Direct sunlight may also cause a fire. Glass objects should be washed gently with a mild detergent, rinsed, and wiped with a soft cloth. Bluing added to the rinse waster will add luster. Moisture can damage metal causing rusting and corrosion. Salt-laden moisture can do great harm to cars and property, as anyone living near the sea can testify.
Severe moisture can cause wood to swell and paint to crack and flake off.
Excessive dryness can be equally harmful and cause wood and ivory to split and the design layers of paintings to crack. The effect is cumulative over time. Paper, textiles, basketry, and other organic materials suffer most from the effects of light, whereas metal, stone, glass, and ceramics are less vulnerable. Various pests prey on antiquities and collectibles. Carpet beetles attack carpets, wool, feathers, skin, and horn.