Grand Rapids Public Museum

Just as you may be concerned with moths or other pests when putting away your seasonal clothes, the Museum must be constantly diligent in preventing any sort of infestation within our collections. As we collect an amazing array of artifacts, we are mindful of the public’s trust in us to be good stewards. Even though our collection is stored in a state-of-the-art climate controlled facility, we must be cautious of what little travelers may be along for the ride when we add pieces to our collection. Moths, beetles and wood boring insects could be devastating if allowed free reign amidst our artifacts.

Any artifact that comes into the building is inspected and placed in holding, and if deemed a threat, is sealed tightly in plastic before being put in a freezer for three weeks. Once removed, the artifact is again inspected and using small brushes, screens and a super HEPA vacuum, carefully cleaned of any eggs or other debris that pests may have left behind. As many insects’ eggs can lay dormant for more than two years, any artifacts that show signs of infestation need to be segregated and observed for the potential hatching. This same process is used on any artifact that we may come across already in the collection that shows signs of infestation. We remain ever vigilant.