Collecting antiques can be intimidating for several reasons. The first and most obvious is that antiques are often extremely fragile due to their age. If you know the basics of fine art and antique storage, you might know that museums and galleries go to great lengths to preserve antiques. From displaying objects in glass cases to storing them in specialized vaults, institutions work hard to ensure their precious artifacts are protected at all times. It seems like there is no simple way to go about it, right?
While professional museum-level storage conditions are extremely difficult to replicate in an at-home environment, that does not mean antiques cannot be stored successfully in your home. Take, for example, millions of collectors who manage to keep their valuables in perfect condition for decades. But what is their secret?
Antique Storage: Collector’s Secrets
First, let’s figure out what professional art storage facilities have that most regular living spaces don’t. To ensure the perfect environment for art and antique conservation, art storage companies must always pay attention to moisture and temperature levels. They also have to conduct regular inspections to spot early signs of mold and pest infestation. That is not to mention that no leaks or open vents are allowed inside an art storage space. Many collectors end up renting a fine art storage unit for their collection for that exact reason.
While you likely will not be able to reach the level of a professional fine art storage facility in your home, you can still ensure your collection stays safe from hazards. First, pick a room where you would like to store your antiques and ensure there is no direct light and no open vents. In addition, you will need to ensure that you can keep humidity and temperature strictly at recommended levels. Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers depending on your situation.
Once you’ve picked a room, prepare your antiques for storage. Use acid-free materials to protect the items from oxidizing and prevent dust from accumulating. You must gently clean your antiques and inspect them for signs of aging, but the specific routine will depend on the material your antique object is made from.
To answer our question, organizing great antique storage at home is completely possible but requires a lot of work. If you need a simpler and more convenient solution, we recommend that you follow the example of seasoned collectors and opt for a professional art storage service.