How to Store and Clean Vinyl Records

Steps for Storage

• 1

  Replace the original plastic wrap from the record with an acid-free polyethylene sleeve. Unlike the manufacturer's wrap, the polyethylene sleeves won't shrink over time. Keep the inner paper sleeve on the record to prevent scratching from the inside of the cover. If possible, purchase rice paper sleeves to replace the original paper sleeves as these are less likely to cause tiny scratches in the vinyl.

• 2

  Use shelving or boxes to store your vinyl records. All records must be stored in a vertical position; horizontal or leaning records will warp over time due to gravity.

• 3

  Place your vinyl record shelving or containers in a place with moderate humidity and temperature. The Record Collectors Guild recommends a relative humidity of 45 to 50 percent and a constant temperature of about 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Records should not be stored near cooking areas, heating sources or smoke.

Cleaning Tips

• 4

  Create a cleaning agent to wash each vinyl record before and after playing it. Use either distilled water or a solution of distilled water and 20 percent isopropyl alcohol.

• 5

  Lay the record flat on a soft cloth and use a second soft cloth dampened with the water or solution to slowly wipe the record surface in a circular motion. Repeat for the other side.

• 6

  Remove rarely played records from their sleeves every few months to allow them to air out and be cleaned.