Help with vintage uniforms

[aljurgela]

Given the great recommendation on the scanner that I received the other day, I thought that I would pose the tough question that I have....

What is the best way to store vintage uniforms?

I have heard a number of stories that it is not good to leave them on hangers, should store them with little air, should store them with air, silica gel... etc...

Are there any special bags and/or advice that anyone has on this topic. Most of my uniforms are 1940s wool.

Thanks.

[Giants00]

I have a bunch of flannels, and the big worries are bugs and environmental damage. To deal with this, I am storing all jerseys in boxes with acid free paper and bug traps to keep bugs out. When I do display the jerseys, i keep out of direct sunlight.
That is my storage protocol.
Dan

[prichmond]

if you look at the game used universe site their is a discussion on how to store and what time of boxes should be used

Pete

[perezfan]

I like these super-clear "single jersey" garment bags. They protect against dust and moths, and completely encase/protect the jersey. Plus, they are the best for display purposes. I can hang 18- 20 jerseys on a 4' Garment Rack.

You can also use cedar hangers as an extra deterrant against moths. Hope this is helpful.

[flaco1801]

nice bags...where you buy them? thanks, jeff

[perezfan]

Kmart (of all places) had the best ones, but discontinued them. I just got some off eBay that are almost as nice. Will forward a link when i get back home.

[Big Six]

Kmart (of all places) had the best ones, but discontinued them. I just got some off eBay that are almost as nice. Will forward a link when i get back home.

Would you mind forwarding link to me, too? Thanks...Matt

[aljurgela]

Thanks guys.... do the hangers "pull on the fibers" that damage the uniform?

A couple of mine are really dirty... has anybody decided if it is a good idea to dry clean them or do so by hand.

The link to the hanging bags is appreciated!

Thanks guys.

[perezfan]

Here are some currently on ebay. These are made to hold anywhere from 1 to 5 garments at a time. I prefer the single ones for display purposes. Hope this helps....

http://www.ebay.com/itm/390371665387?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

http://www.ebay.com/itm/220786568292?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

http://www.ebay.com/itm/380370314171?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

http://www.ebay.com/itm/360239718261?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-RICHARDS-CLEAR-VINYL-SUIT-JACKETS-BAG-HANGING-438W-/230719464796?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item35b7f3a55c

[william_9]

If you're looking to store them with minimal damage, you should really use archival garment boxes lined with acid free tissue. Once you do that, just try to keep them in the most environmentally consistent rooms in your house and avoid attic or basement storage. Alternatively, there are a number of display cases with hangers that open from the front if you'd like to rotate your jerseys for display.

Personally, I'd avoid any kind of PVC storage. Soft plastics like that are known to break down and transfer harmful gasses and chemicals. A simple hanger in a clean, bug free closet should suffice if you don't want to go the full archival route. A good cotton or polyester garment case would be an upgrade to keep dust off while still allowing easy access. If you do decide to go plastic, look for mylar or clear polyester bags. Both of which are inert, stable materials. If it's archival quality, it will most likely be mentioned as it's a strong selling point.

Here are a few links to a nationwide chain. You may have a store in your area. If not, you can order online or use this info to find something that might be more suitable for your needs.

Archival garment boxes.
http://www.containerstore.com/shop?productId=10000208&N=&Ntt=archival

Hanging storage.
http://www.containerstore.com/shop/closet/closetRodStorage/garmentStorage