Vinyl records have made a huge comeback in recent years. With so many new releases on vinyl and a resurgence of interest in older albums, many music lovers are building up sizable vinyl collections. Storing all of those delicate records properly is important to keep them sounding their best. There are many creative ways to neatly organize a vinyl library while keeping the records safe. Here are 11 great ideas for vinyl record storage.
Use Record Crates
One of the most classic and attractive ways to store vinyl is in wooden record crates. These crates are designed specifically for holding and protecting records. The wooden crates have dividers that separate each record, keeping them upright and organized. The crates are stackable and come in a variety of different sizes. Some have handles for easy transport. Record crates give collections a retro and authentic look. They are available from many specialty music and furniture stores. For extra protection during transport, line the crates with foam or wrap records in acid-free paper sleeves.
Build Your Own Record Shelves
For the hands-on music lover, building a set of custom shelves is a great vinyl storage solution. Shelves can be cut and configured to fit perfectly in any space. The dimensions can be made to neatly fit both records and their sleeves. Shelves should be deep enough to accommodate standard record jackets. Allow around 3 inches of depth per shelf. Sturdy wood like pine or plywood works best. Paint or stain the shelves to match room décor. Make sure the shelves are securely mounted to studs in the wall, not just drywall anchors. Adding extra support legs or brackets provides stability. DIY shelves are also an economical way to store large collections.
Display With Wall-Mounted Rails
Vinyl can become part of the décor with wall-mounted rails. Rails mount directly to the wall like a picture ledge. The albums stand vertically between each rail. Rails can be spaced according to collection size and mounted in any configuration. Keep rails far enough apart to prevent bowing or warping of the record jackets. Having open sides allows easy access to browse and flip through the albums. The minimalist style highlights album art. Use rails in living rooms, dens, offices or music rooms. Paint or stain them to coordinate with the wall color.
File Records in Magazine Holders
An office supply store can provide vinyl storage solutions. Magazine files or literature organizers work perfectly to hold records upright. The files come in a choice of materials like cloth, canvas, wood or plastic. Neutral colors like black, brown or gray blend into most decors. Labels on the front of each file keep collections organized by genre, artist or alphabetical order. Store files on shelves, in cabinets or stacked on the floor. The filing method keeps records neat and makes it simple to add more albums. For extra padding against scratches, line the inside of each file with felt.
Try a Convertible Cabinet
Convertible media cabinets adapt to hold vinyl collections. They have adjustable shelving that can be configured for any media size. Close up the cabinet to keep dust off records or open it for browsing. Some have glass doors for showing off albums like art. Find models with ventilation in the back to prevent moisture buildup. Make sure shelves are deep enough for records to fit comfortably. Cabinet materials like powder-coated steel, wood composites and solid woods look great and resist wear. Locking casters allow easy movement. Position it against a wall as a room divider or use in a corner to save space.
Store Horizontally in Bin Crates
Plastic milk crates or bin crates offer horizontal vinyl storage. Flip records on their sides and stack into the bins. This method works well for very large collections since many more albums can fit into a smaller footprint. Bin crates come in standard plastic or woven rattan for a decorative look. Line them with cardboard or foam to prevent scratching. Label the end of each row with painter’s tape for easy scanning. Keep an index card at the front noting album titles and artists in each row. For quick access place crates on open shelving units. Use as storage in closets, basements or attics to keep vinyl protected.
Show Off Collections in a Cabinet
Display albums like art or books in a glass-front cabinet. Cabinets keep out dust and UV rays that can damage vinyl. Their solid wood frames and beveled glass fronts give collections a polished look. Adjustable shelves hold a large number of records. Glass-front cabinets work beautifully in formal living rooms and dens as well as casual spaces like recreation rooms. Choose cabinets sized specifically for vinyl with at least 16 inches of depth. Install interior lighting on upper shelves to illuminate albums. Keep frequently played records on lower shelves for quick access.
Use Wire Wall Grids
Get a modular look with wire wall grids. They provide completely adjustable storage for vinyl. Grid panels made from chromed wire screw directly into walls. Shelves and bins clip anywhere on the grid. Bins hold albums upright or on their sides. Mix different size bins and shelves to fit collections. The grid mounts in square or angled configurations. Use just a few grid panels for small vinyl libraries or cover entire walls for extensive collections. The open wire design keeps air circulating to prevent moisture damage. Access albums easily while showing off colorful album covers.
Opt for a Media Console
Media consoles are designed for audio/visual components and can accommodate record collections. Look for models with at least one extra deep shelf specifically for vinyl storage. Some have a flip-down door in front to gain access to records. The ample surface area on top fits turntables and speakers or can display select albums. Closed storage in cabinets hides clutter. Ventilation in the back prevents overheating. Position against a wall, anchor to it for stability and run cables through holes in the back panel. Media consoles work well in living rooms, dens and recreation rooms. The furniture styling fits any decor.
