Aja L. Bain
What can harm textiles?
The wrong environment
Temperature and relative humidity (RH) fluctuations, or too high or low levels of either can damage textiles. Low RH can dry out fibers, making them brittle. High RH can lead to mold growth. Too much light exposure can also fade textile fibers over time.
Poor storage
If textiles are stored in acidic containers like cardboard boxes or near non-archival materials like wood, the acidity can migrate to the textile and cause discoloration and damage. Folding textiles to store them is also a problem, as it can cause permanent creases that weaken and break fibers.
Pests
Vermin like insects and rodents can be very harmful as they chew or burrow in textiles. Storing items in attics, basements, or other places where vermin live can cause irreparable damage.
Acid migration from a wooden frame used in display.
Damage from a mouse nest in a blanket.