Storing mementos

[Juliah]

I am looking for boxes to store things I want to save for long time. Some of the items are papers (which may or may not ever make it into a scrapbook), and some are objects, like a stuffed animal, toys, trophies, and other things from DS's childhood.

I'm hoping as experts on scrapping you might be able to point me to what kind of boxes I should get to preserve the momentos. Is it a complete no-no to keep papers in plastic boxes? How about the objects?

Also, can you recommend any sources for boxes?

Thanks!

 

[pjlla]

Well..... as far as the papers go, it is important to store them in something acid free. Also they should be kept away from sunlight and extremes of heat, cold, and humidity. Usually keeping them somewhere in your regular living area (as opposed to the attic, basement, or garage) is good.

Not so sure about the other items. Definitely keep them out of a hot attic and a damp basement. Beyond that I guess I would suggest keeping them sealed in some sort of plastic box. Maybe with some sort of humidity remover packets (like the stuff that comes in boxes with shoes).

Have you considered possibly just taking pictures of some of the items and getting rid of the item itself? I know that it is hard to do, but sometimes is necessary. With the trophies, maybe you could peel off the engraved tag on the front and save it with the picture?? Just some thoughts. (Easy for me to say, I'm a confirmed packrat of the highest rank!) Good luck.... I'm sure that others will be here with better suggestions!........................P

 

[Juliah]

Thanks for the tips, pjlla! That's a good idea about taking photos instead of saving a lot of things, though in DS's case, because he is not the pack rat I am, I'm confident what he is saving is the bare minimum.

 

[MazdaUK]

I believe the important thing is to wrap the object in acid-free tissue. You could also save those little sachets that come with new bags and pop those in to keep humidity down. Soft toys can be kept in a freezer to discourage dust mites/moths etc!

 

[Juliah]

Thanks MazdaUK. Never heard of freezing toys!

Do you know what sort of store would sell acid-free tissue paper? Or maybe somewhere I could get it online?

 

[JandJ]

I've gotten acid free tissue from these folks:
http://www.theastutecollector.com/

I also got my wedding gown preservation box from them. Very nice to deal with. Other places may be cheaper, but I really liked their customer service and fast delivery.

 

[Juliah]

JandJ, Thanks! That looks like a great site.

 

[quiltymom]

For papers I'd use Creative Memories File Mate and File Mate Folders. The plastic is PVC free and the folders are photo safe. You can organize and file them as you wish, and it can hold up to 10x12 pieces of paper.

Whatever you do, do not wrap anything in plastic bags! My mom did this years ago to my baby doll, and the plastic actually removed the color from the dolls face! Now I've an albino baby doll. Yikes! You can also get acid-free storage boxes along with the tissue paper (containerstore.com also carries this), and yes, keep it in a humidity-controlled environment.

 

[Juliah]

Great info, quiltymom. Thanks! The container store looks really neat.