I want to do some research at the National Archives in July and need a cheap, clean, safe place to stay near the Metro lines. Any suggestions?

The Nat'l Archives is closed for a couple of years for renovations.

The Rotunda and Exhibit Halls are undergoing renovations, but the Archives itself is not closed, researchers can still go there.

http://www.archives.gov/facilities/dc/archives_1.html

I don't go to DC in the summer (too hot!) but here's some places I've found in spring & fall.

Quality Inn Iwo Jima (Arlington) is walking distance to the Rosslyn Metro stop. You may wish to take a cab if burdened with much luggage, but for day trips or light luggage, it was good.

If you'll have a car, then consider Red Roof Inn Laurel MD. It's about 12 minutes to the Greenbelt Metro Station.

A Red Roof Inn in DC, in Chinatown, often has decent rates. For really cheap, there's a HI/AYH Hostel in DC, but I've never stayed there. (Remove the x in my eddress to reply me)

Yikes, why stay out in the suburbs? All that time and Metro fare wasted.

We liked the Best Western New Hampshire Suites, between Georgetown and Dupont Circle. Safe area, plenty of restaurants, just a few blocks to the Metro. Rate included continental breakfast (bagels, waffles, yogurt, fruit, etc.) and all rooms have a living-room area and a kitchenette. We got a very good rate through www.washingtondchotels.com

Which archives site will you be using? The one in DC or the one in Maryland?

The one in D.C.

Check out the State Street Plaza on E Street. A lot of people from the State Dept. stay there and the rates used to be reasonable.

I just got a weekend summer rate through Sheraton Four Points of $59 perhaps this fare is also on for your dates. Brand new hotel