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I have read a number of the posts here regarding storing jerseys and thought I would add the following for folks to consider.
For starters, reading that folks spray their jerseys with chemicals like frebreeze is rather shocking, since doing so will likely harm the jersey in the long run. Frebreeze is a chemical spray and spraying any chemical on a jersey will damage it long term.
The Container Store sells achival garment boxes and acid-free tissue paper to allow you to properly store your items. They also have a quick and helpful section on storing textiles (note that many articles refer to wedding dresses and the like, just replace textiles and gowns with jerseys and the results are the same - long term protection):
The term “archival quality†is a term used to designate materials or products that are permanent, durable, and/or chemically stable, and, therefore, can be safely used for preservation purposes. The objective of Archival Garment Storage is to protect textiles from their two main enemies: the ultraviolet rays found in sunlight and acid from sources such as skin, wood and wood-based products (paper). Here are some tips for protecting your most cherished textiles.
Another site, Vintage Textile, has a very extensive article on storing textiles properly and safely that is totally appropriate for jersey collecting and very helpful:
This site has a focus on antique textiles and clothing but again, most of this easily applies to jersey collecting as well, especially info about storage though most of our jerseys are partly or entirely made of man-made materials and being 25 years or newer (generally) have a lot of life left in them if properly stored:
For starters, reading that folks spray their jerseys with chemicals like frebreeze is rather shocking, since doing so will likely harm the jersey in the long run. Frebreeze is a chemical spray and spraying any chemical on a jersey will damage it long term.
The Container Store sells achival garment boxes and acid-free tissue paper to allow you to properly store your items. They also have a quick and helpful section on storing textiles (note that many articles refer to wedding dresses and the like, just replace textiles and gowns with jerseys and the results are the same - long term protection):
The term “archival quality†is a term used to designate materials or products that are permanent, durable, and/or chemically stable, and, therefore, can be safely used for preservation purposes. The objective of Archival Garment Storage is to protect textiles from their two main enemies: the ultraviolet rays found in sunlight and acid from sources such as skin, wood and wood-based products (paper). Here are some tips for protecting your most cherished textiles.
- For the utmost in protection for cherished wedding or christening gowns or heirloom textiles, use Garment Archival Storage boxes. They’re constructed from acid-free materials crafted into solid, secure boxes that resist dust, dirt and light infiltration. Our Garment Archival Boxes also include Acid-Free Tissue.
- Before storing the item, have it professionally dry cleaned or laundered, paying special attention to sugar-based stains that, if left untreated, will attract insects and speed deterioration of the fibers containing the stain.
- Stuff garments with Acid-Free Tissue to help retain the shape and prevent fiber breakage — be certain to stuff tissue in the arms of the garment as well. Completely wrap the entire surface area of the garment in Acid-Free Tissue as well so that no part is exposed. Remove cardboard inserts, bodices, and supports that can create strain on the fabric (and which contain acid that can yellow the fabric.) Be certain to get rid of any non-archival tissue paper.
- For wedding gowns in particular, storing the veil in the box with the dress is acceptable, but the two must not touch each other. Plastic, wire and trim on the headpiece or veil could damage the gown. It’s best to store shoes and crinolines separately from the dress and veil to prevent damage.
- Fold textiles such as tablecloths, napkins or quilts with Acid-Free Tissue between each layer, completely covering the exterior surface.
Another site, Vintage Textile, has a very extensive article on storing textiles properly and safely that is totally appropriate for jersey collecting and very helpful:
This site has a focus on antique textiles and clothing but again, most of this easily applies to jersey collecting as well, especially info about storage though most of our jerseys are partly or entirely made of man-made materials and being 25 years or newer (generally) have a lot of life left in them if properly stored:
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