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Properly storing your beloved vinyl records is the only way to ensure that they age gracefully and remain valuable for years to come. There is nothing worse than a warped and scratched record, but one that has been stored properly will increase in value as the years pass by. Follow the tips below to preserve your records.

1. Clean your vinyl records prior to storing.

Dust can become embedded in the grooves of a record and cause poor sound quality. First wash your hands or wear archival quality gloves so that you do not get oily fingerprints on the records. Then you should use an appropriate cleaner. There are several different ways to clean a record. Some people rinse the record with distilled water and wipe it dry with a micro fiber cloth. Others use a Swiffer cloth or brush. I recommend using an appropriate cleaner or brush made specifically for record cleaning. You can also invest in a vacuum made specifically for record cleaning.

2. Place the clean and dry record into a new paper sleeve.

You can place the newly sleeved record into the original cover jacket (along with the original sleeve and any inserts). Some collectors use a plain cover jacket and place it along side the originals. This helps to preserve the original jacket by preventing seam splits. In either case, put your record and jacket into an anti-static outer sleeve.

3. Store in a proper storage environment.

A climate controlled environment that is clean, cool, and dry is best. Extreme temperatures (especially heat) will warp vinyl records, so keep your storage area away from direct sun light and other heat sources. Humidity will cause mold and mildew, which affects the cover, label and grooves. Do not store your records in the attic, the garage, or the basement.

4. Store the record in an upright, 90 degree angle.

It is extremely important that you do not stack records. Always store records in a vertical, upright position. This prevents warping and stress damage to the record and cover. If you store your records on a shelf, make sure the shelf is deep enough and there is no overhang. Shelves, cabinets, crates, and record holding racks make great storage devices.

5. Consider organizing and cataloguing your collection.

If your records are organized, you will be able to easily pull out what you want instead of sliding out record after record (and causing damage). This may take some time with large collections, so it is best to always organize as you add new records to your collection. Some collectors like to use a computer database system, but an old fashioned index card works wonders as well. Use a system that works best for you.

The best way to preserve your records is to properly store them. Make sure your records are clean, organized and placed in an appropriate storage area. This will ensure that your collection appreciates in value instead of becoming a bunch of old useless records.

Learn more about this author, Zoe Trudeaux.
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