Antiques and collectibles are treasured items, but there is often not enough space at home to store them. A storage container is an ideal option, as it provides security, water resistance, wind protection, pest control, and controls fluctuations in temperature and humidity. However, careful planning needs to be involved if you are putting things into storage, including in the packing and storage process, as antiques are often fragile and can be worth a lot of money, so they need to be looked after. Here is our guide on how to store antiques.
How to store antique books
Antique books are delicate items that are incredibly susceptible to damage if not stored properly. In terms of storing antique books:
- Antique books should be stored in a cool, dry place away from harsh sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Books should be clean and dry before they are packed. As a precaution, they should be wrapped in good-quality archival paper. Leather bindings that are degraded and powdery will stain other items and they should also be wrapped in archival paper.
- Packing boxes for book storage should be strong, clean, dry and able to be closed.
- Small or medium-sized books can be packed either lying flat or standing upright. Large, heavy books should be stored lying flat. Never store books resting on the spine, as this can seriously damage bindings.
- Pack larger, heavier books at the bottom of the box, with smaller, lighter ones on top.
How to store antique clothing
To preserve it for future generations, antique clothing requires careful storage. Here are some of our top tips:
- Before storing antique clothing, the key is to clean it properly. Any stains, dirt or insects left on the clothing can cause damage over time.
- In terms of cleaning, gentle methods are recommended that won’t harm the clothing itself or any fragile clothing components.
- When packing antique clothing for storage, consider investing in storage materials such as padded hangers and acid-free tissue paper.
- Avoid packing items too closely together, as this can cause the fabric to wrinkle, crease, and become damaged. If possible, store antique clothing flat in acid-free boxes or containers. This will help prevent any stress or strain on the fabric.
- Antique clothing should also be stored in a cool, dry place free from direct sunlight, moisture, and fluctuating temperatures.
How to store antique furniture
Antique furniture requires proper storage to safeguard it from damage, especially during long-term storage. In terms of how to store furniture in a shipping container:
- Make sure the furniture is clean using a gentle cleaning product to remove any dust or dirt.
- If possible, disassemble antique furniture by removing any shelves, drawers, or other detachable parts to make it easier to store.
- Wrap the furniture in soft, breathable material such as moving blankets, towels, or furniture pads. Avoid plastic or other non-breathable materials, as they can trap moisture and cause damage.
- Use corner protectors on the corners and edges of the furniture during transport and storage. Foam or bubble wrap can also be used.
- Elevate the furniture, if possible, by placing it on blocks or pallets. Avoid stacking furniture on top of each other, as this can put stress on the legs and joints of the furniture.
How to store antique jewellery
Jewellery can hold both financial and sentimental value, so it’s essential you take the time and care to pack and store your antique jewellery properly.
- The key to protecting antique jewellery in storage is to protect it from the elements, so it is recommended that it be stored in a sealed, cushioned and externally solid box or container.
- Don’t pack jewellery pieces on top of one another when storing, as they can tangle and it can cause irreparable damage. Packing them independently will ensure they will be in the best condition for years to come.
- It’s also worth labelling every storage container your jewellery is in to help you find it easily when the time comes to resurrect it!
Contact us today for more tips on how to store furniture in a shipping container or to discuss our on-site and off-site storage solutions.
References
- Self Store (17 April 2023), How to store jewellery, Self Store blog, accessed 13 June 2024.
- Universal Storage Group (2024), How to store antiques in a storage unit, Universal Storage Group blog, accessed 13 June 2024.
- State Library Victoria (2015), Packing and storing books, State Library Victoria blog, accessed 13 June 2024.