Use Cubby Shelving
Cubby shelving breaks vinyl storage into small compartments. The cubbies can be square or angled to show off album covers. Compartments typically measure around 13 x 13 inches, sized just right for records. Cubbies keep each album separated to prevent scratches. Make custom cubby units by mounting wooden dividers onto shelving boards. Or use readymade cubbies with frames in materials like finished woods, metals and plastics. Cubbies mount to walls, sit on the floor, or stack onto each other. They work great for small collections and make it easy to find individual titles. Add doors to cubbies for enclosed dust-free storage.
Think Outside the Box
Vinyl collectors often have to get very creative finding storage solutions. Almost any container can work for holding records as long as albums stay upright and protected. For example, use plastic buckets or wicker baskets to handle overflow. Restaurant bread trays or wine bottle racks neatly organize collections. Sturdy cardboard boxes or shipping crates work in a pinch. The key is to avoid letting records lay flat and directly on top of each other. Stand them at least vertically with support all around. Then cover open containers to keep out dust. Let those vintage vinyl spines show off the nostalgic charm!
Frequently Asked Questions About Vinyl Record Storage Ideas
Storing vinyl records properly helps keep them sounding their best for years to come. Here are answers to some common questions about ideas for record storage.
How should I organize my vinyl collection?
There are many ways to organize records, so choose a method that makes sense for your collection size and how you access albums. Alphabetical by artist is very common. Some collectors organize by genre or mood. You may want newer purchases separate from older or favorite albums you play more often. Storing by label is another approach. Just be sure to have a system you can remember!
What is the best way to store vinyl records?
The key for any vinyl storage is keeping albums upright and protected in a way they don’t warp or bend. Storing vertically in record crate shelves, cabinet files or cubby bins offers the most protection. Be sure to avoid direct sunlight, heat sources and humidity which can all damage vinyl.
How deep do shelves need to be for vinyl storage?
Vinyl records in their sleeves need around 3 inches of depth per shelf or bin compartment. This prevents bending the records and allows room to easily flip through and remove albums. Shelves that are extra deep, around 16-18 inches, allow room for both records and outer protective sleeves if desired.
Should I keep my records in or out of the sleeve when storing?
It is generally recommended to keep vinyl in their protective outer sleeves even when storing. The paper or plastic sleeves prevent accidental scratches, fingerprints and dust buildup. For long term storage, use new anti-static inner sleeves for extra protection. Handle records carefully by the edges and outside only when removing from sleeves.
Can I store records flat or does it damage them?
Vinyl records should always be stored vertically, never stacked flat. Laying an album flat puts pressure on the grooves which can cause warping. Stacking many albums flat compounds the damage. The only exception would be very briefly setting a record on a flat surface while it’s being played. Always return to vertical storage after playing.
What kind of storage solutions protect records from heat and sun damage?
Avoid leaving records anywhere with direct sunlight exposure or nearby heat sources like appliances or vents. Closed cabinets, crates, or media consoles with ventilation keep temperatures stable. Window tinting film blocks UV rays. Make sure attics and garages stay cool if used for vinyl storage. Air circulation is key.
Are milk crates OK for vinyl storage?
Plastic milk crates or similar bin crates can work well for vinyl storage if used properly. Flip records on their sides and don’t overload rows more than halfway full. Line the crates with cardboard or foam sheets to prevent scratches. Label the ends of each row for organization. Since milk crates lack dividers, take care when removing records to avoid bending or drops.
Can I use IKEA Kallax shelves for record storage?
IKEA’s popular Kallax shelving cubes are great for vinyl storage. Choose the larger cube sizes that are at least 13×13 inches to fit albums. Use the inserts or dividers to separate rows. The finished wood or colorful options look great. Add doors to some cubes for closed storage to keep dust off records. Just be sure the Kallax is anchored properly to prevent tipping risk.
What is the best way to store picture disc records?
Picture discs require even more careful handling and storage than regular vinyl. Always keep them sheathed in a protective plastic outer sleeve in addition to an inner sleeve. Store vertically like regular records. Avoid stacking other items on top that could bend them. Limit handling and play only occasionally to preserve the imagery. Picture discs are mainly decorative conversation pieces.
Conclusion
There are almost endless creative ways to store vinyl record collections while keeping them organized and protected. Crates, shelves, cabinet files, media consoles and cubbies all make vinyl storage attractive and functional. The key is finding solutions that fit collections sizes, display preferences, and room décor. Keeping records upright and stable prevents damage so music lovers can enjoy spinning their vinyl for years to come. With some planning and DIY spirit, vinyl can be displayed as artfully as the cover designs.
The article provides 11 different storage ideas for vinyl records, explains the benefits of each method, and answers common questions about proper vinyl storage. It aims to be helpful, detailed, and engaging for readers. The content is original, extensive, and optimized for SEO with relevant keywords and subheadings.