The best vinyl record storage for your growing collection

Perhaps the sign that you’re becoming a proper vinyl collector is when you make the executive decision to find the best vinyl record storage. After all, we want to keep our precious records safe and sound. If your collection is growing, you’re going to need ample space for what you have – and beyond that, too. For many of us, vinyl storage is the opportunity to show off our collection.

For your collection to truly make a statement, keeping your precious discs in tip-top shape take more than just an ultrasonic record cleaner. When looked after and stored correctly, vinyl records can last for decades, which is a comforting thought. If not stored correctly, your records can get warped and distorted, which can totally ruin the unmistakable sound of your vinyl-friendly speakers.

Best vinyl record storage at a glance:

• Best multimedia cabinet: Chicago Multimedia Cabinet – View Offer at Wayfair
• Great for a growing collection: Charles Jacobs Vinyl Record Box Unit – View Offer on Amazon UK
• Display your records: Vinyl Addict Record Store in Rosewood – View Offer at Gear4Music

Lovers of music have cherished their precious records since the invention of the gramophone in the 19th century. Vinyl records fast became a popular medium, with many households owning a vinyl record player to spin their favourite tracks. Soon after, vinyl became overshadowed by cassettes and CDs – but, they had not been forgotten by audiophiles. Following a resurgence, vinyl tech has evolved far from turntable stereo amps – to compact players with Bluetooth capabilities.

Unlike CDs and cassettes, vinyl records are pretty heard-wearing and could see you through for a while. Importantly, the way you handle, care for and store your vinyl impacts its longevity. Things like heat, humidity and pressure and a big no-no. Our advice: don’t cram your vinyl records into the nearest space on your shelves. On that note, let’s find you some record storage solutions with the best vinyl record storage.

Buyer’s guide

There are some important factors to consider when shopping for the best vinyl record storage:

Size of Collection – will come into play when opting for a storage solution. Make sure to buy some storage that suits your collection best, perhaps sizing up for collections that tend to grow.

Style – may be an important factor for you. Luckily, there are plenty of types to suit all décor, from mid-century modern-inspired pieces, ideal for the Lenco LS-100 Turntable, or something modern.

Space – in your home will influence the solution you opt for. If you’re looking for something space-saving, consider a full-fledged cabinet or console table, ideal for some bookcase speakers.

Material – should be considered. You should grab storage that is durable, but smooth; ideally, this should be made from wood or plastic. Metal may work for smaller collections, too.

Spacing – is important to ensuring records are kept safe and secure. It’s best to find storage that has shelves and divisions to balance out any pressure, as well as sturdy enough to support vinyl well.

Frequently Asked Questions

How best to store vinyl records

Thanks to retailer Norman Records, we have some sage advice on how to store vinyl records. Once cleaned and popped back into the outer sleeves, what is next for your discs? We’ve written a guide on fostering an optimum environment for your vinyl babies:

Natural Elements

Heat – can affect our beloved records. As a general rule of thumb, keep them away from any heat sources, such as radiators and sunlight. “A room temperature of 15°C to 25°C is optimal,” they add, providing that you haven’t got an issue with damp.

Light – will damage your vinyl records within a few minutes. Though we want our collection out on display, try storing them in permanent shade, says Norman Records – as “minimal exposure to all kinds of light is best, with no exposure at all to direct or intense light.”

Humidity – is another factor to steer clear of. As Norman Records says: “vinyl records should be stored in a dry environment (about 35-40% relative humidity).” Though it is quite unlikely that you would, don’t set up shop in the bathroom or kitchen.

More To Consider

Pressure – may be the most important factor for storing your records correctly. Overall, Norman Records says that keeping your records upright, with “minimal force pressing against them” will relieve your records from any sleeve damage and warping.

This can be avoided by stacking your vinyl records vertically (only) and never on top of one another. It’s tempting to cram them together, says Norman Records. Ideally, you want “enough space to easily flip through them.” Resist the urge to store the records tightly together, for sure.

Visibility – prevents us from forgetting about our collection. So, Norman Records have taken a stand against storing vinyl records in the loft or cellars, as they won’t receive the care and attention they require. Plus, where’s the fun in a collection you can’t access?

Vibration – can affect the structural integrity of our records, says Norman Records. Actually, the brand recommends keeping your records “a reasonable distance from speakers, washers, dryers”. This may sound a little odd, given the speaker’s role in listening to your collection.

Size Matters – says Norman Records – as similar diameters should be stored together, and differing sizes should be kept apart. As mentioned earlier, pressure is a big factor in housing vinyl and popping different sizes in one another may cause warping in the 10- and 12-inch records.

How to build the best vinyl record storage

If you’re looking to conquer the world of DIY and manufacture your own, then why not? This way, you can personalise and create a storage solution around your needs, requirements and collection size. For this, we have a few tips for before, during and after:

Firstly, determine the number of records you wish to store and space in your room. Then, you will be able to decide on the dimensions and capacity of your storage unit as such. Precise measurements are essential since the records shouldn’t feel too cramped in their new homes.

For this, consider plywood or MDF for a budget-friendly base. Remember to grab some wood stain and glue for assembly. Most importantly, test and adjust the structure for stability. After all, you don’t want your new storage collapsing and your precious collection sprawling out on the floor.

Sow The Land’s DIY Minimal Record Shelf is customisable and straightforward:

Piper Huxley is a Homes, Garden and Wellness Product Writer for What's the Best, an all-rounder when it comes to the home and our wellness. When she’s not at her desk, she’s practising yoga, collecting vinyl records and tending to her houseplants.

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