How To Store Artwork and Paintings

From abstract art to realism, all types of artwork and paintings deserve proper storage, especially when so much time and effort were put into them. Thankfully, we’ll show you the best ways to store them in this guide. Whether you are an artist, a collector, or just want to keep your artwork in great shape, these tips will help your pieces last for years!

Why Proper Artwork Storage Matters

If you don’t store your artwork the right way, it can get ruined. Paintings can bend, fade, grow mold, or get scratched if they aren’t guarded. That’s why it’s vital to know how to properly store your paintings and art pieces, so they stay in good shape for a long time.

The Risks of Improper Storage

Storing your artwork the wrong way can expose it to serious problems. Changes in humidity and temperature can make paintings warp or crack. Direct sunlight can cause colors to fade or change. Dust, bugs, and dirty air can stain or harm your art, while stacking pieces on top of each other can bend or break them over time.

Who Needs Painting Storage Solutions?

Painting storage isn’t just for museums or galleries. You might need a place for your artwork if you’re an artist with a small workspace, someone who collects and changes out their art, or if you’re moving or fixing up your home. You may also want to keep special paintings you bought or were given.

Preparing Your Artwork for Storage

Before putting your artwork away into storage, it’s important to prepare it properly beforehand to minimize any exposure to the elements that can cause deterioration.

Cleaning and Inspecting Your Art

To prepare for artwork storage, make sure you gently dust each painting with a soft, dry brush or a microfiber cloth. You never want to use water or cleaning products unless you know it’s all right for your medium. Also, look closely at your work for problems like mold, signs of bugs or deterioration, and loose framing or canvas.

Labeling and Cataloging

If you plan on storing more than just a few pieces of artwork, then it’s a good idea to keep a list of your storage items, whether digital or written. This list should include photos of each piece and any notes about its condition, just in case you see any significant differences after storage.

You can even include its size and the materials used if needed. This information will help you keep track of your artwork and find specific pieces when you need them for an upcoming art gallery or showcase.

Choosing the Right Artwork Storage Box

A row of tall cardboard boxes of various sizes packed tightly together.

Pick the right artwork storage to keep your paintings in good condition. It’s important to look for boxes made with non-acid or archival materials. This will help keep your art from fading or yellowing over time. Use soft padding and corner protectors with your chosen box to avoid scratches or bending from appearing.

Best Environmental Conditions for Artwork Storage

Climate plays a significant role in maintaining artwork integrity. Whether you’re using a home space or an artwork warehouse, keep their conditions in mind.

Climate Control and Artwork Storage

To keep your artwork in good condition, it’s important to store it in a place where the temperature and humidity stay the same. Try to keep the temperature between 65° F and 75° F, and the humidity between 40% and 50%. If the air gets too hot, cold, or damp, your paintings might bend, crack, or grow mildew.

Choosing the Right Storage Space

Not all storage units are equal, especially when it comes to art. Choosing the right storage facility provides peace of mind.

Home Storage vs. Professional Artwork Warehouse

Storing art at home might be all right briefly, but it usually doesn’t have the right temperature or defense from bugs. Artwork warehouses are special places made just for storing art, as they have people who know how to handle art carefully. Using a warehouse like this can be a wise choice if you have large or expensive amounts of artwork.

What To Look for in a Self Storage Facility

Choose a storage facility that offers:

Modern, climate-controlled storage units
24/7 secure access
Clean, brightly lit spaces designed for peace of mind
Drive-up access or elevators for larger pieces
Responsive customer service
Flexible storage unit sizes to accommodate single paintings or large collections

Long-Term Storage Tips for Paintings and Artwork

Take additional precautions if you plan to store pieces for months or years.

How To Store Painting Canvas and Framed Pieces

To keep your paintings in good condition in storage, use soft spacers or foam board so the canvases don’t touch each other. If your artwork is framed, stand it up straight and put cardboard between each piece to stop them from rubbing together.

Never put paintings right on the floor, especially if it’s concrete. Instead, place them on shelves or wooden pallets to keep them off the ground and away from moisture.

Vertical vs. Horizontal Storage

Storing artwork vertically is usually better for framed paintings and stretched canvases because it keeps the heavy weight and pressure off the surface. If you need to store items flat, only with strong, stiff pieces that won’t bend. Make sure to place soft, protective layers between each one to keep them from getting scratched or damaged.

Using Storage Artwork Racks or Shelving

To keep your artwork in good condition, it’s a good idea to use padded racks or shelves. These help keep your paintings off the floor and standing upright, which shields them from moisture and bending. Make sure the racks have soft padding so the frames don’t get scratched.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to slip up. Avoid these common mistakes when handling and storing your artwork.

Skipping Protective Wrapping

Always layer your artwork with some kind of protective covering before storage. If you leave it uncovered, the surface can be harmed by dust, air, or even rubbing against other things. Over time, this can lead to faded colors, scratches, or spots on your painting.

Using the Wrong Storage Boxes

It’s best not to use regular cardboard boxes or plastic wrap when storing your artwork. Cardboard can break down over time, and plastic wrap can trap moisture, which might cause mold or harm your painting. Instead, special artwork storage boxes should be made just to keep art.