Storing vinyl records: top tips

How to care for your vinyl records so they always sound like new

Having a vinyl collection is like having a sound gallery at home. But if you don't take proper care of them, that musical journey can end up sounding more like a click than a melody. Here's a complete and practical guide to keeping your records pristine and ready to play whenever nostalgia or the groove strikes.

Goodbye, static: your silent enemy

That crack that creeps in between songs isn't always retro romanticism. Often, it's built-up static electricity. The friction of the record spinning on the platter attracts dust like a magnet. The solution?

• Always keep the turntable lid closed while playing.
• Before storing, wipe it with an anti-static brush or soft cloth.
• And if you want to take things to the next level, electric blowers remove particles without touching the vinyl or generating additional charge.

Play vinyl like it's gold (because it is)

Your fingers leave grease and microscopic debris behind every time you handle a record. And that, over time, affects the sound. The best part:

• Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the needle.
• Or use nitrile gloves for handling without direct contact.
• Always hold it by the edges or the center hole.

It sounds exaggerated, but trust me: your vinyl (and your ears) will notice.

Deep cleaning: when, how and with what

If you notice traces or something sounds strange after several listens, it's time for a thorough cleaning. Here's how to do it without ruining your collection:

• Use professional vinyl cleaner and apply it with a velvet or microfiber brush.
• Always use deionized water , not tap water.
• Protect the label with a circular accessory (if you don't have one, improvise carefully).
• Shine an LED flashlight or UV light to inspect the grooves.
• Also clean the outer sleeve, especially if it has sticker residue on it.

Renew the inner covers: protect from within

Acid-laced paper sleeves are a long-term trap. If they're dirty from the factory or have accumulated dust, they can ruin your records without you even realizing it.

Upgrade to quality anti-static sleeves. If the original contains valuable art or information, store it separately in good condition.

Location matters: where to store your vinyl records

A record can sound perfect today and be unusable in six months if you store it incorrectly. So:

• Avoid garages, storage rooms or damp areas.
• Do not place them next to radiators or windows with direct sunlight.
• The temperature should be stable and the relative humidity between 35% and 40%.
• Use desiccants (Prosorb capsules) to keep the climate under control.
• Place a thermohygrometer to ensure the environment is ideal.

Your vinyls don't want climate drama.

How to store them: vertical, organized, and happy

Never stack your records. I repeat: never . The weight warps, scratches, and ruins them. It's best to have a good vinyl storage system that keeps them upright and organized:

• Use a wooden box to store vinyl , without acids or aggressive adhesives.
• If you're into modern, opt for 30x30 storage boxes with UV protection.
• For smaller collections, a good 12-record case also does the job.
• And if you also want to display your favorites, nothing beats some good floating shelves or wall shelves to give them visual prominence.

One last piece of advice (from collector to collector)

Group by size: 12" with 12", 7" with 7". Use dividers or index cards to avoid searching through each box. And if your box isn't full yet, line it with acid-free tissue paper to keep them upright.

A well-mounted vinyl record rack is more than just practical: it's a place for your collection.

Taking care of your vinyl records isn't just a maintenance task: it's an act of love. With this care, every time you play that special record, it will sound as good as the first day. And that, my friend, is priceless.