How to Store Your Record Collection At Home
Let these expert-approved tips guide you on how to store your vinyls like a pro
Most of us thought that vinyl records were a thing of the past, but this classic way of listening to music is on trend nowadays, with everyone from Millennials to Gen X'ers investing in this practice. But having a vinyl collection is more than just keeping up with the current trend—it also requires a lot of hard work and dedication.
These tips, including some from former Real Living art director Joanne Baja Enriquez, will help you keep your collection in good condition and preserve it for longer.
Keep your records upright
An important thing to note when storing records is to keep them in vertical position. Stacking records on top of one another causes damage on them, in the form of scuffs and cracks on the records, and even tarnishing on the album sleeves.
Joanne also shares a fun tool to use in storing your collection: crates. You may arrange them alphabetically or by genre, it’s all up to you. This makes a great display by itself. Looking for the next record to play is part of the fun, even if you’re digging crates at home.”
Dress your records in dust covers
It is also important to keep your records—both the vinyls and their sleeves—wrapped in dust covers. “Dust covers for every plaka helps keep alikabok (dust) at bay,” Joanna shares. Dust covers are available in record stores, as well as online.
It’s not just your records that should be prevented from dust, but also your turntable. Make sure to wrap it in a dust cover to keep it in pristine, dust-free condition.
Keep your vinyls clean
Another way to prevent build-up of dirt and dust on your records is by regularly cleaning these using a record cleaning brush, or even a vinyl-cleaning solution. These are also available online and in record shops.
Return the record to its sleeve right away
After listening to your record, make sure to return it into its appropriate sleeve right away. Being left on the turntable for too long can also cause accumulation of dust and dirt on the record, which would ruin its sound quality.
Handle records with care
When handling a record, make sure to only touch its edge. Human fingers contain oils that may cause damage on the record, and you might accidentally scratch the grooves.
Keep your collection in a dry and cool place
Keeping your collection in an area that receives a lot of sunlight and heat is a big no-no, as this will also damage the records. Best to keep your collection in a place where it will only receive minimal exposure to light and where there is room temperature.
