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.
So, should you keep vinyl in a paper sleeve? The answer is yes, but it is not the best option. Paper sleeves are not very durable and can easily be torn or damaged. They also do not provide much protection against dust and scratches.
If you want to protect your vinyl records from damage, you should use outer sleeves. Outer sleeves are a relatively inexpensive way to protect your investment and keep your records in good condition for years to come.
Here are some of the reasons why you should not keep vinyl in a paper sleeve:
- Paper sleeves are not very durable and can easily be torn or damaged.
- They do not provide much protection against dust and scratches.
- They can attract static electricity, which can damage the record.
- They can yellow over time, which can make the record look unsightly.
If you are serious about collecting vinyl records, then you should definitely use outer sleeves. They are a small investment that will help to protect your records and keep them in good condition for years to come.
Here are some additional tips for storing your vinyl records:
- Store your records in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Use a record storage box to help protect your records from dust and scratches.
- Handle your records with care to avoid scratching them.
- Clean your records regularly to remove dust and dirt.