Whether you are a new or old vinyl collector, it is important to know the best way to store your records. Vinyl records can be stored in many different ways and there are plenty of options for storage. In this article, we will discuss the top six ways that vinyl collectors have found to store their records.
Inner Sleeves
Inner sleeves are used to protect the record’s surface. They should be made of polyethylene, or Mylar if you can find them. The vinyl will not slip around in an inner sleeve and there is no chance of it getting scratched by a rough edge like paper records do. A problem with these sleeves is that they often sag from being so thin and have trouble staying on top of the LP when you put it back in its outer sleeve. For this reason many people use two at a time for extra protection while also using more expensive clear vinyl instead of white which may become dirty over time as well as easily showing any scratches or imperfections from dust particles floating around inside your home (or office).
Inner sleeves are not expensive at all. You can find them in any vinyl store or most music stores and they are relatively cheap.
The outer Sleeve For Double Protection
Outer sleeves will create a double layer of protection for your LP.
The outer sleeve should be made from a durable and thick plastic or vinyl material that will not tear easily and protect the surface of the LPs
Outer sleeves also serve another function beyond just protecting records: they can contain liner notes, album artwork, lyrics, information about the artist etc.
It is possible to find many different colors in this type of protective cover as well so you are able to personalize it however you want!
A third use for external record storage sleeves would be if you have an expensive collection with some very rare albums which might need extra special care because they could get damaged easier than regular ones due to their age or condition.
Vinyl bags
Vinyl bags are another great way to store vinyl records and they are a lot more inexpensive .
A few things you should know about vinyl bags
Vinyl Record Bags have three main functions:
– External protection for your LPs from dust, dirt and other harmful materials which can be found in the environment where the album is stored or transported (in case of use)
– To keep the LP clean while it’s being handled by not touching its surface with bare hands, except when necessary
– Storage space reducing effect because both sides of an album fit inside one bag instead of two sleeves !
They come in different colors, so you’re able to personalize them according to taste!
Record Bins
Record Bins is one of the best storage solutions because
– Record bins can hold more records per square foot than most other forms of vinyl shelving units and cabinets.
– They are not expensive, so the cost will be minimal if you decide to buy a large number of them for an extensive record collection.
– Record bins are available in different colors which makes it easier to organize your LP’s by genre, artist name or alphabetically (although this is not necessary).
For example: You could have one bin with just blues albums, another with soul music LPs only etc…
All these advantages make Record Bins very popular among collectors who want to store their album collections effectively while maintaining good aesthetics.
Record Shelving Units and Cabinets
If you want to store your vinyl records in a more unconventional way, record shelving units or record cabinets might be the perfect storage solution for you.
The main difference between these two is that Record Shelves are freestanding and allow ample space to view each one of them at once – without having any obstruction – while record cabinets can only hold up to about 12 LP’s per shelf.
In order to get the most out of it though, make sure that shelves are wide enough so that they don’t obstruct sight lines from front to back as well as side to side.
Cabinets are perfect for vinyl enthusiasts with limited space, but make sure to have some sort of storage in place if you want to store more than 12 records.
Just like the record shelves, it’s important that LP holders are wide enough so as not obstruct sight lines from front to back and side to side.
If you’re looking for a way to organize your collection without taking up too much space, then a cabinet is perfect! The main difference between these two types of units is their capacity – while cabinets can hold only about twelve LPs per shelf; shelves measure anywhere from 16-24 inches deep by 36-48 inches high depending on which one suits your needs best and allow ample viewing room for all albums at once.
Storage Cases and Boxes
Another way to store your vinyl records is by using storage cases and boxes.
Boxes are the most economical option, as they can be stacked on top of one another to save space however these are not entirely reliable for displaying your collection because you have to open them in order to see what’s inside.
Storage Cases make it possible for vinyl records to be displayed without taking up too much room – so long as there is adequate shelving available! These also come with a cover that keeps dust out while still allowing full visibility of each record at all times (the covers hinge closed).
Record players stands
Another storage option worth considering are Record Player Stands.
These are great because they allow records to be easily flipped over without having them fall off the shelf, and can also accommodate up to six records on each side – so it makes for a fantastic way of displaying your collection!
However this type of display is not very good if you want to store vinyl in their original sleeves (as these will need some space in between).
It’s important to note that record player stands only work with standard LPs. If you’re looking for something designed specifically for 45s or 78s, then you’ll have no choice but to keep searching!
Best temperature for storing vinyls
You might be thinking what’s the best temperature for your vinyls? The best temperature for vinyl records is a cool and dry place, preferably around 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Look out for storage places that have high humidity levels because these are the worst places to store your favorite LP’s in terms of their quality and longevity!
If you’re looking at storing them in an even hotter climate then consider putting them on top of something like styrofoam or a board with some air conditioning blowing over it so they don’t get too hot. Otherwise if you’ve got any old towels lying around this can also work as long as there’s not too much moisture involved (just make sure they’re clean!)
Can you store your vinyls outside? Well, it is not the best way to store vinyl records.
If you have a basement or garage then this is an ideal place to store your collection because they’re out of any direct sunlight and away from extreme humidity levels that exist on the surfaces. If there’s no other option for storage options available in your home then storing them in these locations are better than nothing. But if possible try to find some space inside your house where they’ll experience less fluctuations in temperature as well as being able to breathe freely without exposure to outside elements like pollen blowing through screens or grass/dirt getting tracked into their sleeves.
In conclusion
Storing your vinyl records is a process that can be confusing for those who are unfamiliar with the various ways to store them. We recommend storing your records in albums, sleeves, and boxes or crates as these materials will prevent damage from any potential spills. You should also keep away from direct sunlight so you don’t have to worry about yellowing over time. If you want to learn more about how best to care for your collection of LPs, we’re here! Let us know by leaving a comment below what types of questions you might have related to storage techniques–we’d love an excuse to talk all things music and record collecting!
