Are you a vinyl enthusiast or a record collector? If so (and you're anything like my fiancé), you may find yourself with dozens, if not hundreds, of vinyl records. Even if you've installed special shelving to display your precious collection, it may not be enough. Enter vinyl record storage.
If space is limited, consider storing your vinyl records in a climate-controlled self-storage unit to keep them in pristine condition. You don't have to rush to sell your collection because your closet is full!
Whether you've collected all of Taylor's TTPD vinyl variants (my fiancé hasn't; he's not a Swiftie) or inherited a vintage jazz album collection from your grandfather (me!), proper LP storage is key. Here are our top tips for storing vinyl records safely to preserve their quality for years.
Tips for Storing Your Vinyl Record Collection
Photo Credit: @alldayvinyl
Choose a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit
Vinyl records are very susceptible to temperature fluctuations and humidity, which can cause warping, mold growth, and deterioration. Renting a climate-controlled storage unit helps maintain stable conditions and prevents damage.
Avoid storing records in basements, attics, or garages, where extreme heat and humidity can cause them to deteriorate over time. You can find a Storage Star self-storage facility near you and begin your climate-controlled album storage rental online today.
Store Records Vertically
Never stack your albums horizontally, as the weight can cause warping or cracking. Always store vinyl records upright in a sturdy, supportive container to prevent bending.
For optimal storage, consider vinyl record storage case or record crate explicitly designed for albums. If you need a transport-friendly option, try the Odyssey KROM record case on Amazon, which holds up to 70 12-inch records. Alternatively, a "Really Useful Box" clear plastic storage container is a lightweight and protective choice.
While a sturdy cardboard box can work in a pinch, it won't provide the same level of protection against moisture, dust, and warping. Select a heavy-duty box with reinforced corners for added durability if you opt for cardboard.
Photo Credit: @recordcabinets
Use Protective Sleeves
Keep your records in outer sleeves and inner sleeves to prevent dust buildup and scratches. If the original sleeve is missing, you can purchase replacements online. Poly sleeves are a favorite among collectors because they are durable and maintain shape, while archival-grade polypropylene sleeves provide extra protection against dust and dirt.
A few recommendations? We like:
Avoid paper sleeves, which may leave residue on the vinyl, potentially affecting playback quality.
Keep Vinyl Away from Sunlight and Heat Sources
Exposure to direct sunlight or heat can warp or melt your records, permanently damaging them. To preserve sound quality, store your collection away from windows, radiators, heaters, or any other heat-emitting appliances.
Don't keep your records directly in the sunlight.
Even if a window seems too high for the beams to hit your vinyls, it still may at certain points throughout the afternoon.
Photo Credit: @martinhowlettfurniture
Don't Overfill Storage Boxes
While maximizing storage space is tempting, overfilling a vinyl record storage box can crush or bend album covers. Also, please don't stack heavy items on top of storage boxes, especially if they're made of cardboard.
Keep Records Off the Floor
Store your vinyl records on a storage shelf, storage rack, or pallet rather than directly on the floor to prevent exposure to spills, moisture, or flooding. This is particularly important if you’re storing in a unit.
If you’re into aesthetics, we recommend upgrading to a record storage cabinet, bookshelf, or even a record player stand. These options are typically best suited for in-home storage, such as a living room, rather than a storage unit.
Photo Credit: @martinhowlettfurniture
Organize & Label Your Record Storage
Chances are, you're going to be listening to or displaying your collection at some point. So, you should label your storage solutions accordingly. Label your record storage bins by genre, artist, or period.
If your collection is seasonal (lively swing for the summer and carols for the winter), you could organize your storage containers by time of year or holiday. You can even arrange your records by mood or by concert (ex, all the artists you saw at a particular music festival)! Think of how you'd curate a digital playlist and potentially arrange the boxes that way.
When you're organizing your collection, you can make it easier by using record dividers. Dividers can be used in storage crates, on shelves, or in storage boxes.
Dividers are available in a variety of durable, sturdy materials, including polyethylene, wood, and acrylic. They’re usually thick and tear-proof, which is great if you’re frequently handling your collection! They typically feature a tab that extends past the edge of the record so you can label each section.
Rent Your Vinyl Record Storage at Storage Star
Vinyl records are timeless treasures for music lovers, but they require special storage solutions to maintain their value and sound quality. Climate-controlled self-storage units provide the ideal environment to protect your records from temperature fluctuations, humidity, and other forms of damage.
At Storage Star, we provide secure, climate-controlled vinyl record storage solutions to keep your vinyl albums in top shape. With convenient locations nationwide, we make it easy to store and access your records whenever you're ready to enjoy them.
Looking for the best self-storage solution for your vinyl records? Find a Storage Star location near you today!
