Polypropylene is your best bet for crystal-clear clarity that really makes the artwork pop! The best outer record sleeves are made from Polypropylene or polyethylene. The result is a misting effect on the record, which is audible as hiss. The theory is, because vinyl records are also made from PVC (an oil-based product), the two items can merge given the wrong climate. PVC-based products can cause contamination and serious damage to your records. Traditionally, collectors would buy thick plastic PVC outer sleeves – don’t do that! Advertisements To protect your artwork, and prevent airborne dust from contaminating the record when stored, you also need to invest in outer record sleeves. So much so that almost identical competitor copies are now extremely common (and often cheaper) Check out the Invest In Vinyl Sleeves, which are some of the best inner record sleeves based on the MoFi “rice paper” style. The original polyethylene inner sleeves by MoFi are now considered an industry-standard record sleeve. The safest option is to replace the standard sleeve with a higher-quality polyethylene inner sleeve that will protect against static build-up and contamination. Most new records are shipped with standard paper inner sleeves, which transfer paper flakes onto your record’s surface and can even cause surface wear over time. Inner sleeves are the most critical component in proper vinyl storage, as they’re the only product that will come in direct contact with your records. Store Your Records in the Best Possible Record Sleeves Inner Sleeves If you can afford to do so, and you have the space, climate control via a de-humidifier is a great way to control humidity. If you’re unsure, you can purchase a hydrometer to monitor the humidity around your record storage area. A moderate stable environment is best – usually around 35-40% relative humidity. It’s best to store records in a relatively dry environment after all, you don’t want moisture-causing mold or mildew problems on the jacket or record surface.Īll the same, if the environment is too dry, static could cause you a headache. Advertisements Control Humidityĭepending on where you live, humidity might be an issue. Sunlight will also rapidly fade the colors on your artwork we’ve all seen those second-hand records with faded spines from light exposure over the years. Aim to keep your precious records away from windows and direct sunlight, which can destroy your collection very quickly if left unchecked. This last one might sound obvious, but you should always avoid storing vinyl records near radiators, air vents, or any other variable that could pack out heat and result in warped records.Ĭlosely related to heat is light. I’d also recommend avoiding close proximity to external walls, as particularly in older houses, you can run a high risk of them picking up mold or mildew. It’s best to avoid areas of the home where temperatures can fluctuate, such as an attic, loft, basement or garage. Keep records stored indoors at around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18☌ – 21☌) if you can. But all collectors agree, extreme temperatures, and particularly high heat, should be avoided. There is some debate about the optimal temperature for storing vinyl records. We can break the topic down into three core pillars for record storage success… Get the Temperature Right This is by far the most important factor in safely storing records more important than any cabinet or accessory. The Correct Environment For Storing Vinyl Records
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |