Freezing 4X5 film: bag the box, or just freeze it?

[TrespasserWill]

I've got two more boxes of 4X5 film than I had planned on, and I would like to know about freezing it. Should I store each bag in a zip-loc bag, or just stick each box in the freezer and take it out when I need it? I'm concerned about frost inside the box, and subsequent moisture when I thaw the film.

Thanks to all who reply.

With best regards,

Stephen

[Ari]

I refrigerate my film, but if I were to freeze it, I'd definitely use a ziplock to protect the box and contents from condensation and accidental thaws.

[Sirius Glass]

If the original package has not been opened then I just freeze it. If the original package has been opened then I put it in a Zip-Lok bag and then freeze it.

[480sparky]

If the original package has not been opened then I just freeze it. If the original package has been opened then I put it in a Zip Lok bag and then freeze it.

Not all sheet film comes sealed from the factory. Some liner bags are open on one end.

Toward that premise, I always use a freezer bag. Film's expensive enough to lose a box trying to cheap out.

[Wayne]

Pretty sure all Kodak and Ilford films are sealed though, and I've always thrown them in as is. Other brands YMMV

Not all sheet film comes sealed from the factory. Some liner bags are open on one end.

Toward that premise, I always use a freezer bag. Film's expensive enough to lose a box trying to cheap out.

[Roger Thoms]

Ziplock bags whether it's in the frig or freezer. Lost several boxes of Ilford 7x17 that was in his frig, the condensate drain go plugged and water start dripping in the frig. Film was toast by the time he discovered it.

You can buy a lot of ziplock bags for the price of a box of film or paper.

Roger

[Sirius Glass]

Not all sheet film comes sealed from the factory. Some liner bags are open on one end.

Toward that premise, I always use a freezer bag. Film's expensive enough to lose a box trying to cheap out.

Pretty sure all Kodak and Ilford films are sealed though, and I've always thrown them in as is. Other brands YMMV

I only have Kodak and Ilford sheet and roll film. They have been happy so far without the Zip-Lok bags.

[Roger Thoms]

I should add that when I remove film from the frig or freezer I let it warm up to room temperature. Especially here in San Francisco, plenty of condensation on the outside of the bag until it warms up. Not as much of an issue in Flagstaff.

Roger

[biedron]

I would opt for bagging the boxes. Zip lock bags are cheap. Film, no so much.

Bob

[John Layton]

I always Ziplock film prior to freezing it - and make sure to warm prior to loading into holders. Also, as an additional precaution, I'm always sure to use the "freezer rated" Ziplocks...not just the "storage rated" ones. Freezer-rated bags are slightly heavier/sturdier, and feature better sealing. Just my two cents!