Stop Foxing Around: How to Prevent and Remove Foxing on Postcards

If you collect postcards, you may come across postcards with a type of discoloration known as foxing. Foxing is a common problem with vintage paper items, and it can frustrate collectors who want their postcards to look their best. In this post, we’ll explain what foxing is, and what causes it. We’ll also give you some ideas on how to prevent or remove foxing from your postcards.

What is Foxing?

Foxing is a type of discoloration that appears on paper items, including postcards. It appears as small, circular or irregular spots that are brownish-yellow in color. The spots can be more pronounced in areas with high humidity, like near the spine of a book or in a damp basement. While generally a cosmetic issue and does not typically affect the structural integrity of the paper, it can be unsightly and may reduce the value of antique or collectible items.

What Causes Foxing?

Foxing can result from a variety of factors, including exposure to moisture, high humidity, and fungal growth. When paper items are exposed to moisture or high humidity, the paper fibers can break down and release acids that can cause discoloration. Fungal growth can also contribute to foxing, as fungi can thrive in damp environments and produce spores that can cause staining on paper.

Tips to Prevent Foxing on Postcards?

Preventing foxing is largely a matter of properly storing and handling your postcards. Here are some tips to help prevent foxing:

1. Store postcards in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of moisture.
2. Handle postcards with clean, dry hands to avoid transferring oils and moisture to the paper.
3. Use acid-free storage materials, such as acid-free folders, to protect postcards from acids that can cause foxing. I personally recommend these BCW postcard sleeves
4. Use a dehumidifier to control the humidity level in your storage area, especially if you live in a humid climate.

The Library of Congress has even more tips on handling and storing works of paper

How to Remove Foxing on Postcards?

If you have postcards that already have foxing, you can use a few methods to reduce or remove the foxing. However, note that these methods can alter the appearance of the postcards, so it is important to test the solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the postcard before applying it to the entire affected area.

1. Bleaching: You can use bleaching to remove or reduce the appearance of foxing on postcards. You can use several types of bleaches, including oxygen-based bleaches, chlorine-based bleaches, and hydrogen peroxide. However, bleaching can also weaken the paper fibers and cause further damage, so use it with caution and only with the help of a trained professional.
2. Deacidification: You can use deacidification to neutralize the acidic compounds that cause foxing. Deacidification sprays or baths can treat postcards and help slow down the aging process.
3. Encapsulation: You can use encapsulation to protect the postcard from further damage and slow down the aging process. Encapsulation involves placing the postcard in a clear polyester film that is sealed around the edges.
4. Restoration: You can use restoration techniques, such as paper repair and conservation, to repair or stabilize the postcard and reduce the appearance of foxing.

Of course, you can also use vintage postcards for art projects

Conclusion

Foxing is a common issue with vintage paper items, including postcards. It can result from exposure to moisture, high humidity, and fungal growth. However, by properly storing and handling your postcards, you can prevent foxing. Additionally, you can use methods such as bleaching, deacidification, encapsulation, and restoration to remove or reduce the appearance of foxing.