5 Essential Tips to Preserve Your Art Prints

Proper care of art prints isn’t just an optional extra—it’s essential for anyone who invests in wall art, whether you’re a seasoned collector or decorating your first space. Prints left unprotected can yellow, fade, or warp within years, diminishing both their beauty and value. The good news is, with five straightforward best practices—careful handling, archival framing, controlled lighting, stable climate, and routine attention—you can keep your prints looking vivid and fresh for decades.

1. Handle Art Prints Safely to Prevent Damage

Always Use Clean Hands or Cotton Gloves

Every time you touch an unframed print, natural oils and dirt on your fingers can transfer to the paper fibers, causing small stains that become increasingly visible over time. To avoid this, always wash and dry your hands thoroughly or wear white cotton gloves when handling prints.

Hold Prints by the Edges Only

Even pressure from your fingertips can create indentations or tiny creases. By grasping prints along the very edges, you eliminate the risk of surface damage. When passing a print to someone else, communicate this edge‑only approach.

2. Use Archival Framing & UV‑Protective Glass

Choose Acid‑Free Mats and Backing

Standard framing materials often contain acids that, over time, migrate into the paper and cause yellowing or brittleness. Always specify acid‑free (archival) mat board and backing to create a stable, inert environment around your print.

Install UV‑Filtering Glass or Acrylic

Ultraviolet light is the principal culprit in ink and pigment fading. By choosing UV‑filtering glass or acrylic, you can block up to 99% of harmful rays without noticeably changing color or clarity. This simple upgrade dramatically slows down the aging process.

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3. Minimize Light Exposure to Avoid Fading

Avoid Direct Sunlight and Harsh Artificial Lighting

Even indirect daylight through windows carries UV content. Position your prints away from south or west-facing windows, and use LED bulbs (which emit minimal UV) for room lighting.

Consider Window Films or Sheer Curtains

If relocation isn’t possible, apply a UV-blocking window film or install sheer curtains to diffuse sunlight. These inexpensive solutions can reduce UV transmission by up to 80%, extending the life of your displayed prints.

4. Maintain Stable Humidity & Temperature

Ideal Climate Conditions for Prints

Fluctuating humidity causes paper to expand and contract, leading to waviness or “cockling.” Aim for a relative humidity (RH) of 40–60% and temperatures between 65–75°F (18–24°C) for optimal stability.

Tools to Control Indoor Climate

In humid regions, a dehumidifier can keep moisture in check; in dry climates, a humidifier prevents brittleness. A basic hygrometer will help you monitor conditions and make adjustments before issues arise.

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5. Rotate, Inspect & Store Prints Properly

Rotate Displays Every Few Months

By moving prints out of display and replacing them with others, you prevent any single piece from bearing the full brunt of light and environmental stress. This rotation practice also refreshes your décor and renews appreciation for each artwork.

Inspect for Damage & Pest Infestation

Every time you rotate, look for early signs of fading, discoloration, or tiny pinholes that suggest insect activity. Early detection allows you to take corrective steps before irreversible harm occurs.

Store Unframed Prints Flat in Archival Boxes

When not on display, keep prints flat—never rolled—for long‑term storage. Acid-free archival boxes or portfolios protect them from dust, light, and physical folds. Label each box clearly to avoid unnecessary handling.

Conclusion

By adopting these five expert tips—careful handling, archival framing, light management, climate control, and routine rotation—you safeguard both the vibrant colors and structural integrity of your art prints.

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