Vinyl records are a popular format for listening to music, but they can be easily damaged. One of the most common ways that vinyl records are damaged is by being stored horizontally. When vinyl records are stored horizontally, the weight of the records can cause them to warp. This can lead to crackling, popping, and skipping sounds when the records are played.
How Does Storing Vinyls Horizontally Cause Warping?
The vinyl record is made up of a thin layer of vinyl pressed onto a heavy disc. When the record is stored horizontally, the weight of the record can cause the vinyl to bend or warp. This is because the vinyl is not as strong as the disc.
How to Store Vinyls Vertically
To prevent warping, vinyl records should be stored vertically. This will help to distribute the weight of the record evenly and prevent it from bending.
Here are some tips on how to store vinyl records vertically:
- Use a record rack or shelf that is designed to store vinyl records vertically.
- If you are not using a record rack or shelf, you can stack the records vertically on top of each other. However, be sure to place a piece of felt or other soft material between each record to prevent them from rubbing against each other.
- Do not stack the records too high. This can put pressure on the records and cause them to warp.
- Avoid storing the records in direct sunlight or near heat sources. This can cause the records to warp.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent your vinyl records from warping and enjoy them for years to come.
Here are some additional tips:
- Use anti-static sleeves. Anti-static sleeves help to prevent dust from sticking to the records and causing them to warp.
- Clean your records regularly. This will help to remove any dust or dirt that could cause the records to warp.
- Be gentle when handling your records. Avoid dropping or bending the records, as this can also cause them to warp.
