A Guide To Storing Your Vinyl Records
by Erin Mitchell
If you have an extensive vinyl record collection and decide to keep safe inside a storage unit, you need to know how to store them. Excessive heat, cold temperatures, and moisture can ruin vinyl records within a matter of minutes. By storing your classic vinyl record collection correctly, you're protecting them for many years to come.
Temperature Controlled
The temperature at which you should store your vinyl records depends on how long you plan on keeping them in storage. If you plan on getting them back out of storage in a few weeks, storing them at 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit will keep them safe. If you plan on keeping them in the storage unit any longer than that, they need to be stored in 45 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent damage.
Moisture Issues
Moisture on vinyl records is not a good thing. Not only can mold and mildew grow on them, but they can warp when excessive moisture builds up. Placing the vinyl records inside a protective box or case can prevent moisture issues that might arise inside a storage unit. Storage units are breeding grounds for mold and mildew because they are dark. Preventing moisture from building up will prevent mold and mildew from calling your vinyl record collection home.
The Containers
Containers used for storing records should never be wood or metal. Cardboard boxes are fine as long as they have a lid and are made from acid and lignin free cardboard. If the containers can hold a static charge, they should not be used. When placing the vinyl records inside the box, you should keep them loosely packed together. This gives them room to breathe and makes the box a bit lighter.
Vinyl records are prone to warping, for this reason, how they are packed in the containers is equally important. Make sure the records are able to remain upright. The records are much more likely to warp while they are in storage if you have them slanted in a box or container.
Keep Them Off the Floors
Never stack the boxes on top of each other, or place them on the floor. The floor collects moisture and rodents can get into the boxes. Invest in shelving units or rent a storage unit that comes equipped with them to keep the boxes off the floor. This will make it more difficult for rodents and insects to get to the boxes.
Not only are you protecting your investment and your collection, but you're helping the environment by not throwing your vinyl records into the trash bin. By using these tips, you can ensure the records do not become moldy, warped, cracked, or damaged in storage.
To check out local storage units, contact a company such as Colfax West Self Storage.
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About Me
For the past several years, my friend worked as a waitress at a local restaurant. Although she enjoyed her job, she started to want to do something different with her life. After some research, she decided to start a new business. She began purchasing storage units. After buying them, she inspects the inventory in them. She then sells the inventory on the internet. So far, she’s enjoying her new career as an entrepreneur. She’s always amazed at the type of items she finds in the storage units she buys. On this blog, you will discover how to start a new business venture by selling inventory found in purchased storage units.