Compare the 6 Best Archival Storage Boxes for Your Precious Memories

As a Family Photo Keeper, you understand the importance of preserving family photos, heirlooms and cherished memories. During the sorting and organizing phase, any box will do—even old Amazon boxes! However, for long-term storage, it’s best to use the best archival storage boxes so that your precious memories won’t be damaged and will last for generations. The options for archival storage can be overwhelming, but don’t worry, I’ve done the research for you. Although the products I’m comparing can all be found on Amazon, you may also be able to find them elsewhere.

What Makes The Best Archival Storage Boxes the Best?

The best archival storage boxes meet certain standards set by the ISO, the International Organization for Standardization. The International Standards published by ISO serve to make lives easier, safer and better. Using storage containers that meet the ISO standards is the best way to store printed photos long-term.

The standards that apply to the best archival storage boxes are:

• ISO 9706 specifies the requirements for permanent paper intended for documents given in terms of minimum strength measured by a tear test, minimum content of substance (such as calcium carbonate) that neutralize acid action measured by the alkali reserve, maximum content of easily oxidized material measured by the kappa number, maximum and minimum pH values of a cold water extract of the paper. It is applicable to unprinted papers.
• ISO 18902 specifies the principal physical and chemical requirements for album, storage and framing materials to prevent damage to processed or printed imaging materials over time. It covers requirements for paper and paperboard, plastics, metals, writing instruments, adhesives, tapes, self-adhesive labelling materials, stamping inks and pads, framing and glazing materials used as, or in the construction of, storage and display materials for black-and-white or color reflection prints or negatives made with traditional silver-halide and silver dye bleach photographic materials, or dye- and pigment-based inkjet, dye diffusion thermal transfer (“dye sublimation”), and liquid- and dry-toner electrophotographic digital prints.
• ISO 16245 specifies requirements for boxes and file covers made of cellulosic material to be used for long-term storage of non-photographic items. This document is applicable to boxes made of solid or corrugated board and to file covers and other enclosures made of paper or board. This can also be applicable to other types of enclosures for long term storage such as cases, portfolios, tubes and envelopes made of cellulosic material.
• Rag content refers to paper made from cotton cuttings. Since cotton is naturally pH neutral, 100-percent rag content paper is acid-free and of archival quality without any additional chemical treatment. For this reason, there is no ISO standard for items made from rag content as they need no additional processing to make them safe for archival storage.

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Best Archival Storage Boxes on Amazon

Although I have one button on my Amazon Prime Days page that leads to a mix of brands, let’s break down a few of the top brands on Amazon and what sets them apart from each other so you can make the best choice for you and your precious memories:

Archival Methods

These boxes are made right here in the USA using acid-free and lignin-free materials. Lignin is a wood protein that doesn’t age well, causing papers to turn yellow and become brittle over time. Archival Methods boxes are also ISO 9706 certified. This standard specifies the requirements for permanent paper intended for documents, including minimum strength and maximum pH values.

Golden State Art

These California-made boxes are top-notch. They use 100% rag content materials, meaning the paper is made from cotton cuttings, which are naturally pH neutral and acid-free without any additional chemical treatment. Golden State Art boxes are also certified to meet the ISO 16245 standard, which specifies requirements for boxes and file covers made of cellulosic material for long-term storage.

Gaylord

A big name in archival supplies, Gaylord boxes meet the Library of Congress standards and are available in a wide range of sizes. They have manufacturing facilities in the US and Canada, ensuring high-quality products.

Lineco

Another American manufacturer with a strong reputation, Lineco products are pH neutral and feature great specialty boxes for odd-sized items.

Kolo

Based in Oregon, this family-owned business offers boxes with a beautiful, modern aesthetic. Kolo uses sustainable forestry practices, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Pioneer

Pioneer is a classic brand that’s been around for ages. Their boxes are affordably priced, but the quality isn’t always as consistent as some of the other options. They’re made in both the US and overseas.

Other Types of Archival Storage Containers

Archival storage boxes for photos are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to preserving your treasured memories. If you have keepsakes, documents, or other items that need long-term storage, there are several other archival storage containers available on Amazon:

Document Storage Boxes

Ideal for preserving important papers, such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and old letters, these boxes are typically acid-free and lignin-free. Some top brands include Gaylord, Lineco, and Archival Methods. Document storage boxes come in a range of sizes and are designed to protect your papers from environmental factors like light, dust, and moisture.

Keepsake Boxes

For those special mementos like jewelry, medals, or baby shoes, archival keepsake boxes are a great option. Brands like Pioneer and Gaylord offer sturdy, acid-free boxes that can keep your keepsakes safe for generations. Some boxes even come with compartments or trays to help organize smaller items.

Scrapbook Storage

Scrapbooks often contain a mix of photos, papers, and other materials. To preserve these cherished collections, look for archival scrapbook storage options from brands like Golden State Art and Lineco. These storage solutions are designed to protect your scrapbooks from damage while keeping them easily accessible.

Specialty Boxes for Odd-Sized Items

If you have items that don’t fit neatly into standard boxes, specialty archival boxes are available. Lineco and Gaylord offer a range of boxes in various shapes and sizes to accommodate everything from large documents to small collectibles. These specialty boxes are typically pH neutral and acid-free, providing optimal protection for your unique items.

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Tips for Choosing the Best Archival Storage Boxes

When selecting archival storage boxes, there are a few key factors to consider:

• Material: Ensure the boxes are made from acid-free and lignin-free materials to prevent yellowing and brittleness over time.
• Certification: Look for certifications like ISO 9706, ISO 18902, and ISO 16245, which indicate the boxes meet stringent standards for archival quality.
• Size and Shape: Choose boxes that fit the items you need to store. Specialty boxes are available for odd-sized items.
• Brand Reputation: Opt for brands with a strong reputation for quality and durability, such as Archival Methods, Golden State Art, and Gaylord.

My Recommendations

Personally, I lean towards either Archival Methods or Golden State Art for the best archival storage boxes. The quality, certifications, and US-based manufacturing give me peace of mind when it comes to preserving my family’s precious memories. Whether you’re storing photos, documents, or keepsakes, investing in the best archival storage boxes is a crucial step in ensuring your cherished items remain safe and protected for years to come.

You can see what else I recommend for your photo organizing project on Amazon here.