The rate of deterioration is determined by the level of illumination and the duration of exposure. Limiting both factors will reduce damage. Temperature and Relative Humidity Higher temperatures accelerate the rate of chemical reactions, speeding up the degradation of fibers, dyes, and contaminants. Therefore, textiles should not be displayed near direct sources of heat such as fireplaces, spotlights, and windows. They also should not be stored in areas inclined to high temperature, such as attics.
Relative humidity is a measure of the moisture in the air.
Because all organic materials contain moisture, fluctuations in temperature and the resulting changes in relative humidity will cause objects to expand and contract. Over time, continuing dimensional changes will result in permanent damage to both organic and inorganic substances. This phenomenon is compounded in textiles made of disparate materials. Other problems associated with high relative humidity are bleeding dyes and corroding metals. Pollution and Airborne Soils Smog, car exhaust, and ozone are pollutants that cause chemical degradation of objects.