Textiles can become embrittled when humidity levels are low. Conversely, permanent staining can occur from mold growth when humidity levels are excessively high. Most often, damage occurs due to the expansion and contraction of fibers in response to drastic changes in temperature and relative humidity levels. These changes can damage the resiliency, elasticity and strength of fibers. Therefore, it is important to minimize extreme climatic fluctuations.
Heat can embrittle and discolor textiles.
Synthetic fibers such as rayon, nylon, polyester and acetate can become permanently deformed when exposed to high levels of heat. Inexpensive temperature and humidity sensors can be purchased from conservation suppliers. While precise control of temperature and humidity is desirable, it is not always practical in homes. Therefore, damage should be minimized by avoiding extremes in temperature and humidity. This can be done by insuring that paintings are kept away from heat sources such as furnace vents, fire places, warm lights and direct sunlight.