5 CARE TIPS FOR COLLECTORS
Some things just get better with time— your favorite jeans, your favorite stories, your favorite albums. But if you’re a record lover, you know that a vinyl collection is only as good as the care you put into it. There’s nothing like pulling out an LP you bought years ago and hearing it play as beautifully as the day you bought it.
That said, vinyl isn’t indestructible. Unlike digital music, records are physical objects that can warp, scratch, collect dust, and age prematurely unless they’re stored properly.
Here are some easy and effective tips to help keep your records looking and sounding sharp for years to come:
1. STAND THEM UP, DON'T STACK THEM
It’s easy to let a new stack of records pile up, but DON’T DO IT! Vinyl is designed to be stored upright, just like books. Stacking your records puts pressure on the ones at the bottom, which can cause warping, ring wear on the covers, or even permanent damage to the grooves.
If you want to ensure that your records have a proper home, investing in a wooden crate or shelf is definitely the way to go. As long as it’s sturdy and big enough to fit the full jacket without cramming, your vinyl is 100% better off than whatever stack you’ve got going on right now.
If you’re looking to upgrade your storage, this article includes several solid shelf and crate options:
2. TEMPERATURE & HUMIDITY MATTER
Records are surprisingly climate-sensitive. High heat (above 80°F/27°C) can warp records, while excess humidity can lead to mold and mildew — especially in garages, basements, or attics.
It’s best to stick to cool, dry environments with stable temperatures. If the room is comfortable for you, it’s likely suitable for your records too. The Library of Congress recommends between 65–70°F and 45–50% humidity for optimal preservation.
Also, keeping your collection in a living space gives it the attention it deserves. Album covers are works of art, so why not keep them on display? That way, you get the best of both worlds: temperature-safe storage and a space that showcases your collection.
3. SLEEVE UP FOR EXTRA PROTECTION
Yes, original paper sleeves are nostalgic, but they can get rough and abrasive over time. Replacing old sleeves with new anti-static ones helps minimize static buildup and micro-scratches. For even better protection, placing each jacket into a clear poly outer sleeve will shield it from dust and damage while preserving the artwork.
Here are some protective sleeve options we recommend:
4. AVOID THE SUN
Direct sunlight is a silent destroyer of vinyl. Prolonged UV exposure can warp records and fade album covers quickly, and unfortunately, no one has come up with a sunscreen for vinyl yet. So until that happens, make sure to store your collection away from windows or any other source of heat.
5. HANDLE YOUR VINYL WITH CARE
One of the best parts of vinyl is getting to physically hold it in your hands, but it’s important to handle your records with care. Always hold them with clean hands, use both hands when removing them, and avoid touching the grooves directly. These small habits make a big difference and help keep your records in great shape so future listens sound just as good as the first spin.
FINAL THOUGHTS
A well-kept collection only gets better with age. Proper vinyl storage isn’t complicated; it’s mostly about attention, care, and a little bit of ritual. Treat your records right, and they’ll reward you with that warm analog sound for decades to come.
Happy Spinning!
