Conservation packing guidance

Why packaging matters

Using the wrong materials to store items in your personal archive can cause long-term damage. Acidity and discoloration from poor-quality papers can migrate to nearby documents, leading to staining and deterioration. Proper packaging protects your archive and significantly extends its life.

Envelopes and boxes

Avoid:

• Newspaper, brown paper, recycled paper (high lignin content makes them acidic, brittle, and discolored over time).
• Cardboard, wood, or metal boxes.

Use instead:

• Archival envelopes, folders, or wrapping paper for primary packaging and secure with a soft, unbleached cotton tape.
• Archival-quality boxes are best, but any box is better than none.

Clear plastic sleeves

Avoid:

• PVC sleeves (commonly sold in stationers) – they emit acids and degrade over time.

Use instead:

• Archival polyester sleeves (except where ink is friable). Use ne sleeve per single sheet item. 

Photographs

Avoid:

• Commercial albums (especially self-adhesive) and plastic sleeves.
• Excessive handling – oils from fingers damage prints and negatives.

Use instead:

• Mount with photo corners in archival albums.
• Store in “silver safe” envelopes or archival polyester/polypropylene pockets.
• Handle with vinyl or nitrile gloves or by edges only. Do not use cotton gloves.
• Create a copy set for frequent viewing.

Fastening documents

Avoid:

• Metal fasteners (paper clips, staples) – they stain and damage paper.
• String or colored tapes for tying bundles.

Use instead:

• If essential, use solid brass clips with a protective paper strip between the clip and the document.
• Folders, envelopes, or boxes to contain the material and tie the packaging rather than tying documents directly.
• Wide, soft, unbleached cotton tape for securing bundles, with protective paper or four-flap folders wrapping them.

Mounting and framing

Avoid:

• Framing original items (pigments fade, paper discolors).
• Standard mount boards and back boards (acidic).
• Sellotape or unsuitable adhesives.
• Direct contact with glass or clip frames.

Use instead:

• Frame duplicates (scans or photocopies).
• Conservation-grade mount boards (100% rag or lignin-free buffered boards).
• Archival framing tape or professional conservator services.
• Window mounts or archival spacers to prevent glass contact.
• Sealed frames with gummed tape for dust and pest protection.

Labelling your collection

Avoid:

• Adhesive labels or tapes on items.
• Paper inserts or Post-its in books.

Use instead:

• Label packaging instead (pencil for paper, indelible pen for polyester).
• If marking pages, use archival paper or keep notes separately.

Choosing quality materials

Terms like “acid-free” can be misleading. Look for:

• Lignin-free
• Buffered (not for photographs)
• pH over 7
• High alpha-cellulose content

Higher cost often indicates better quality. Use premium materials for primary packaging (e.g., packing that is in direct contact with the item) and economical options for secondary packaging (e.g., boxes).

Recommended UK suppliers

• PEL
• Conservation by Design
• Conservation Resources