Print Care

Use acid-free, lignin-free mats and backings when framing. Buffered mats are ideal, especially for black-and-white photography.

Use UV-filtering glass or acrylic to reduce fading. “Museum glass” is especially effective for limited-edition works.

Dust regularly with a soft microfiber cloth. Apply cleaner to the cloth, not the glass or acrylic. Avoid ammonia-based products on acrylic surfaces.

Display prints away from direct sunlight and bright fluorescent or incandescent lighting. Light exposure is cumulative and irreversible.

Ideal indoor conditions: 65–70°F and 30–50% relative humidity, with minimal daily fluctuations (< ±5%).

For high-value or color prints, cold storage (below 40°F) can greatly extend lifespan.

Always hold prints by the edges or wear clean cotton or nitrile gloves. Oils from fingers break down emulsions over time.

Don’t use rubber bands, clips, adhesive tapes, or pressure-sensitive albums. They can warp or stain prints.

Remove prints from envelopes and albums; store horizontally in acid-free folders or vertically in shallow archival boxes.

Use acid-free paper interleaving and photo-safe plastic sleeves (polyester, polypropylene, or polyethylene) to protect surfaces.

Avoid storage in basements, attics, or garages due to temperature swings, humidity, and pests.

Dust and gaseous pollutants (e.g., paint fumes, exhaust, cleaning chemicals) can damage prints over time.

Use HVAC filters and keep prints away from sources of indoor pollution.

Avoid porous materials like untreated plywood, rubber cement, or PVC. These emit damaging gases.

For limited-edition items, consider rotating what’s on display to reduce light exposure.

Keep a digital backup or high-quality scan for reproduction purposes.

In Summary

Archival materials, proper framing, controlled environments, clean handling, safe storage, and air quality are key to longevity.

Frame behind UV-filtering glass, dust carefully, and keep prints away from extreme light and moisture.

Store originals in protective enclosures and rotate displays to reduce cumulative damage.