Freezing Preservation for Textile Conservation: A Chemical-Free, Proven Method
Freezing preservation is a highly effective and non-invasive method used by textile conservators to eliminate insect infestations from historic fabrics and delicate artefacts. By lowering the temperature to below -15°C, and ideally between -30°C and -40°C, conservators can safely destroy pests at all life stages- without resorting to harmful chemicals.
In this article, we explain how the freezing preservation method works, which textiles it’s suitable for, and how Froilabo’s -45°C freezers provide an ideal solution for museums and heritage institutions undertaking textile conservation.
Why Freezing Preservation Is Effective for Textile Conservation
Freezing is one of the safest and most effective pest control methods for textiles. Most insects cannot survive temperatures below -15°C. At -30°C to -40°C, eggs, larvae, and adult insects are reliably eliminated, preserving the textile’s integrity without chemical exposure.
This method is especially important in the conservation of historic textiles, where the use of fumigants or pesticides may cause irreversible damage to fragile fibres or dyes.
How the Freezing Preservation Method Works
To ensure maximum safety and effectiveness, textile items should be carefully prepared before freezing:
- Wrap the item in acid-free tissue paper to protect delicate fibres.
- Place in a polyethylene bag and seal it securely with tape. Partial air removal is recommended, but vacuum sealing should be avoided as it may damage fragile items.
- For larger or irregular items, gently roll them with interleaved acid-free tissue paper before wrapping.
- Avoid stacking heavy items on top of delicate ones. Use freezer-safe shelving or baskets to organize and protect artefacts.
Once packed, items should remain in the freezer undisturbed for at least two weeks. Thicker items or rolled textiles may require a longer freezing period. After removal, the items should remain sealed for 24 hours to allow them to acclimatise and prevent condensation on the textile surface.
What Types of Textiles Can Be Frozen?
Freezing preservation is suitable for a wide range of historic textiles and heritage materials, including:
- Antique clothing and garments
- Tapestries and banners
- Flags and military textiles
- Rugs and carpets
- Animal fur and pelts
However, this method is not recommended for extremely fragile items such as brittle silks, painted textiles, or fabrics with unstable dyes.
Froilabo Low Temperature Freezers: Ideal for Textile and Animal Fur Preservation
Froilabo’s -45°C freezer range is perfectly suited for freezing preservation and textile conservation. Designed for reliability, precision, and user-friendly storage, low temperature freezers are widely used in museums, archives, and conservation laboratories across Europe.
Key Features of Froilabo Trust Freezers:
- Low temperatures down to -45°C, ideal for insect eradication
- Available in three volume options:
- 340 L, 515 L, 690 L
- Optional interior storage equipment:
- Racks
- Drawers
- Designed for energy efficiency and long-term preservation
Whether you are conserving a delicate silk robe or treating a pest-infested tapestry, Froilabo’s range allows you to choose the right capacity and configuration to suit your conservation space.
Protect Historic Textiles with Confidence
Freezing preservation offers a safe, sustainable, and scientifically backed method for textile conservation. Froilabo’s -45°C freezers are a trusted solution used by conservation professionals who need reliable, high-performance equipment for artefact preservation.
If you’re working in textile conservation, collections management, or museum preservation, contact Froilabo today to learn how our freezing solutions can help you protect your valuable heritage collections.