Good morning!

I am wondering what everyone's opinion is on freezing treatments for 
dermestids. The objects themselves are not the issue today, but what length 
of time to freeze.  When I was an intern at a museum we froze infested items 
after a good vacuuming, wrapped in acid free tissue, bagged and sealed, we 
would freeze the items for a two week period. Remove and gradually thaw to 
room temp then clean again, bag and seal for one more two week period. I've 
caught wind of the new idea that 48 hours in -20 F would be all that was 
needed. For me the jury is still out on such a short treatment.  Also are 
there better options than freezing? We have also thought of oxygen 
deprivation chambers. I welcome everyone's opinion.

To give some history my infestation is of dermestids (pesky brats that I've 
been lucky enough to find live and dead!) They are everywhere but we are 
mostly concerned with our vast uniform collection. What also would be the 
most convenient way in time and money to treat over 200 items.
We will be moving to a new building in about a year and I don't want the 
infestation to follow. But I also don't want the next 5 years of my job to 
be spent freezing, thawing and cleaning this enormous collection. We have 
thought of renting a refrigerated truck, has anyone tried this method?

Thank you all for advice in advance. I really enjoy the discussions on this 
board.
From the Dermestid Queen of the east coast!!!!

Marielle

**********************
Marielle Fortier
Registrar
Norwich University Museum
Northfield, Vermont 05663
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