Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/07/29
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]A good way to store developer is in mylar bags that are marketed by Delta 1. The bags have a spout, which pokes through the side of the cardboard container that holds it. The bag collapses as the chemical in it is used, so there is no air introduced. They are easy to clean, and last for many years. But dark is dark, so if you keep developer in clear glass bottles (air free!) in a light-tight cabinet, it is not exposed to light. If you mix Xtol, the bags can hold 5 liters. Kodak says it will last a year under those conditions, but I would use six months to be safe (but you'll use it up way before then). When you start printing, they will hold Dektol, too. Everything else use on a one-time basis. For film, use fresh stop bath, rapid fixer, hypo remover and photo-flo. Opinions on the need or even advisability of distilled water vary, but everyone agrees that if you have water problems use it for the final rinse with that drop of photo-flo. A myriad of problems stem from re-use of chemicals, particularly if some time passes between sessions. Jesse Hellman Baltimore, Maryland, USA