Old 8mm and 16mm film reels are more than relics — they’re fragile pieces of family history. Whether it’s your grandparents’ wedding or your dad’s childhood birthday party, preserving these reels properly is the key to keeping those memories alive for generations.
At Digify, we help families across the UAE digitize and restore their precious reels. But if you’re storing them at home before bringing them in, here’s how to protect them from time, heat, and decay.
1. Keep Them Cool and Dry
Why it matters:
Heat and humidity are your film’s worst enemies. High temperatures speed up chemical decay like vinegar syndrome.
Tips:
Store films in a cool room (below 20°C) with low humidity (ideally 30-50%).
Avoid attics, basements, or garages.
2. Avoid Light Exposure
Why it matters:
Light, especially UV rays, causes colors to fade and images to deteriorate.
Tips:
Use opaque storage containers.
Keep reels in dark cabinets or closets away from sunlight.
3. Use Archival Storage Boxes
Why it matters:
Plastic bags and cardboard boxes can trap moisture or release chemicals that damage film.
Tips:
Invest in acid-free archival film cans or ventilated plastic reels designed for long-term storage.
Label boxes clearly to avoid unnecessary handling.
4. Store Reels Vertically
Why it matters:
Storing reels flat can cause pressure damage to the edges and deform the reel.
Tips:
Place reels on their side, like books on a shelf.
Don’t stack them on top of each other.
5. Check for Vinegar Smell
Why it matters:
A strong vinegar odor signals acetate decay — the film is breaking down and may soon become unusable.
Tips:
Isolate any reel that smells.
Bring it to Digify immediately for urgent digitization.
6. Don’t Try to Play Them Without Checking
Why it matters:
Old projectors can chew or snap brittle film. Damaged perforations may cause jamming.
Tips:
Never play reels unless you’re sure they’re in good condition.
Let a professional inspect and clean them first.
Bonus Tip: Digitize Before It’s Too Late
Preserving your reels physically is great — but the best protection is digitization. Once digitized, your memories are safe from mold, time, and mechanical failure. At Digify, we specialize in 8mm and 16mm film transfers in Dubai using professional-grade equipment and gentle handling.
In Summary:
Old films are time machines. Treat them with care, store them properly, and let us help you preserve them forever.