I Collect Vinyl Records and Here Are My Favorite Ways to Store Them

Concord Audio Rack

Another midcentury modern-inspired piece we couldn’t leave off the list? This audio rack that’s balanced atop hairpin legs. If you need a styling tip, allow us to help: Place the turntable on the top, the speaker on the open shelf, and your record collection on the bottom shelf, which is designed specifically for LPs. It comes in two finishes, so grab the one that pairs best with your pre-existing furniture and decor. Personally, we love the walnut finish, which feels a bit more 1960s than the oak.

What to Look for When Considering a Vinyl Record Storage?

Record collections, even new releases, are more fragile than they may seem. Vintage records, in particular, are so old that they need to be stored carefully to prevent damage. So, when you’re choosing your vinyl record storage, consider a few things.

Size: The number of records will be a determining factor in your choice of storage piece. Some are designed to house only a few, and others can fit hundreds. So before you add your favorite one to your cart, consider the number of records you have and use regularly. You’ll also want to ensure the dimensions of your chosen storage will fit your records and your turntable and speakers (if you want to keep them all in the same place). As a rule of thumb, records tend to be packaged in 12″ by 12″ sleeves, so make sure your shelves, cabinet, or crate can safely contain those dimensions.

Material: Opt for a material that’s easy to clean, like wood, acrylic, or metal, because unless you use your records every day, they will begin to collect dust. Don’t worry; that happens, but if you store them in a container that’s difficult to clean, the dust may damage the LPs.

Style: The aesthetic counts! If your home is modern and minimalist, don’t opt for a rustic wooden crate. On the other hand, if your apartment is dark and moody, a glamorous metallic rolling cart won’t work. Luckily, there are many options on our list, and at least one is bound to work with your space.

What Is the Best Way to Store Records?

The best way to store records is vertically and in a temperature-controlled space. In other words, don’t stack them atop each other like you would a collection of books or leave them in the sun, which can cause them to melt. Remember, they’re not called vinyl for nothing! Records are made of, well, vinyl, or polyvinyl chloride if you want to be fancy. Because of how they’re made, they are prone to warping and bending if left in temperatures warmer than 200 degrees Fahrenheit (vinyl’s melting point). The ideal temperature to store vinyl—especially vintage ones—is between 40°F and 50°F.

Why Trust House Beautiful?

The House Beautiful shopping editors are storage experts. We have a thing for keeping collections organized, from decluttering closets to hiding errant pairs of shoes. We love talking to professional organizers and getting advice on making our homes as efficient and cohesive as possible. So, we were more than up to the task when it came to finding vinyl record storage solutions. Associate Shopping Editors Jessica Cherner and Janae McKenzie spent 10+ hours researching vinyl record storage solutions, picking only the products from brands we know and trust. Plus, McKenzie has also been collecting vinyls for six years, so she’s passionate about finding ways to keep her favorite records safe and dust-free.

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