Avoid Common Mistakes On Vinyl Record Storage

 

Don't Let Your Vinyl Collection Warp: Avoiding Common Storage Mistakes

There's a reason vinyl records are experiencing a massive resurgence. The warm, rich sound, the tactile experience of dropping the needle, and the beautiful, large-format artwork are all part of the charm. But a vinyl collection is more than just a stack of LPs; it's an investment, a curated piece of your identity, and a collection that needs to be properly cared for to last.

Unfortunately, many newcomers and even seasoned collectors make common mistakes that can lead to irreversible damage. A warped record, a scratched surface, or a moldy sleeve can be heartbreaking. The good news is that with a little knowledge and some simple habits, you can keep your vinyl collection in pristine condition for decades to come. Here are some of the most common vinyl storage mistakes to avoid.

1. Stacking Your Records Horizontally

This is arguably the number one cardinal sin of vinyl storage. It's tempting to stack records like books on a coffee table or in a cabinet, but the weight of all those LPs on top of each other creates immense pressure. Over time, this pressure will cause the records at the bottom of the stack to warp, leading to playback issues and a ruined album.

The Fix: Always store your records vertically, like books on a shelf. This distributes the weight evenly and prevents any single record from bearing the full load of the stack.

2. Exposing Records to Extreme Temperatures and Sunlight

Vinyl is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a material that is highly sensitive to heat. Leaving your records in direct sunlight—even for a short period—can cause them to warp permanently. The same goes for storing them near a radiator, heating vent, or in a hot attic or garage. Extreme cold can also be an issue, making the vinyl brittle and more prone to cracking.

The Fix: Store your collection in a cool, dry place with a consistent temperature. An ideal range is between 65°F and 70°F (18°C to 21°C). Keep your records away from windows and any other sources of heat or cold.

3. Neglecting Proper Sleeves

Many records come with flimsy, static-prone paper inner sleeves. While they offer a minimal amount of protection, they can actually cause fine scratches and attract dust. And storing a record without a sleeve at all is a recipe for disaster, as it leaves the grooves completely exposed to dust, dirt, and fingerprints.

The Fix: Invest in high-quality, anti-static inner sleeves made of materials like polyethylene or rice paper. These will protect your records from dust and reduce static buildup. For the outer jacket, a good quality outer sleeve will protect the album art from "ring wear" (the circular impression the record makes on the sleeve) and other physical damage.

4. Overcrowding Your Shelves

While it's important to keep your records standing upright, cramming too many into a single shelf or crate is a bad idea. It makes it difficult to pull a record out without damaging the sleeve, and it can cause the records to lean and create pressure points that lead to warping.

The Fix: Leave a little breathing room on your shelves. You should be able to easily slide a record in and out without forcing it. If your collection is getting too big for your current setup, it’s time to invest in more storage.

5. Ignoring Humidity and Moisture

Damp environments like basements can be just as damaging as hot ones. High humidity can cause mold and mildew to grow on your record sleeves and even on the records themselves, which can be difficult to remove and can permanently damage the album art and the vinyl.

The Fix: Aim for a humidity level between 45-50%. If you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier in your storage area. Conversely, if you live in a very dry environment, a humidifier can prevent the vinyl from becoming brittle.

6. Using Flimsy or Inappropriate Shelving

Vinyl records are heavy. A collection of a few hundred LPs can weigh a significant amount. Using flimsy bookshelves or furniture not designed for the weight can lead to sagging or, worse, a complete collapse.

The Fix: Invest in sturdy, purpose-built shelving for your vinyl collection. There are many great options available, from classic cube shelves to dedicated record crates. The key is to find something that is strong enough to support the weight of your entire collection.

7. Improper Handling

This one might seem obvious, but it's a mistake that happens more often than you'd think. Touching the playing surface of the record with your fingers transfers oils and dirt into the grooves, which leads to clicks, pops, and a degraded listening experience.

The Fix: Always handle your records by the edges and the center label. Use a record brush to clean your LPs before and after each play to remove dust and debris.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your vinyl collection remains in excellent condition, sounding and looking just as good as the day you bought it. And for those looking to start their own vinyl journey or press their own music, a company that understands this passion is essential.

In Australia, Impress Vinyl stands out as a company that provides quality vinyl record pressing. Their commitment to the craft is evident in every step of the process, from the initial test pressing to the final product. With options for a range of sizes, colors, and packaging, they offer a comprehensive and expert service for artists and labels. They understand that a vinyl record is more than just a product; it’s a tangible piece of art, and their dedication to quality ensures that the music you love will be preserved beautifully for years to come.

Source: Avoid mistakes when storing records