DavidVinyl records are treasured by music lovers for their rich sound and nostalgic feel. However, records require a little more care than digital media if you want to maintain their quality. Since vinyl records are a financial investment, it’s important to store them properly so they will last longer. Whether you have a collection of vintage classics or brand-new vinyl, here are three reasons why proper storage helps you get more years of listening out of your records.
1. Preserves the Quality of the Recording
The most important thing about your record collection is how it sounds, and proper storage is essential for preserving the warm, rich notes that make vinyl special. Scratches are the biggest culprit when it comes to destroying the sound of vinyl recordings, so protecting your records from scratches is essential.
Always store vinyl records inside their cardboard jackets to keep them from getting scratched when not in use. If the original jackets that came with your records are damaged or beginning to deteriorate, consider purchasing clear plastic protectors or replacement jackets to store them in.
Use gentle techniques when handling and playing your records. Hold them by the edges or label area only, and avoid touching the grooves where the sound recordings are located to prevent your fingernails from scratching them. Keep your record player well-maintained, and never touch or move your records while they’re playing.
2. Prevents Warping and Cracking
One of the biggest threats to your record collection is warping and cracking. When a record sustains this kind of damage, it may sound different or refuse to play at all. Vinyl can become warped or distorted from exposure to sunlight, heat, and humidity. Records also break easily from being tumbled around or having too much weight placed on them.
If you want to keep your records from becoming warped, cracked, or broken, proper storage is a must. Keep your records in a cool, dark location with consistent temperature and humidity levels. Avoid stacking them on top of each other or crowding them into drawers. Consider investing in a vinyl record storage system that lets you store albums vertically.
3. Reduces the Need for Cleaning
Regular cleaning is an important part of maintaining your records. Using a soft, anti-static cloth or cleaning brush and record-cleaning solution to remove dirt, dust, and grime from the surface of your records helps prevent damage and keeps them sounding fresh. However, the cleaning process also presents a risk of scratching or damaging your records.
If you want to clean your records less often, store them properly to keep debris from accumulating in the first place. Use the thin paper sleeves that come with your records to protect them inside their jackets. You can purchase replacement sleeves if you have lost the original ones. Avoid storing records in high-traffic areas of your house like the living room, kitchen, or entryway.
Covered storage is another way to reduce the need to clean your records. Choose a sturdy storage unit with well-sealed doors and anti-dust materials. Remember to dust the outside surfaces of your record storage system frequently.