Vinyl records are a physical medium that can be easily damaged. The record itself is made of a thin piece of vinyl that is coated with a layer of lacquer. The lacquer is what gives the record its shiny surface and allows it to hold the music.
The record is housed in a paper sleeve that protects it from dust and scratches. However, the paper sleeve is not enough to protect the record from all damage. This is where outer sleeves come in.
Outer sleeves are made of a thicker material, such as polythene or polypropylene. They provide a layer of protection between the record and the paper sleeve. This helps to prevent the record from being scratched or damaged.
If you do not want to use outer sleeves, there are a few things you can do to protect your records:
- Store your records in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and humidity can cause the record to warp and the lacquer to deteriorate.
- Use a record storage box. A record storage box will help to protect your records from dust and scratches.
- Handle your records with care. When handling your records, be careful not to scratch them.
- Clean your records regularly. Dust and dirt can damage the record and make it sound worse.
Here are some additional tips for storing your vinyl records without outer sleeves:
- Use a clean, soft cloth to wipe down the record before storing it.
- Stack the records with the labels facing up.
- Do not stack too many records on top of each other.
- Store the records in a place where they will not be exposed to excessive heat or humidity.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your vinyl records in good condition for years to come.
However, it is important to note that storing records outside of sleeves is not ideal. Outer sleeves provide the best protection for your records, and they are a relatively inexpensive way to do so. If you are serious about collecting vinyl records, then I recommend using outer sleeves.
