Uninsulated basements are usually moist which can cause photographs to stick to each other. Another problem encountered in basements is that they are great breeding grounds for insects and rodents which are strongly attracted to gelatin and cellulose in the photographic emulsion. Wood, Paper and Paper Products - Wood and papers contain harmful additives such as bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Use only paper products that are acid free. Miscellaneous Materials - Rubber bands or rubber cement contain sulphur which degrades photographic emulsions.
Paper clips can abrade or scratch the surfaces of prints or negatives.
Pressure sensitive tapes usually contains acids which can accelerate the deterioration process. Any kind of ink also contains acids. Fingerprints on prints or negatives create physical damage from the oils and acids in human skin. Also, the intense light and heat from copiers are detrimental to photographs. High humidity is most harmful and high temperatures accelerate the deterioration.