VHS tapes are quietly making the comeback they’ve always deserved. Chasing the authentic grainy feel that new media can only mimic, “tapeheads” are turning back to VHS movies and their warm, organic color (you haven’t seen Evil Dead until you’ve experienced it on tape). And with a VHS player at hand, it’s that much easier to revisit old family recordings, from back when capturing the good times meant more than turning on your mobile camera.
But if we want to make the most of VHS tapes, we must learn how to store VHS tapes. Luckily, it’s not rocket science — even large collections can find the right shelter in self storage. But should you prefer not to go through the hassle, here’s a newsflash: a sealed copy of The Goonies sold for $125,000. And there are many similar cases. Got your attention?
1. Why does proper VHS storage matter?
Memories can fade, but VHS tapes hold — if you avoid risks of poor storage, such as:
- Mold: Damp, dusty, or humid places like attics and basements will create mold in the magnetic ribbon of your tapes, rendering them unusable with time.
- Magnetic decay or warping: High temperatures and high humidity will affect the magnetic tape and lead to loss of footage.
2. What is the best environment for storing VHS tapes?
VHS tapes are a lot like Indiana Jones’ relics — once you’ve got them, keep them:
- Not too close to the ground (dampness)
- Away from direct sunlight
- Away from strong magnetic sources (like loudspeakers and motors)
- At temperatures of 60-70°F, 30-50% humidity
So, avoid basements, attics, or garages, if they’re not climate-controlled. Please.
3. Should I put my VHS tapes in self storage?
Yes! VHS tapes can easily go into a storage unit. But make sure you get climate-controlled storage. While Dracula doesn’t need temperature control to store himself, VHS tapes certainly do. This is the best solution if: You live in a place with high fluctuations in humidity and temperature, you have rare VHS tapes, which could pay off big time in an online auction, or you already using a climate-controlled unit.
4. How do you prepare your VHS tapes for storage?
You know the drill. If you don’t, here’s the drill:
- Clean your tapes and cases with a cleaning pad to keep out mold and dust.
- Rewind tapes fully, so their magnetic ribbon won’t stick.
- Check for damage and make repairs before it’s too late.
- Take adhesive labels off to prevent residue damage.
- Use acid-free cases or boxes — trust us.
5. Can I use regular boxes or shoe boxes?
Ah, the classic dad solution. The answer? Yes, clean cardboard boxes or shoe boxes can be used for everyday storage.
Still, make sure to line the box with acid-free paper or a clean cloth, store tapes upright, and add silica gel packs to control humidity. For valuable or long-term storage, consider archival-quality or watertight containers for added protection.
6. What are the best practices of VHS tape maintenance?
If you don’t want your VHS tape of The Lion King turning into a psychedelic joint, here’s what you do:
- Store tapes upright (like books) to prevent sagging or warping. Don’t trust us? It’s what the experts at the Library of Congress advise.
- Use original sleeves, archival-quality cases, and watertight totes.
- Use silica gel packs/desiccants for moisture control.
- Check their condition and rewind at least every three years.
7. Is it worth digitizing my VHS tapes, and how do I do it?
Want to max out the longevity of your VHS tapes? We know what you’re thinking. But while cryogenic freezing is an option for some, you certainly shouldn’t try this with VHS tapes.
So, the best strategy is to digitize tapes at home using a VCR and a video capture device connected to your computer, or by using a professional digitizing service (often the safe bet). Keep both the digital files and the original tapes for maximum peace of mind, since digital backups are easy to share and won’t degrade with time.
To recap: What are the common mistakes of VHS storage?
If you have a VHS collection, odds are that you’ve stored at least one tape improperly. That’s alright. To quote Osmond from Some Like It Hot, “Nobody’s perfect.” From now on, just resist the temptation to:
- Store VHS tapes in plastic bags (which trap moisture).
- Leave them in hot cars or near heaters.
- Not rewind or check them for years.
- Use non-climate-controlled storage for the rarities.
Also, come back to this article if you’re not sure! If you’re planning to take your film collection into the 21st century, you can read up on how to store your DVDs like a true film buff, too! And if your collection spans different mediums, you check out our guide on how to store vinyl records or this list of creative book storage ideas.
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