Whether you’re an artist, collector, or the inheritor of a treasured painting or sculpture, properly storing artwork is essential to protecting your investment. Climate-controlled storage units offer safe, secure places to protect your favorite pieces, but there are several important steps to take before locking up the items. Have a look at the tips below to keep your artwork in perfect condition.

How to Prepare Artwork for Storage

1. Clean It

Cleaning methods will depend on the type and medium of your artwork. Use a sable paintbrush 5 centimeters in width or a clean piece of velvet to gently remove dust from the surface of a painting. Don’t use household cleaning rags, paper towels, or feather dusters, as these can be too rough on the paint or may make it dirtier. Similarly, avoid using household cleaning sprays to prevent permanent damage.

Dust metal, wood, and stone with a clean microfiber cloth and apply wood or metal polish to frames to prevent rust and scuffing. Ask a professional gallerist or appraiser for advice on protecting sculptures before placing them in storage.

2. Consult a Professional for Packing Advice

Many people wrap items in plastic wrap to protect them from dust, impacts, and moisture in storage. For artwork, however, this is typically not advisable. Plastic wrap can trap moisture and mold spores and lead to irreversible damage. 

Since the best way to protect a piece of art will depend on the materials it contains, ask an expert for advice on which items will best protect your work. They'll likely recommend acid-free paper or other materials to avoid unnecessary damage. 

3. Store Items Carefully

Always place artwork upright on top of stable surfaces. Stacking fragile items such as finely detailed statuary or paintings on top of one another will place them under excessive strain and may cause them to break or degrade. Instead, place framed images in an elevated painting rack, and store three-dimensional items in sturdy crates to protect them.

Concrete floors can trap moisture even in climate-controlled storage units, so avoid placing items directly on the ground. Maintaining a temperature of about 70 degrees and a humidity level of around 55% will create a safe climate for most pieces.

When you need secure, climate-controlled storage to safely contain your prized artworks, turn to West Village Mini Storage in Little Rock, AR. Backed by over 35 years of experience, they offer units in a wide range of sizes to suit your storage needs and budget. Your items will be kept safe, accessible, and intact with their comprehensive security system and well-lit premises. Call (501) 224-2028 to speak with a team member, or visit them online to learn more about their facility.