If you’ve decided to digitize your old VHS tapes or film reels, you’re already taking the most important step to preserving your family’s memories. But what about the time before you send them in for conversion? Whether you’re preparing for your order with The Digitize Center or just found a stash in the attic, proper short-term storage can make a big difference.
Here’s how to safely store your old media before digitizing, so you don’t lose a single frame of your family’s history.
🎞️ Why Proper Storage Matters
Magnetic tapes and film reels are fragile by nature. Over time, they can:
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Deteriorate due to heat, humidity, or mold
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Suffer from magnetic loss or tape warping
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Break down from physical damage or exposure to light
Storing your tapes and reels correctly—even for just a few weeks or months—helps ensure we can transfer the best possible quality when you send them in to be digitized.
🧊 1. Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Avoid attics, basements, or garages. The ideal storage environment is:
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Temperature: Around 60–70°F (15–21°C)
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Humidity: 30–50% relative humidity
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Avoid: Direct sunlight, radiators, or areas with frequent temperature swings
A closet in your main living space is usually a safe bet.
📦 2. Use Proper Containers
If you still have the original cases for your VHS tapes or film reels, use them! If not:
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Store tapes upright (like books), not flat
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Use plastic storage bins with lids to protect from dust and moisture
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Avoid rubber bands or plastic wrap—they can stick or melt over time
For extra protection, add silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture.
🧼 3. Handle With Care
When sorting your tapes and reels:
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Hold tapes by the edges—avoid touching the actual film or tape
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Keep labels intact (they help us identify formats during digitization)
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Don’t try to clean or rewind damaged reels—let the pros handle that
If a reel or tape feels fragile, leave it untouched. We use gentle equipment designed to safely handle delicate or aging media.
🧾 4. Label Everything
Before sending your items to The Digitize Center, it helps to:
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Write names, dates, or events on a sticky note (not directly on the tape or reel)
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Group items by format: VHS, Hi8, 8mm film, etc.
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Include any special instructions for us (like if there’s something specific you'd like prioritized)
This helps our team keep your memories organized and makes your digital files easier to navigate later.
📬 5. Pack Carefully When Shipping
Once you’re ready to digitize with us, we provide a prepaid Digitize Kit with protective packaging. But if you're packing on your own:
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Use bubble wrap to cushion your tapes and reels
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Avoid overstuffing the box
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Include your order number or contact info inside the package
Safe transit = safe memories.
🎁 Bonus Tip: Don’t Wait Too Long
Even if your tapes look fine on the outside, the contents are still aging. Every year you wait increases the risk of data loss or total breakdown.
Digitizing your tapes with The Digitize Center is the best way to protect them forever—and we make it simple, safe, and secure.