planning, you can keep your beloved books and photos safe for the long haul. Georgetown Moving and Storage is the perfect partner for this. Our climate-controlled storage units provide the ideal environment to protect your precious memories from temperature changes, humidity, and other potential dangers.

We’re in Arlington, VA, and serve the greater DC metro area. We offer more than just storage solutions. We promise to protect and preserve your cherished items. When you choose Georgetown Moving and Storage, you’re not just getting a storage space; you’re getting peace of mind.

Call (703) 889-8899 for a free estimate from Georgetown Moving and Storage.

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