The Best Vinyl Record Storage Options for Collectors

You may have a small collection of vinyl records or a vast selection of hundreds of albums. Whatever the size of your group, it is essential to organize vinyl carefully and look into different vinyl record storage options.

However, both the organization and vinyl record storage options should address style and functionality. So, how do you address the storage aspect to ensure that your valued collection remains safe and sound in the long-term?

Factors Affecting VINYL RECORD STORAGE OPTIONS

You must address the following four key factors when considering the storage option for your vinyl record collection.

i. Heat

It is better to store your records at room temperature or lower. Room temperature ranges from 59 degrees to 77 degrees. Also, you must keep the vinyl away from vents, radiators, and grills.

ii. Light

You should preferably not expose your vinyl to light. Even if it is impossible to keep the storage location away from illumination, there should be minimal exposure. Thus, make sure there is no direct exposure to direct light.

Vinyl is highly susceptible to UV rays. The UV light can damage your records within minutes. Therefore, it is also recommended to store them away from a bright window.

iii. Humidity

When it comes to vinyl, you should follow a simple principle. They should be kept in a dry and cool place. The ideal conditions will have 35% to 40% relative humidity. So, if you have an extensive collection, it is recommended to have a hygrometer. Moreover, they are affordable and allow you to measure your room’s humidity.

iv. Pressure

The pressure is also an essential factor for determining which storage option will make sense for your vinyl record collection.

Avoid stacking anything on your records or their storage system
Also, avoid stacking records on top of each other
Even when storing records, make sure you keep them apart and not tightly
There should also be enough room between the records to allow easy access

There are even more factors to be kept in mind when creating the storage system for your records collection.

A vinyl record’s structural integrity can get affected by strong vibrations. However, it requires creating a storage system that is away from speakers and other moving appliances in your home. Also, make sure to store records of similar diameter together. So, 10-inch vinyl should be kept with records of the same width and not with 12-inch discs. Furthermore, you should separate records of different diameter using a divider.

Types of Storage Options

So, when it comes to storage options, consider the benefits of the following systems before making the right choice.

1. Individual Record Displays

Album frames have standard size as picture frames and can be perfect for showcasing your vinyl records. Thus, they are perfect for showing album covers on your walls, similar to other art pieces. Also, they are fabulous from an aesthetic perspective but are ideal for only showcasing your most valued selections.

We do not recommend this method for albums that you play regularly. It will mean that the frame will have to be removed from the wall to access the record. Single and double-size record ledges are ideal solutions in this regard. That’s because, they allow you to display your records and at the same time, access and play them with ease. At the same time, you can choose from a wide range of stylish options too. There are different wood and stain options to choose from and are quite affordable.

2. Shelves & Cabinets

There are many record storage shelf and cabinet designs to choose your best product.

i. IKEA Kallax

It is a simple and widely popular shelf with vinyl record collectors.

They can be used both horizontally and vertically
It is also possible to add doors
Choose from 9 unique finishes and colors
Shelves have the right size for storing vinyl records

ii. Crosley ST66-PA Manchester Entertainment Center Stand

If your collection includes not more than 50 LPs, you should consider this stand. It is a retro piece that is beautiful and can also work as a side table. It is also an affordable storage system.

iii. CB2 Dean Record Cabinet

It is an elegant record cabinet and is perfect for those who can spend a little more. If you are an ardent vinyl collector who likes to showcase their collection, this can be the center of attraction in your living or sitting room. It features thin copper legs supporting a beautiful mango wood shelf.

iv. Urban Outfitters Corner Store Vinyl Storage Rack

It is a metal storage rack with multiple pockets for storing your records. It has a superb vintage appeal to it and allows you to showcase your collection. If you are looking for a storage system with excellent space efficiency, this retro-designed unit can be ideal for you.

v. Novogratz Concord Turntable Stand

It is a durable stand that is just the perfect size, not only for your vinyl record but also for your turntable. A side stand is available with or without drawers.

Some of the critical features of this storage option include the following:

It is a medium brown woodgrain laminated board
Black metal hairpin legs add a retro appeal
There is a large upper cubby for keeping favorite labels and four more cubbies down for storing your collection
The stand can withstand 30 lbs and the large cubby, 25 lbs and the drawer-based unit can hold up to 60 lbs

vi. Winsome Wood 92314 Leo

The Winsome Wood Leo 2-Section Open Storage Shelf is perfect for adding practical storage to any room. The height and depth of its cabins are just the right sizes for storing your records collection.

Some of the significant points and benefits include:

Adding depth and exotic feel to any space
Warm, contemporary styled storage option
Blends in with a wide range of décor
You can top it with a flower pot or lamp

vii. VRSS Vinyl Record Storage Shelf

It is a 3-cube wooden vinyl record shelf for those having a decent collection. The cubes have perfect sizes for records. The key features include:

Available in different color options
Store 50 to 70 records in a single hub
You can use it both horizontally or vertically
Measures 44.5 inches in height, 15 inches in width, and 17 inches in depth

3. Long-Term VINYL RECORD STORAGE OPTIONS

Many collectors can have hundreds of records, and most of them may need to be tucked away and taken out just once a year or so. If that is the case with you, then the following vinyl storage options are for you.

i. Odyssey CLP200P Carpeted Pro LP Case

If you have a collection as large as 200 LPs, you should consider this Odyssey case with recessed hardware. The key features here include the following:

Store and carry up to 200 vinyl records
Measures 28 inches wide by 14.5 inches deep by 14 inches high
Unique black carpet exterior lining adds class and a premium touch
The lid can be fully detached
Flat steel corners
Soft gripped spring-loaded handles
1/2 inch ply construction

It is designed to hold 12-inch records. This storage option allows you to both stores your collection for an extended period and move it safely.

ii. Victrola Wooden Record Crate

If you have a collection of over 50 records, you should consider the Victrola Wooden Record Crate. Some of the key features include the following:

Stores more than 50 records
Complete wooden construction
Holds different sizes of LPs including 33s, 45s, and 78s
Easy to assemble

You can use it for storing and keeping your records in one place. It is not recommended to life and move it with the records.

Storage Considerations for different VINYL RECORD STORAGE OPTIONS

There is more to storing and protecting your vinyl records collection than choosing the right storage system. Make sure to follow these helpful hints to ensure your collection’s protection:

You should store the Vinyl records in their original sleeve that they come in. You should, however, first place them inside a static-free polyethylene line.
Not only the records, but you should also store the record covers in a plastic sleeve
If you are going to store your collection in shelving, make sure it is durable to support the overall weight
Prefer wooden vinyl record storage options because they help reduce or eliminate static compared to metal options
When kept on the shelf, you should separate the records by the firm and immovable dividers after every 4 to 6 inches. The dividers should support the entire disc.

Final Thoughts on VINYL RECORD STORAGE OPTIONS!

So make sure to consider all these tips and points and all the storage options when looking for the right storage system for your records collection. We suggest you choose something durable and longer-lasting. You may also think about and consider the size of your selection in the future before making the right choice. As a collector, you would expect your collection to keep increasing with time. So the storage unit should also be able to accommodate more LPs in the future.