Prevention better than cure

Example of mould damage

As I write this in early April, it’s shaping up to be a very humid month in Tauranga. And with winter conditions around the corner, it could be a good time to look at where and how your family’s material history is stored and, if you can, work towards making improvements.

Often items that connect to our past are stored just wherever space is available, and this can include garages or sheds that are damp and prone to water damage. If space can be found inside your home, preferably not under a bed or at the bottom of a wardrobe, then these items have a much better chance of being passed onto the next generation – particularly if they are popped inside a box with acid free tissue!

However, if you find your precious objects have been soaked, there are a few simple things you can do to prevent further damage. In the case of your mother’s wedding dress, or other delicate textiles, do not unfold if wet. Instead, place on a clean towel or sheet and gently blot the garment to remove excess water. Keeping the item flat, air dry inside the house using fans or air conditioning. If your object is not dry after 24 hours monitor regularly for mould growth.

Silverfish damage

Your childhood diary, or other precious books, may need to be rinsed before drying. Do this with clean water holding the book closed. Books that are damp or partially wet can be air dried standing on their end with covers opened to 90 degrees. If very wet the book should be air dried flat. Interleave approximately 20 per cent of the pages with absorbent material until dry. Be careful not to over do this, as damage to the spine will occur. If there are too many books to deal with within 48 hours they can be covered and frozen in sturdy containers with the spine down.

Freezing is a useful method to minimize damage and give you time to deal with a large number of objects. It prevents mould growth and protects material that would be permanently damaged if wet for any length of time. However, be careful as many items should not be frozen. This includes paintings, furniture, metals, musical instruments and electronics. If you are unsure what to do, don’t attempt anything until you have received professional advice.

At the end of the day it may be easier to think about where your treasures are currently stored and, if you need to, move them to a clean, dry, stable environment preferably off the ground.