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Reviewed by Matthew Ashton
Vinyl records are more than just music. They’re history, art and passion spun into grooves. Not only do they hold sentimental value, but they can also have huge financial value.
Do you know what the most expensive vinyl record ever sold was? It was a copy of a 2015 album by Wu-Tang Clan, the one and only copy ever produced, and it was sold for $4 million in 2021. Now, although you may not have that specific album, you might have a number of valuable LPs in your collection, and it’s important to know how to take care of them.
In this article, we’ll explore the best practices for protecting your collection from environmental damage, poor storage habits, and everyday wear and tear.
Why proper vinyl storage matters
Vinyl is a delicate format. Exposure to heat, humidity, and sunlight can warp records, degrade sound quality, and even cause permanent damage. If your collection is stored in the improper conditions, it could get damaged, and would likely result in the value dropping significantly.
Choosing the right environment for vinyl storage
To keep your records in top condition, store them in a cool, dry and dark environment.
- Cool – The ideal temperature is between 18–21°C, so avoid cold basements, hot attics or spots next to radiators.
- Dry – The storage area should have a humidity level of roughly 45-50%. If the humidity is too high mould can become an issue, too low and it can cause static build-up. Consider using a hygrometer to monitor humidity and a dehumidifier if your space tends to be damp.
- Dark – Avoid placing records near windows. Direct sunlight can fade album covers and warp vinyl, so always store records away from UV exposure.
Proper storage isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about longevity and performance.
Best practices for storing vinyl records
Vinyl records should always be stored vertically, as stacking them flat can lead to warping over time due to uneven pressure.
Store your vinyl record collection in an upright position and add dividers to prevent records from leaning at an angle, as this can also cause warping and sleeve damage.
Essential storage supplies every collector needs
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your records is by using quality sleeves. Sleeves protect your vinyl’s from dust and mould, which can settle into the grooves of your LP, affecting playback and potentially damaging your stylus.
There are two types of sleeves:
- Inner sleeves – protect the record from dust, static buildup and scratches. You can get different types of inner sleeves: rice paper, anti-static polyethylene.
- Outer sleeves – protect the vinyl jacket from dust, moisture and fingerprints/shelf wear. You can choose between polypropylene or polyethylene outer sleeves.
Top Tip
Avoid PVC sleeves. There has been great debate on whether PVC sleeves are safe to use or not. Some collectors who have used PVC sleeves have noticed issues like hazing, misting or the picture sleeves fading.
How to organise your vinyl collection
You can sort your records any way you want. Perhaps alphabetically, by genre, artist, release date, favourites first, whatever suits your listening habits.
A well-organised vinyl collection not only looks great, but it also reduces the amount of handling, in turn reducing the potential damage.
For larger or more valuable collections, consider creating a spreadsheet to track your inventory or using cataloguing apps like Discogs. There are several benefits of doing this:
- It makes it easier to find what you are looking for.
- It ensures you don’t accidentally buy duplicates.
- You’ll be able to determine your coverage needs easier and insure your collection more accurately.
Collections insurance from Stanhope
By following these simple yet effective storage and protection tips, you’ll ensure your records stay in pristine condition for years to come. Treat your vinyl with care, and it will reward you with timeless sound.
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We have been with Stanhope for many years. They are consistently in our corner and look out for us. They provide serious advice, carefully thought through and well researched. Every year we feel we get the right coverage, trading off risk and price appropriately. Very satisfied customers.
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Consistent with our policy when giving comments and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement. In the case of specific problems, we recommend that professional advice be sought.
Sources
https://pitchfork.com/news/wu-tang-clan-once-upon-a-time-in-shaolin-turned-into-nft/