Care & Preservation
Your Message in a Bottle™ keepsake is crafted with archival-quality materials designed to last for years of display and revisiting. With proper care and thoughtful placement, your keepsake will remain beautiful and meaningful over time.
Our Commitment to Quality
Every Message in a Bottle™ keepsake is created with longevity in mind:
- Archival Materials: We use acid-free papers, UV-resistant inks, and museum-quality materials
- Sealed Protection: Messages are protect against moisture and environmental factors
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand careful handling and display for decades
When you receive your keepsake, it’s already designed for longevity. Following these care guidelines will ensure it remains beautiful for generations.
Display and Placement
Choosing the Right Location
✓ DO Display In:
- Indoor locations with stable temperature
- Away from direct sunlight
- Low to moderate humidity areas
- Protected shelves or mantels
- Interior walls away from windows
- Climate-controlled rooms
✗ AVOID Placing:
- In direct sunlight or near windows
- In bathrooms or high-humidity areas
- Above heat sources (fireplaces, radiators)
- In unheated/uncooled spaces (garages, attics)
- Near air vents with direct airflow
- Outdoors or in semi-enclosed spaces
Why Location Matters
Sunlight: UV rays can fade ink and paper over time, even through glass. Indirect natural light is fine, but avoid direct sun exposure.
Humidity: Excessive moisture can affect paper and seals. Maintain humidity levels between 30-50% when possible.
Temperature: Extreme heat or cold can affect materials. Room temperature (65-75°F) is ideal.
Handling Your Keepsake
Safe Handling Practices
- Clean hands: Wash hands before handling to avoid transferring oils or dirt
- Gentle grip
- Secure surface: Place on stable, flat surfaces
What to Avoid
- Don’t shake or invert vigorously
- Don’t place items on top of your keepsake
- Don’t allow children to handle without supervision
- Don’t use your keepsake as a bookend or to prop up other items
Preserving Longevity
Expected Lifespan
With proper care, your Message in a Bottle™ keepsake is designed to last for decades of display and safekeeping. The archival materials we use are the same grade used by museums and libraries for permanent collections. Many family heirlooms crafted with similar materials have survived centuries.
Environmental Factors
| Factor | Ideal Range | Impact if Outside Range |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | 65-75°F (18-24°C) | Extreme heat or cold can affect adhesives and materials |
| Humidity | 30-50% | High humidity can affect paper |
| Light Exposure | Indirect, minimal UV | Direct sunlight causes fading over time |
| Air Quality | Clean, dust-free | Smoke, cooking oils, dust accumulation affects appearance |
Passing Down Your Heirloom
One of the most beautiful aspects of a Message in a Bottle™ keepsake is that it can be passed along with its story:
- Document its history: Include a note about when it was created and its significance
- Share care instructions: Pass along this care guide to future generations
- Photograph it: Take photos of the keepsake and any accompanying documentation
- Tell the story: Share the context and meaning with those who will inherit it
- Consider a display case: For especially precious heirlooms, a glass display case offers additional protection
Contact Our Care Team
Questions about caring for your keepsake? Need advice on a specific situation?
Message in a Bottle™ Care Team
Email: kcmib@bottlemeamessage.com
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Pacific Standard Time
Your Message in a Bottle™ keepsake was created to stay visible, meaningful, and cared for over time. With these simple practices, it can remain as beautiful and moving years from now as it is today. We’re honored to be part of what it carries.
Crafted to Last • Meant to Be Kept • Designed to Stay Visible