A flood can mean the loss of mementos, but that doesn’t have to be the outcome. If you’re especially concerned about saving photographs (negatives and color slides) from water damage, follow these steps.
- Remove the photos from the flooded area. Then inspect the albums and separate any that may be clinging together. Be careful not to rub or touch the wet emulsion of the photo surface.
- Gently rinse, not rub, both sides of the photo in a bucket or sink of clear, cold water. Change the water frequently.
- Then you’ll want to lay each wet photo face up on clean blotting paper. Don’t use newspapers or printed paper towels, as they can bleed onto the photos. Change the blotting paper every hour or two until the photos dry. Now you’re ready to dry them, ideally in a sunny and dry place.
It’s important to note this process isn’t perfect. If you’re really concerned about saving heirlooms, you may want to try your luck with a professional photo restorer after drying. Digitizing is another option to preserve these treasures.