The Central Research Laboratory has carried out a survey of problems in conservation of ethnographic collections in Dutch museums. Not only do collections contain every material, they are combined in the objects as well. But objects are more than just material, they are information carriers. A matrix was designed in which the various materials are divided in five groups and the causes of damage are divided in five categories. The problems can be entered into the matrix as combinations of group and category. The most serious problems are degradation of plant fibers and of matte paint surfaces. Other problems are deterioration of untanned hides, loss of hair from furs, conservation of feathers, silk and lacquer ware, and pest control. There is a need for research and information on both preventive and active conservation. Other needs are more ethno-oriented training of conservators, more understanding of material culture with curators, and exchange of knowledge and experience in working groups.