How to Preserve Your VHS Tapes
Do you have a collection of VHS tapes? Many people may still have some of these lying around, but their lifespan is coming to an end. The difference between VHS tapes and digital files is that the tapes can deteriorate over time.
The heat, humidity, and cold that can be a part of a VHS tape’s life can cause the tape itself to disintegrate. Storing them and watching them correctly can safeguard against the impending doom that is best measured in “tape years.”
If you have a collection and would like to preserve your VHS tapes, here are some tips.
Weatherproof Storage Bins
Preserving VHS tapes by using weatherproof storage bins is an easy way to ensure the tapes stay in good condition. It is important to consider the humidity and temperature conditions when storing VHS tapes, as exposure to both heat and humidity can cause irreversible damage.
Weatherproof storage bins provide a waterproof environment which will help protect the tapes from humidity. Additionally, airport-style luggage locks can be used on the bins to keep the tapes secure. Be sure to periodically check your tapes for any issues and replace the tapes if necessary.
Location
Humidity, drastic temperature changes, and dust or debris can reduce the quality of tapes over time. Pick a location that is cool, dry, and dust-free, such as a closet or cabinet, and ensure it is not in direct sunlight. If possible, pick a location that has some air circulation, such as near ventilation.
It is also important to keep the spine labels of each tape legible, as this can make it easier to keep them organized. Finally, it’s a good idea to store the tapes upright rather than stacked or piled, as this can help minimize wear and tear.
Rewind
If blocking any ventilation, gently remove the obstruction with a soft cloth or brush. Before placing the cassette into the rewind, move the exposed reel and check for any dirt or foreign particles that may prevent the motor from working correctly.
Make sure the steady pressure is applied on the reels while tightening the counterclockwise rotation, which will generally ensure a smooth rewind procedure. To help prevent damage to the tape, be sure to pause the tape at least every 15 minutes when rewinding and again at the end of the rewinding process.
Convert VHS to DVD
To preserve and extend the life of your VHS tapes, it’s wise to convert them to a more durable format like DVD. The first step in this process is to acquire the necessary equipment, such as a DVD recorder, a spare VHS player, cables, and a TV monitor.
Once all the equipment has been gathered, the VHS tape should be inserted into the VHS player, and its output should be connected to the DVD recorder. The TV monitor should then be connected to the DVD recorder.
The next step is to press record on the DVD recorder to begin the recording. When the recording is finished, the DVD should be labeled correctly and stored in a safe place away from extreme temperature and humidity. You may also ask professional VHS to DVD services to help you out.
Learn How to Properly Preserve Your VHS Tapes
In conclusion, VHS tapes can still be a great way to enjoy a movie night or look back at memories. Before the warmth fades, take the proper steps to protect your VHS tapes. Make sure to back up and properly store your precious tapes to ensure they will last.
Visit our main blog for more!
