Store Video Tapes and Cassettes

Maybe you feel these are going the way of the dodo but there are many good memories on some video and sound cassettes around the world and it is likely that some of us are going to be hoarding these cassettes instead of converting the movies and images to more modern versions!

If that is the case for you, or you are hanging on to some vintage goodies for other reasons, here is how to take care of them. And for those who still have cassette tapes, this version will apply to them as well.

Steps

 * 1) Keep the videos and cassettes in a dust-free environment. Keep them in their original containers. If this is not possible, make new containers out of thin cardboard or paper. Cassettes can be stored in shoe boxes with the lid on top.
 * 2)  Keep out of strong light or direct sunlight.
 * 3)  Avoid sudden changes in humidity. Basically this means that it is not a good idea to throw them into the garage or shed for storage, where temperature regulation is poor.
 * 4)  Store video tapes upright in their containers.
 * 5)  Keep videos and cassettes stored away from items that might wipe the recorded information. This includes electrical motors, TV sets and electrical appliances. This is more important for long-term storage of irreplaceable memories on videos and cassettes.
 * 6)  Rewind the videos and cassettes. This will ensure that they are ready for use each time.
 * 7)  Play all the way through. When playing a video or cassette, always play to the end. This helps to ensure even play, rather than wearing out a more popular section of the tape.
 * 8)  Keep all playing equipment clean and well maintained.

Tips

 * If the information is really precious, give serious consideration to having it transferred to a digital or other modern storage format instead. For example, you can easily connect your PC to a cassette recorder to make a copy on your PC in mp3 (or other) format
 * You might be able to find old cassette storage cases in a thrift store - these are neat little cases that can fit many cassette tapes and keep the dust off. They are harder to find nowadays because few people keep their cassette tapes.

Things You'll Need

 * Dust jackets or covers
 * Even, dry storage environment