Vinyl Record Care & Storage - LP 45 78

Proper storage is imperative to preserving the life of your record collection.  The vinyl itself should be put into a new inner sleeve.  This can be either an acid free paper or poly sleeve.  The cover should also be stored in its own protective sleeve.  Staples sell a 13" by 13" bubble wrap bag that is perfect for this.  Store the vinyl in its new sleeve, out of the cover, either in front of or behind the cover in the bubble wrap bag.  This will prevent excessive ring wear from damaging the cover.

Records must always be put in an upright position for storage, never in a horizantal postition or in a pile.  This will prevent warping to the vinyl.  There are a variety of storage bins on the market, such as Rubbermaid, that you can store your records in.  Many come with a snap on lid that will keep the records air tight.

Finally, keep your collection away from any type of direct heat or sunlight.  Attics, with their hot and cold cycles, do not make great storage areas.  Basements are fine, as long as you use a dehumidifier and empty it on a regular basis. 

With proper care, your record collection, whether LP 45 or 78 will give you years of listening pleasure and enjoyment.