Collectors of everything from comic books and action figures to everything in between hold their collections in high regard. Record collectors are no different. Record collectors swear that music doesn’t sound quite the same without that warm vinyl crackle, and if you’re a long-time collector, you probably agree.
However, it doesn’t matter if you’ve got a massive selection of crates with an expensive turntable and speaker setup, or just a couple of records and a suitcase player; if you don’t store your vinyl collection properly, they’ll lose their value and their sound quality, even warping and cracking beyond repair in extreme situations.
So long as you choose the right storage conditions, your vinyl collection can last for generations. Here, we’ll help you understand the dangers of storing records in certain environments, and why climate control is one of the best ways to make sure your collection doesn’t sustain damage.
What is the best environment for storing vinyl records?
Whether in storage or in your home, vinyl is best kept under the following conditions:
- In temperatures between 59 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit
- Out of direct sunlight
- In humidities between 35% and 45%
If you’ve already got a space in your home that meets these requirements, it’ll make an excellent place to store records. However, keep in mind that home spaces aren’t the best insulated for long-term storage, and extreme temperatures and humidities can find their way in if you don’t invest in dedicated air conditioning and humidity-controlling devices.
Standard storage units are also vulnerable to those extreme temperatures and humidities, especially during the summer. Climate-controlled storage units exist to make up for these shortcomings and to give you an optimal environment to store any delicate items in. These units are kept at predictable temperatures and humidities to protect belongings like records from heat, cold, moisture, and UV light.
Watch this video to learn more about climate-controlled storage units:
Units with climate control often cost more to rent than units without it, but you’ll save plenty of money in the long run if you can avoid replacing your favorite records or installing expensive equipment in your home storage space.
How do I clean and maintain my record collection?
First and foremost, make sure you carefully clean your records before you store them. Follow these steps with each vinyl you plan on putting away:
- Gently wipe the record’s surface with an anti-static record cleaning brush to remove dirt and dust.
- Apply a small amount of vinyl cleaning solution to a microfiber cloth and wipe the record in a circular motion.
- Rinse the record with water and dry completely with a new microfiber cloth.
Make sure you keep record labels from getting wet when cleaning your vinyl, and make sure they’re completely dry before putting them into their sleeves. If you’ve got a large collection to deal with, you might want to invest in a record-cleaning system, such as the Spin Clean, to wash many records quickly.
According to the Library of Congress, you should also take extra care when handling your records before, during, and after storage. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching albums, and only handle them by the edges and labels to avoid transferring grime from your fingers to the record.
Are vinyl records best stored vertically or horizontally?
Always store your vinyls vertically and never stack them on top of each other, as vinyl records that are allowed to lie flat will warp over time. If they’re kept at home, store them in a vinyl storage cabinet or in crates that will keep them vertical.
Pro tip: Pick up some record dividers and label them clearly so you can easily find the records you need without unnecessary handling. Dividers can also help keep different sized records separated; keeping records of different sizes next to each other can lead to warping, especially if they’re tightly packed.
How do I choose the right box for my records?
There are many crates, cases, and cardboard boxes out there to help you store your vinyl collection. In a pinch, you can use a wine crate or a small moving box to keep your records in a vertical orientation. However, it’s worth looking into boxes specifically made for keeping vinyl in; if you have records of different sizes, say 12-inch and 7-inch (think 45s), keep them separate in storage boxes designed for that size.
Let’s break down some common containers and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
Cardboard storage boxes
Cardboard boxes are a sturdy, budget-friendly option for keeping your records safe. You can store vinyl in:
- Small moving boxes. Standard-sized small moving boxes can store from 80 to 100 albums, and they’re easy to find at department stores or moving companies.
- Vinyl storage boxes with lids. Cardboard boxes built specifically for storing records cost a bit more, but provide double-layered wall protection and a lid to let you access records quickly. These boxes can store about 65 12-inch records.
Wooden crates
A wooden record crate offers a simple, sturdy, yet stylish way to store vinyl at home. Record crates, such as this kind from Victrola, can store up to 50 records while coming in a variety of colors and finishes to match your home or personal style.
Plastic cases
If protection from drops and impacts isn’t your primary concern, a soft plastic bag case can help you cut costs while making records easy to transport. Cases such as these protect up to 36 records from dust and moisture.
Hard cases
For your most valuable records, it’s worth investing in a hard case to give them the most protection. A good hard case will have reinforced corners and a sturdy shell to protect from drops and dust alike.
What record sleeves should I use?
The simplest way to protect your records from dust and dirt is to keep them in their original sleeves. However, if your sleeves are damaged or low-quality, you should look into replacing them with new ones to maintain a safe environment.
Outer sleeves
Most records don’t come with outer sleeves, but purchasing some good ones will help you protect the cardboard album covers from scratches or stains. Use archival-quality, acid-free outer sleeves that are at least 3 millimeters thick for best results.
Inner sleeves
Most vinyl records come with a cardboard album cover and a paper sleeve that the vinyl itself is stored in. However, paper sleeves tear and break down, and many record collectors have shifted to hardier plastic sleeves made of polyethylene for extra protection. Consider replacing your paper sleeves with these, or for the best of both worlds, use a dual-layer inner sleeve that features paper on the inside and plastic on the outside.
What are the best practices for storing records in a climate-controlled storage unit?
A couple more tips for packing records into self-storage:
- Never stack record crates more than three high. Too much weight can cause records to bend, warp, and break.
- Keep records off the ground in case of flooding. Shelves or wooden pallets are excellent ways to protect your collection from unwanted water damage.
How do I find the right storage unit for my record collection?
As long as you keep your records in a controlled environment, store them vertically, and keep them in high-quality sleeves and boxes, they’ll be as good as new for years and years to come. If you’re ready to start seeking out a storage unit for your vinyl collection, take a look at SpareFoot’s built-in search tool to compare the best storage facilities near you and narrow them down by the features you need most of all.
Tamara Holmes
