Storing maps properly is one of the simplest ways to protect their value, color, and structural integrity. Whether you collect antique charts, mid‑century road maps, or modern prints, the right storage materials make all the difference. This guide explains why archival‑safe tubes matter. It shows you how to choose the right ones. Additionally, it teaches you how to prepare your maps for long‑term preservation.
Why Tube Material Matters
Most hardware‑store tubes are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or vinyl. These materials release acids and plasticizers as they age. These chemicals migrate into paper, causing:
- Yellowing and discoloration
- Brittleness
- Sticky or wavy surfaces
- Permanent staining
This damage can be irreversible for historical maps. These include especially pre‑1900 rag paper, early wood‑pulp paper, or hand‑colored sheets.
Archival‑safe tubes avoid all of these risks.
The Three Archival‑Safe Materials to Look For
- Polyethylene (PE) Tubes
- Chemically inert
- No plasticizers
- Pass the Photographic Activity Test (PAT)
- Used by museums for rolled documents
- 2. Polypropylene (PP) Tubes
- Very stable and rigid
- Ideal for long‑term storage
- Often used for archival‑safe end caps
- 3. Acid‑Free Paperboard Tubes
- Lignin‑free
- Buffered to resist acidity
- Good for short‑to‑medium‑term storage
- Lightweight and inexpensive
Recommended Reputable Suppliers of Archival‑Safe Tubes
These suppliers of archival‑safe tubes are widely used by museums, libraries, and conservation professionals:
- Gaylord Archival
Offers polyethylene and polypropylene tubes in multiple diameters, plus acid‑free storage boxes. - University Products
Known for PAT‑approved plastics and museum‑grade enclosures. - Hollinger Metal Edge
Excellent for acid‑free paperboard tubes and flat storage boxes. - Talas (NYC)
High‑end conservation materials, including polyester film and custom‑cut tubes.
How to Prepare a Map for Tube Storage
Step 1 – Clean Hands, Clean Workspace
Wash hands or use nitrile gloves. Avoid lotions or oils.
Step 2 – Interleave with Archival Tissue
Place a sheet of acid‑free, unbuffered tissue on the map before rolling. This prevents abrasion and ink transfer.
Step 3 – Roll With the Image Outward
Keep the printed side facing outward while rolling. Doing this reduces stress on the pigments. It also reduces stress on the paper fibers.
Step 4 – Choose the Right Tube Diameter
Use a tube at least 2–3 inches wider than the rolled map.
Tighter rolls = more stress = more cracking.
Step 5 – Use Archival‑Safe End Caps
Avoid PVC caps. Use polypropylene or acid‑free board caps.
Step 6 – Add Silica Gel (Optional)
A small, conditioned silica packet helps stabilize humidity inside the tube.
Labeling and Storing the Archival‑Safe Tubes
Label Clearly
Use a pencil or archival‑safe pen on acid‑free labels.
Avoid adhesive labels directly on the tube unless they are archival‑safe.
Store Horizontally
Vertical storage causes maps to slump and flatten unevenly.
Avoid Attics, Garages, and Basements
Ideal conditions:
- Temperature: 65–70°F
- Relative humidity: 35–50%
- No direct sunlight
When to Consider Flat Storage Instead
Flat storage is the gold standard for:
- Fragile or brittle maps
- Hand‑colored maps
- Oversized sheets
- Maps with cracking or flaking pigments
Use: - Acid‑free folders
- Lignin‑free interleaving
- Metal flat files (museum standard)
Quick Archival‑Safe Tubes Comparison Table
| Storage Method | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| PE/PP Archival Tubes | Rolled storage, frequent handling | Safe, durable, PAT‑approved | Requires rolling |
| Acid‑Free Paperboard Tubes | Short‑term storage, budget setups | Lightweight, inexpensive | Less durable long‑term |
| Flat Storage (Boxes/Drawers) | Valuable or fragile maps | Best preservation, no rolling | Requires more space |
This keeps their maps safe for decades — and preserves both historical and monetary value.