Best Practices for Storing Paintings in Long-Term Storage

Storing paintings for long-term self-storage can leave them marked, smudged, dirty, ripped, stretched, or damaged in numerous ways if not prepared properly. If you’re considering the best way to store paintings long-term, extra steps are essential to ensure their care and preservation.

We at Storage Protectors are here to keep your items protected while they are in storage, but we always want to inform our clients of the best practices for storing items, especially valuable pieces like paintings.

With this in mind, we’ve outlined the best tips for how to protect your paintings for long-term storage.

Top Tips For Preparing Painting For Long-Term Self-Storage

Proper preparation is essential when placing valuable paintings in storage for an extended period. With the right steps, you can ensure your artwork remains in pristine condition, free from potential damage due to handling, transport, or environmental factors. So, the tips are mentioned below:

Handling

The first thing to know is how best to handle paintings when moving them. Even taking them off the wall carelessly can lead to damage.

• Make sure your hands are clean.
• Never touch the canvas.
• Hold the painting by the frame only.
• Never lie the painting flat (except when you are wrapping it to be packed).

Packing

You should avoid wrapping paintings in cloth or furniture blankets, as these are often unclean, and any loose threads could catch on the paint, damaging the piece.

Instead, pack artwork for storage in special painting or mirror boxes. Before placing the painting in the box, wrap it, ideally in a poly-wrap (similar to tissue paper but with a plastic exterior layer). If poly-wrap is beyond your budget, fresh, clean paper can be a substitute. Avoid using newsprint, as the ink may transfer onto the canvas.

Wrap the painting well, ensuring the entire face of the canvas is covered. Stuff loose, crushed paper into the bottom of the picture box, then place the painting inside. Wedge more crushed paper along the sides and top before closing the box. This helps to keep the painting securely in place, adding extra protection.

Transport

When transporting, paintings should never travel flat, as this could result in items falling on top of them or even unintentional damage from movers. Lying flat for extended periods can also cause the canvas to sag.

For safe transport, tie the painting securely to the wall of the vehicle in an upright position, which provides stability. Upright positioning places the weight on the sturdiest parts of the box and the frame, helping prevent movement and reducing risk.

Storage

For storing paintings long term, follow the guidelines above. Because paintings are sensitive to temperature and humidity, a climate-controlled storage facility is advisable for artwork. A climate-controlled unit protects paintings from potential heat or moisture damage.

Keep artworks away from any UV light, heat, or dampness, as these can cause harm. Avoid storing paintings near appliances like refrigerators or freezers, as these may have standing water that could create moisture.

Taking these precautions will help ensure your paintings emerge from storage in the same condition they went in. Insurance on storage units is recommended, especially for valuable items like paintings. If you have questions about the best way to store paintings or want more details about insurance for storing paintings in storage,  speak with our agent today.

FAQs

What kind of paper should I use to wrap a painting?

Opt for acid-free poly-wrap or clean paper to wrap a painting. Avoid newsprint, as it can transfer ink onto the artwork. Proper wrapping is essential to store paintings safely without risking damage from unsuitable materials.

Can I place paintings near windows in storage?

Paintings should be kept away from windows or any direct UV light exposure, as this can cause fading or other damage. When storing paintings long term, keeping them in a dark, dry, and climate-controlled space is ideal.

Will a regular storage facility work for fine art?

For high-value items, a dedicated storage facility with climate control is recommended to store paintings long term. General storage spaces may not offer adequate protection from environmental risks that can affect delicate artworks.

Should I use bubble wrap to pack artwork for storage?

While bubble wrap may seem like a good option, it’s best avoided directly on the canvas, as it can leave impressions. Instead, wrap the canvas in poly-wrap or clean paper, then use bubble wrap around the frame or box when preparing to pack artwork for storage.