Once the only medium for at-home listening, vinyl records have been superseded by tapes, then CDs, then digital streaming. However, in the past decade, collectors have taken a new interest in vinyl, digging up treasures from the past and buying new pressings. Whether you’re a veteran crate-digger or just started your collection, you may need to store your records at some point. Here’s how you can keep them safe in self-storage.

4 Tips for Keeping Vinyl Records Safe in Self-Storage

1. Clean Them

Before packing your records away in self-storage, clean them with a microfiber cloth or a specially designed record-cleaning brush, which you can find one at most record stores. Cleaning the records before storing them removes dust and dirt that can scuff them while they’re in transit.

2. Pack Them Vertically

If records are stored on top of or leaning on each other, they can exert pressure on the pieces at the bottom of the stack. Over time, this will cause warping that can distort the records’ sound. Store them vertically in a crate or box with a towel or other filler to ensure they remain upright.

3. Find a Climate-Controlled Unit

Temperature fluctuations can cause the vinyl to expand and contract. High humidity can also damage records, cause cardboard covers to warp, and lead to mildew growth. Find a climate-controlled self-storage unit to keep your records safe.

4. Leave the Sleeves On

Every record should be stored in a two-part case: the outer cardboard sleeve that features the album artwork and the inner plastic or paper sleeve that protects against abrasion. If you want to go the extra distance to protect valuable records, consider investing in plastic sleeves to hold each.

Need a safe place for your collection while you’re moving? Vinyl enthusiasts in Texas, Arizona, and Colorado can keep their records safe with Advantage Storage in Flower Mound, TX. Founded two decades ago, they now have 31 locations across the Southwest. To find a self-storage unit near you, visit them online, and call (972) 212-5225 to inquire about renting.