Preserve Your Family Treasures
Explore these links to learn about caring for your heirlooms.
Textiles
When storing quilts, clothing, needlework, and other antique textiles, choose an area that has the most stable environment, such as the main living area in your home. Basements can be damp, causing mold and mildew. more
Furniture
All of us have some type of furniture in our homes, and many of us have older furniture that has been passed down through generations or purchased at antique stores and auctions. The main risk factors faced by furniture come from people and the environment. more
China & Glassware
Unlike most other heirlooms, glass and ceramics are not much affected by temperature, humidity, and light. Their biggest risk is from accidents caused by people handling them. Damage also can be caused by improper storage techniques. more
Documents & Photographs
Basic preservation practices will ensure that Kansas' valuable documentary resources -- family papers and photos, business records, videotapes, digital materials -- will be accessible to future generations of Kansans. more
For information on potentially hazardous materials, visit Stanford University's Environmental Health & Safety website.
The Store sells the following books on this topic:
- Caring For Your Collections, edited by Arthur W. Schultz, National Institute for the Conservation of Cultural Property (Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Publishers, 1992).
- Caring For Your Family Treasures, by Jane S. Long and Richard W. Long (Harry N. Abrams, Inc., Publishers, 2000).
- Handle With Care: Preserving Your Heirlooms, by Nancy Davis (Rochester Museum and Science Center, 1991).