Storage

[Dralowid]

I have a few cameras that I'd like to keep that really don't get used any more. For the last couple of years they have sat on a shelf.

I've recently come across some plastic boxes with tight lids that are the right size for them and I wonder...

Should I store the cameras in virtually airtight boxes with a silica gel pack in each or do you reckon they are better kept in normal indoor conditions?

I know, I know, I should sell them but...

 

[santino]

My non scietific approach: natural air flow is essential.

 

[Glenn2]

What ever you do don’t store cameras in leather cases. They’re mold and fungus havens. Put a case on if you need it while using the camera, but long term storage, naked. This was advice from the late Horst Wetzel well known Leica expert and repairman.
Nothing wrong with a dry box and silica gel. That’s how I used to store stuff, especially when my science work took me to sea.
Once you’ve seen what moist sea air can do to metal you become very careful.

A local friend has his cameras on display in a glass case, with no cases, will ask if he uses silica gel.

 

[Retro-Grouch]

I would be worried about off-gassing. I use plastic boxes for storage, but, on the advice of my repair tech, only food grade storage boxes because of that concern. Tupperware is good.

 

[CMur12]

I would be worried about off-gassing. I use plastic boxes for storage, but, on the advice of my repair tech, only food grade storage boxes because of that concern. Tupperware is good.

I think this is a very good point, as it would concern me, also.

Beyond that, storing cameras with silica gel would depend upon your climate. I live in an area of low humidity, semi-desert, so there would be no point to using silica gel. If your cameras have been fine on the shelf without it, there may be no need where you live, either.

I might be more inclined to store the cameras in a cardboard box with other items, such as books, that would help to maintain a stable and harmless level of humidity, more like what they had on the shelf.

- Murray