To safely store your packaged collection, choose an area that is clean, dust free, fairly dark and maintained at a stable temperature and humidity level i.e. not too dry or damp, not too hot or cold. Where possible the area chosen should also be fairly well ventilated to inhibit mould growth. Areas inside the house, such as under the bed or at the bottom of a chest of drawers, can be suitable but avoid areas that are close to water pipes, heaters and food. Storing records near external walls should also be avoided, as these areas have high fluctuations in temperature and humidity. In flood prone areas; try to place things above known flood levels.

Non-paper based materials, such as family videos, coins, medals, gramophone records and textile materials, require similar storage conditions as described above. Excessive heat and humidity, insect attack and light are again the main concerns for these types of media. Textiles, fur and leather are susceptible to mould growth in humid conditions and insect attack, and wood has a tendency to crack in dry conditions. Textiles fade in light, high temperature ruins videotapes, and metal corrodes in humid/wet conditions.

It is important to make an effort to inspect the storage area regularly so that any problems can be dealt with quickly. Try to look inside boxes or containers at least every 6 to 12 months.

Access to collections for pleasure or inspection is important, but try to avoid excessive handling of your historical material. One way to minimise direct handling of items is by storing them in inert polyester sleeves. These glass clear products allow you to view each item without touching its surface, and they are especially useful for photographs and paper-based items. If you have to handle the materials make sure your hands are really clean, dry and free from moisturiser or wear white cotton gloves (available from Memory Boxes).

Support fragile or oversized records carefully with board or paper whilst handling or moving. Be particularly careful with large items which have been tightly rolled, as any attempt to force them flat will certainly cause damage. Don't place food or drinks nearby, and use pencil rather than pens or ink markers to take notes.

If you want to display any of your records, consider having good quality copies made and to display the copies rather than originals. Even short periods of exposure to light can cause severe fading and deterioration. Watercolours are particularly susceptible to fading caused by light, as there is very little pigment in the paint medium. Colour photographs will also not last as long as black and white prints and copies for the same reason.

If you must display originals, have them mounted and framed by a reliable, quality framer using archival materials. Choose a place to hang them that does not receive direct sunlight or strong artificial light. If you suspect that they may be fading, remove them from display immediately. Areas above or near fireplaces where there is heat should never be used for displaying items.

Even if you don't intend to display originals, it is still a good idea to have them copied, especially if they are very old, fragile, unusual or historically significant. Making digital (scanned) images of documents and records can provide an alternate means of accessing materials without handling.