Old photos are fragile. Whether they’re sitting in a box or framed on a wall, they’re constantly at risk of fading, staining, or breaking down. Understanding what causes the damage is the first step in preventing it.
Direct sunlight and high temperatures can quickly cause fading and discolouration. Keep photos out of direct light and away from heat sources like radiators or window sills.
Humidity is a major threat. It can cause curling, warping, and mould growth. Photos should be stored in a dry space with stable, moderate temperatures.
Sticky albums, rubber bands, and non-archival boxes can leave residue or pressure marks. Acidic paper and certain adhesives also do long-term harm.
Even without visible damage, photos naturally break down due to the chemicals used in old printing processes. This process speeds up when exposed to air, moisture or pollutants.
To protect your photos, store them in archival-quality sleeves, boxes or albums and consider having them professionally scanned and restored. Once digitised, they’re safe from environmental wear.