When a soldier receives an award, it is a moment of recognition for their courage and sacrifice. But over time, a practical question arises: how do you preserve these decorations so they do not lose their appearance and remain part of your family history?
We — the Zaytcev Wood team — have been making display cases for military awards since 2019. Over this time, hundreds of sets of decorations have passed through our hands: from medals for participation in operations to "For Courage" medals. In this article, we share the experience we have accumulated over years of working with the real awards of our defenders.
Why it is important to store awards properly
Military awards are made from various metals and alloys — brass, tombac, nickel silver, sometimes with silver or gilding. Each of these materials reacts differently to humidity, temperature, and contact with other surfaces.
Here is what happens when awards are stored incorrectly:
- Oxidation — dark spots on the surface, especially on brass and copper elements
- Corrosion — deterioration of the metal from prolonged contact with moisture
- Enamel damage — cracks and peeling of colored inlays from temperature fluctuations
- Scuffs — if awards lie on top of one another without protection, they scratch each other
- Loss of ribbons — fabric ribbons fade, fray, and lose their color
In our observation, awards are most often damaged precisely because of improper storage, rather than combat conditions. A medal that has survived combat missions can deteriorate within a year of sitting in a cardboard box in a closet.
Basic rules for storing military awards
1. Avoid direct contact between awards
Each award should have its own place. When medals lie in a pile, they scratch one another, and the enamel can chip. The ideal option is individual mounting on a velvet or velour base.
2. Control humidity
The optimal humidity for storing metal items is 40–55%. At higher humidity, oxidation begins; at lower humidity, enamel elements may crack. Do not store awards in bathrooms, basements, or attics.
3. Protect from direct sunlight
Ultraviolet light degrades fabric ribbons and can change the color of enamel coatings. If a display case hangs near a window, make sure that direct sunlight does not reach the awards.
4. Do not touch the metal with bare hands
The skin contains natural oils and acids that leave marks on metal surfaces. When placing awards in a display case, use cotton gloves or hold the medals by the ribbon or edges.
5. Avoid aggressive cleaning agents
Do not use abrasive pastes, vinegar, or citric acid to clean awards. This can damage the coating and enamel. For regular care, a soft dry microfiber cloth is sufficient. If deeper cleaning is required — consult a restorer.
How to choose a display case for military awards
We have already made over a thousand display cases of various types, so we know that there is no universal solution. The choice depends on the number of awards, the available space, and your preferences. Here is what is worth paying attention to.
Mounting type: wall-mounted or tabletop
Wall-mounted display cases are the most popular option. They save space, look presentable, and are convenient for daily viewing. They are suitable for most apartments and houses.
Tabletop display cases are a good option if there is no possibility of drilling into walls or if the awards need to be moved from time to time (for example, for events or exhibitions).
Body material
We work primarily with high-quality plywood. Here is why:
- Premium-grade imported plywood — a material that does not emit harmful substances and does not react with the metal of the awards
- Plastic — cheap, but can yellow over time and looks less presentable for such serious contents
Interior surface lining
This is perhaps the most important element of the display case from the standpoint of preserving the awards.
- Velvet (velour) — our standard choice. Soft, does not scratch the metal, looks dignified. Most often we use black, dark blue, or burgundy
Important: avoid low-quality synthetic fabrics that generate static. Static electricity attracts dust and can accelerate oxidation.
Glass or no glass
Acrylic glass protects awards from dust, accidental touches, and household moisture. We recommend using display cases with glass for most cases.
The no-glass option (open frame) is suitable if the display case hangs in a dry, clean room and the awards need to be removed and added regularly.
Size and planning
A practical piece of advice we give all our customers: choose a display case with 20–30% extra room beyond the current number of awards. Awards have a way of accumulating, and it is much more convenient to have free space than to order a new display case a year later.
Browse our catalog of display cases to see different size and configuration options.
Common mistakes in storing awards
We regularly see the same mistakes when customers bring in awards for framing. Here are the most common ones:
Storing in plastic bags
It seems logical — a bag protects against dust. But plastic does not breathe, and condensation forms inside, which accelerates corrosion. This is especially dangerous in summer, when the temperature fluctuates.
Using cases with foam rubber but no fabric
Bare foam rubber breaks down over time and releases acidic substances. If you use foam rubber, it must always be covered with fabric.
Cleaning awards with household chemicals
We have seen awards that someone tried to "freshen up" with plumbing cleaning agents or jewelry solutions. The result — a damaged coating and lost enamel. If an award has darkened — this is a normal patina, which even adds to its authenticity.
Mounting with glue
Some people try to glue awards to the base. This irreversibly damages both the award and the ribbon. We use special fasteners and hooks that hold securely but leave no marks.
How we arrange display cases: the work process
Every display case we make in our workshop goes through several stages:
- Discussion — we determine the number and type of awards, preferences regarding size and design. This can be done through our contacts or messengers
- Design — we create a layout for placing the awards, taking into account their dimensions and shape
- Body fabrication — cutting on laser equipment, sanding, painting
- Lining — installing the velvet or velour interior surface
- Fastener installation — the awards attach easily to the patented board, and instructions are also included
- Installation of glass and hardware — the final stage of assembly
The average production time is up to 5 business days, depending on the complexity of the order. Details regarding timelines and delivery methods are described on the delivery and payment page.
How to properly arrange awards in a display case
There are unwritten rules that are followed when arranging awards:
- The highest-ranking awards are placed in the top row or in the center of the composition
- Orders/medals are usually arranged from left to right by chronology of receipt
- Medals — below the orders, also by chronology or by category
- Badges — can be placed as a separate group
- Certificates and diplomas — if the format allows, they can be placed alongside
We always help customers with the layout — this is part of our work. If you are unsure about the correct arrangement, simply send us a photo of the awards, and we will suggest an option.
Specific types of awards: storage features
Challenge coins
Challenge coins are a popular award format in the Armed Forces of Ukraine and among international partners. Because of their round shape, they require individual seating or mounting on holders. We make dedicated display cases for challenge coins with individual slots for each size.
Ceremonial flags
Flags require a special approach — a ceremonial flag is folded into a triangle at our workshop, so for these we use special display cases for flags (a Ceremonial display case).
Award weapons and knives
For award knives and award weapons, we make display cases with reinforced mounting and additional protection. The metal elements of weapons require the same storage conditions as medals.
In lieu of a conclusion
Military awards are more than metal and enamel. They are evidence of courage that deserves a worthy treatment. Proper storage is not a whim, but a way to preserve history for future generations.
If you have questions about framing awards or choosing a display case — write to us. We are always glad to help and advise on the best option for your specific case. We also recommend reviewing the frequently asked questions, which gather answers to the most common inquiries.
This article was prepared based on the experience of the Zaytcev Wood workshop — over 5 years of working with military awards. Last updated: March 2026.
