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When water damage threatens critical documents, choosing the right drying method is essential to prevent deterioration. This article explores both methods, outlining their benefits, considerations, and best-use scenarios.

When disaster strikes—whether through water damage, fire, or time itself—recovering documents and archives becomes a priority. However, misconceptions about document recovery can lead to costly mistakes, leading to further deterioration. From freezing techniques to spot treatments, many so-called "fixes" do more harm than good.

Silverfish, small wingless insects, pose a significant threat to archived documents. These pests thrive in dark, damp environments and have a particular appetite for starchy materials, making paper, book bindings, and even photographs prime targets. As they feed, silverfish leave behind tiny holes, yellow stains, and shed scales, which can damage valuable historical records.

Document freeze-drying is a technique that professionals use to dry and restore books and documents that receive water damage. The process involves using a special chamber that has a high-pressure vacuum. When the chamber reaches the optimal temperature and pressure settings, the moisture in the documents sublimates. The sublimation process turns liquid water into a gaseous state. Freeze-drying eliminates moisture, prevents or halts mold growth, and avoids complications such as sticking, staining, warping, curling and over-drying. While freeze-drying is an effective solution, it is not the answer for all wet documents.

Arguably, the cornerstone of safeguarding archives and collections lies in prevention, which makes understanding potential threats crucial. This is why The Canadian Museum of Nature and the Canadian Conservation Institute have compiled a list of the top 10 agents of deterioration, identifying the primary hazards to historical objects. This compilation aims to assist in preventing and protecting valuable collections, whether housed in museums or homes.