How to remove plastic from vinyl record

Vinyl records have experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity, captivating music enthusiasts with their warm analog sound and tangible appeal. However, many vinyl records come wrapped in plastic, which can be both protective and frustrating for collectors. While the plastic serves as a safeguard during shipping and storage, it’s often viewed as an obstruction when you’re ready to enjoy your music. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various methods and best practices for safely removing plastic from vinyl records without causing any damage.

Why Remove the Plastic?

Before we dive into the removal process, it’s essential to understand why you might want to remove the plastic from your vinyl records:

1. Accessibility: Plastic shrink wrap can make it challenging to access your vinyl records quickly, particularly if you have a large collection. Removing the plastic allows for easier access to your music.
2. Aesthetic Considerations: Collectors often appreciate the tactile experience of handling their vinyl records without the interference of plastic. Removing it can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your collection.
3. Environmental Concerns: The plastic wrap, if not properly disposed of, can contribute to environmental issues. Many collectors choose to remove and recycle the plastic to reduce waste.

Now, let’s explore how to safely remove plastic from vinyl records without compromising their condition.

Materials You’ll Need:

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

1. Vinyl Record(s): Ensure the records are clean and free of any debris.
2. Clean Workspace: Choose a clean, clutter-free area to work.
3. Utility Knife or Scissors: These will be used to carefully cut the plastic away.
4. Anti-Static Brush: This helps remove any static electricity and dust.
5. Cotton Gloves: Wearing gloves minimizes the risk of fingerprints and smudges on the record.
6. Microfiber Cloth: For wiping the record clean after plastic removal.
7. Optional: Outer Sleeves: If you’d like to protect your records after removing the plastic, consider using outer sleeves.

Method 1: The Slit-and-Peel Technique

This method is the most straightforward way to remove plastic from vinyl records without using any special tools. Follow these steps:

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure your workspace is clean, and you’re wearing cotton gloves to avoid smudging the record.
2. Lay the Record Flat: Place the vinyl record on a flat surface.
3. Identify the Seams: Examine the plastic wrap and locate the seams where it has been sealed. This is usually along the edges of the record jacket.
4. Make a Small Cut: Using a utility knife or scissors, make a small, careful cut along one of the seams. Be extremely cautious not to touch the record with the blade.
5. Peel Back the Plastic: Gently peel back the plastic wrap from the record jacket, using your fingers or a plastic opener tool if necessary. Take your time to ensure you don’t accidentally touch the vinyl surface.
6. Continue Peeling: Continue peeling the plastic away from the record until it’s completely removed.
7. Clean the Record: Use an anti-static brush to remove any remaining dust or debris from the record’s surface. Wipe it down with a microfiber cloth if necessary.
8. Store or Play: Once the plastic is removed and the record is clean, you can either play it or store it in an outer sleeve for added protection.

Method 2: The Plastic Opener Tool Technique

For those who prefer a tool designed specifically for vinyl record plastic removal, the plastic opener tool is an excellent choice. Here’s how to use it:

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure your workspace is clean and wear cotton gloves.
2. Lay the Record Flat: Place the vinyl record on a flat surface.
3. Insert the Tool: Take the plastic opener tool and gently insert it between the plastic wrap and the record jacket, starting at one of the seams.
4. Slide Along the Seam: Carefully slide the tool along the seam, separating the plastic from the record jacket as you go. Be cautious not to touch the vinyl with the tool.
5. Continue Around the Edges: Continue using the tool to loosen the plastic wrap from the entire perimeter of the record jacket.
6. Peel Back the Plastic: Once you’ve loosened the plastic, gently peel it back from the record jacket, using your fingers or the tool as needed.
7. Clean the Record: Use an anti-static brush to remove any dust or debris from the record’s surface. Wipe it down with a microfiber cloth if necessary.
8. Store or Play: With the plastic removed and the record clean, you can either play it or store it in an outer sleeve for added protection.

Method 3: The Steam Method (Advanced)

The steam method is for collectors who want to remove the plastic wrap while minimizing any potential damage. However, this method requires extra caution and should only be attempted by experienced individuals:

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure your workspace is clean and wear cotton gloves.
2. Boil Water: Boil a pot of water and let it cool slightly until it’s producing steam.
3. Lay the Record Flat: Place the vinyl record on a flat surface.
4. Hold the Record Jacket: Hold the record jacket above the rising steam, allowing the steam to gently heat the plastic wrap.
5. Peel Back the Plastic: After a minute or two of exposure to steam, carefully peel back the plastic wrap from the record jacket, using your fingers or a plastic opener tool if necessary.
6. Clean the Record: Use an anti-static brush to remove any remaining dust or debris from the record’s surface. Wipe it down with a microfiber cloth if necessary.
7. Store or Play: Once the plastic is removed and the record is clean, you can either play it or store it in an outer sleeve for added protection.

Conclusion: Preserving Your Vinyl Records

Removing the plastic from vinyl records can be a satisfying step in preserving and enjoying your collection. Whether you choose the slit-and-peel technique, the plastic opener tool method, or the more advanced steam method, always prioritize the careful handling of your records to prevent any damage during the process. With the plastic removed and your vinyl records cleaned and protected, you can fully immerse yourself in the world of analog music, appreciating both the sound and the tactile beauty of vinyl.