plastic bags?

Are plastic ziplock type bags acid free? I want to store some photos with albums but not in the sleeves.

Not sure about ziplock type bags, but you could always use page protectors that are made just for photos. There are tons of them out there by different brands with different sizes/layouts

I dont know if they are acid free but I usually store them in a plastic bag before I scrap them. I havent had an issue yet.

I found On a photo-restoration site the following recommendation for one step in the process. This leads me to believe at least temporarily, they are safe. "Use clear plastic bags such as Freezer Zip-locks or flush-cut bags with twist-ties (polyethylene or polypropylene plastic bags). Squeeze out the excess air from the plastic bag and seal the bag."


MORE RESEARCH:

All major brands of zipper bag are made of 100% polyethylene.


The major name brands carried at grocery stores are both totally safe, while being considerably cheaper that "archival" alternatives.

Polypropylene is "acid free" but may begin to degrade at around 8-10 years--especially in the presence of UV radiation. You can use those for storage but you should then replace them as they age and begin to break down. Even as it ages, it wouldn't harm you stuff--just not protect it. Since, exposure to UV is the major cause for deterioration, limiting sunlight would be helpful and would prolong the life...for ...ever?

PS Mylar is the most durable and safe option. Though that's a name brand for a polyester: polyethylene terephthalate commonly abbreviated PET, PETE.

So the short answer to your question is: Yes, it's safe. (Can you tell I'm a scientist?)