Ideas for Storing Your Vinyl Records Like a True Collector
3 min read
Vinyl records aren’t just collections of music—they’re time capsules, artworks, and sometimes even heirlooms.
For those with a smaller supply and those with stacks of LPs on every wall, it’s important to learn how to store your vinyl records because they’re only going to sound clear and bright for decades to come if they’re treated right.
Furniture Built Specifically to Hold Records
For storage, there’s no better option than to score a durable storage unit. Many record collectors opt for cube shelving. Cubes are perfectly square and fit individual LPs perfectly. Records are safe when stacked vertically, too. They should never lean or sit on top of each other because then the groove of the vinyl is going to warp. Of course, for those who have a more classic design scheme, a mid-century record cabinet is a great option. They’re chic, impressively constructed, and have storage options built right in. Some even have a turntable spot built into the top. Record stand furniture is also an option. Some designs are made to show off the currently spinning wax. The rest of your collection is stored neatly behind or below.
Safe Storage Solutions and Best Practices
Of course, records should always be stored upright—not lying flat. If they aren’t standing up straight, then the record case is too tight. Conversely, if the plants are sliding around too much, then your collection is too spaced out. A turntable owner might be able to let a few lie flat close together. But it isn’t a good idea if the turntable and 30 more suffer an unfortunate outcome. The room that your records call home should be pretty chill. Keep the collection in a temperature-controlled environment (heat and humidity are damaging), out of direct sunlight. Toss out the paper sleeve and replace it with a durable plastic to help the album cover last longer.
Smart Storage Tips and Collection Control
Let’s face it. Everyone loves their music. The sound of a needle touching down onto a record is enjoyed everywhere. The original vinyl’s sound is a classic. Its rich, warm sound ingrains the talent of artists. It really does sound like the Shea Stadium crowd cheering in from the Beatles album. There are a variety of methods that can even help to optimise the record label, while the warmth and the round sound that is coming off the vinyl. It goes without saying that all of the defined guidelines are meant to be used on records that were produced from 1948 to 1980, splashed together with re-issue tracks from the album formerly.
Manoeuvring Systems and Storage Ideas
If you’re someone who fits in the “space constraint” category, it is likely that you will love album crates. Use them to grab just the jacket and the black plastic to take an album home, with previous visions of stealing as much of a band’s music as possible. Additional larger racks are useful. They can either be heavy-duty storage solutions or simple, light shelves. Work with your accessories to determine what looks good and what is a new must-have in your living room.
Whether you’re just starting to build a collection or you’ve had hundreds of records in storage for years, maintaining your vinyl records with care will help protect their audio quality and good looks. By using a combination of the right storage furniture, protective accessories, and appropriate placement, your records will stay pretty and in good working shape.
::: RenownedForSound.com’s Editor and Founder –
Interviewing and reviewing the best in new music and globally recognized artists is his passion.
Over the years he has been lucky enough to review thousands of music releases and concerts and interview artists ranging from top selling superstars like 27-time Grammy Award winner Alison Krauss, Boyz II Men, Roxette, Cyndi Lauper, Lisa Loeb and iconic Eagles front man/songwriter, Glenn Frey through to more recent successes including Newton Faulkner, Janelle Monae and Caro Emerald.
Brendon manages and coordinates the amazing team of writers on RenownedForSound.com who are based in the UK, the U.S and Australia.
