Showcase maintenance and upkeep: extending the life of museum collections

The care and maintenance of display cases is crucial to extending the life of museum collections. Here are some suggestions to help ensure that your display case and the collection within it remain in tip-top shape:

Temperature and humidity control: Maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity is the key to maintenance of showcases. Consistent temperature and humidity prevent collections from expanding or contracting due to humidity fluctuations, thereby reducing damage.

Light control: Avoid direct sunlight on the display cabinets and reduce the use of artificial light sources. Light can cause collection colors to fade and materials to deteriorate.

Dust prevention measures: Clean the display cabinet surface and glass regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt. Especially for display cabinets with opening parts, regular inspection and cleaning are necessary.

Material selection: When selecting display cabinet materials, consider their impact on the collection. Use harmless materials and avoid materials containing acidic substances to avoid corrosive effects on the collection.

Regular inspection: Regularly check the structure and sealing performance of the showcase. Make sure there are no air or water leaks to prevent moisture from invading the interior of the showcase.

Safety protection: Set up appropriate safety measures around the showcase to prevent unnecessary touching or accidental collisions. This helps reduce scratches or damage to the surface of the showcase.

Fire Suppression Systems: Install appropriate fire suppression systems to respond to emergencies. Ensure that the fire suppression system does not cause additional damage to the collection.

Train staff: Train museum staff on proper display case care and handling. They should know how to respond to emergencies and take appropriate measures.

These suggestions will help ensure that both the display case and collection are well protected, extending their life and remaining in their original condition.