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September 15, 2009
Documents in Humid Basement
Any advice on keeping paper files in a humid basement? Keeping the records in our co-op member's apartment is becoming a space constrained, but protecting the documents is also important.
Comments
Put them in plastic containers that close tight & maybe add one of those dessicating bags.
Posted by: Arkady at September 15, 2009 3:40 PM
I tried all sorts of things to store my files in the basement of our place which wasn't even that humid - big mistake.
I have learned my lesson and now, rather than storing my paper files, if possible I just scan and store it all on a Network Access Storage device (and make DVD backups). Just a thought - scanning can be a great trick to get around paper constraints.
There are some really small/slick scanners like the Fujitsu Scansnap series that are really great at making quick work of paper.
So now recent paper files I keep locally, rest are scanned and then shredded. Keeping paper storage needs down.
Posted by: sunspot19 at September 15, 2009 9:28 PM
I like that solution too but sometimes they want paper and I am actually not sure about legally for some things- they want originals. But like Arkady says- tight plastic bins and definitely have the dessicant bags. Make sure you change it out every so often. You could also try that crystal pearl kitty litter which is actually dessicant. works out cheaper if you need a lot.
Posted by: bxgrl at September 16, 2009 9:45 AM
How about using a really good dehumidifier? That's what we do and we never have a moisture problem.
It's always a good idea to have one of them in a basement anyway.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at September 16, 2009 11:38 AM
Hello
ever see the air tight vacume bags on Tv they show them as space saving for clothes.
I have used them upstate in a damp storage area and they have been fine over the
past year.
Posted by: bearn96 at September 18, 2009 11:45 PM
Using a desiccant in an airtight plastic bin is a great way to protect papers from moisture. The key is to make sure you have fresh, active desiccant. There is a site online that sells them, I use them to keep vitamins and dried food fresh (which can be a challenge in Florida) and they have packets that would also work well for keeping papers dry. The site is http://www.silicagelpackets.com/. They have indicating packets that have beads that change color and let you know when a new packet is needed. Hope this helps.
Posted by: NomadicMom at September 22, 2009 11:39 AM
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