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Acidity
Since the Civil War era, newspapers have been printed on cheap, highly acidic wood pulp. The acid in this paper causes it to break down quickly. Storing newspapers in cardboard boxes accelerates that process because the boxes are also acidic. If you want to store newspapers in cardboard boxes, wrap them in acid-free tissue paper first to protect them from the acid in the box. Use an aerosol spray product to remove acid from valuable newspaper clippings. The product is expensive and caustic, so save it for important papers.
Protection from Humidity
Stored in cardboard boxes, newspapers are susceptible to damage from humidity. High humidity causes mold and spores to grow on newspapers. Low humidity causes newspaper to dry out and crack. Store newspapers in archival boxes or archival folders. Don't keep them in damp places like a basement.
Damage from Heat
Fragile, archived newspapers are damaged by extreme temperature fluctuations and exposure to air. Many people store cardboard boxes in attics and garages where they are unprotected from hot summer and cold winter temperatures. Sunlight also damages newspapers and fades ink. The best place to store newspapers is under the bed.