Good storage keeps records playable and valuable. Most damage we see comes from a few avoidable mistakes.
Store records upright
Keep records standing vertically, snug but not squeezed. Stacking them flat puts weight on the bottom records and causes warps and ring wear on covers.
Keep them cool and dry
Heat warps vinyl and moisture causes mold on covers and labels. Garages, attics and outdoor sheds are the most common places we see damaged collections. A closet or shelf inside the home is much better.
Use inner and outer sleeves
Paper inner sleeves can scuff records over time; many collectors switch to anti-static inner sleeves. Clear outer sleeves protect covers from shelf wear.
Keep them out of direct sun
Sunlight fades covers and can heat records enough to warp them.
Selling a collection that's been in storage?
Don't try to clean moldy records yourself. Photograph them as they are, tell us where they were stored, and request a free appraisal.