Vinyl records have become a popular collector’s item, and they can be worth quite a bit of money. For example, the original copy of “That’ll Be The Day” by The Quarrymen fetches upwards of $150,000. So what do you do if you live in a tiny NYC apartment and you have a valuable record collection that takes up space you need? Consider storing your record collection in a storage unit. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Store Them Clean. Dust and oils can get in the grooves and ruin playback. Before and after every use, and before storage, clean each side of your record. Carbon fiber brushes or distilled water with a soft lint-free cloth are often recommended. If you’re willing and able to spend the money, consider an ultra-sonic cleaning machine.
• Vertical Rules. Stack your vinyl records upright (as in PERFECTLY upright) — not horizontally. Storing them flat can cause them to warp. Also, avoid storing different sized records together.
• Strong Shelving. Vinyl records are heavy, and it’s amazing how quickly that weight adds up when you’re storing a big collection. Make sure you store your records on strong shelving.
• Temperature is Important. Find climate-controlled storage for your vinyl records. They should be stored at room temperature or below (but not freezing temperatures) or they can warp. And they should be stored in a dry environment. Many people are tempted to store their vinyl collections in attics, basements, garages, or even sheds. These are pretty much the worst environments to store vinyl records because they get extremely hot and cold. If you’re tempted to store your collection in any of these places, then consider selling it now, before it gets ruined.
• High-Density Polyethylene. Say What? You have to worry about chemical reactions over time with vinyl records. High-density polyethylene sleeves protect your vinyl, so take them out of the paper sleeve and store them using these, if you want to preserve your collection. Also, never store your records in their original unopened shrink wrap.
• Storage Boxes. You can actually find storage boxes made specifically for vinyl records storage. Avoid boxes that can hold static, so go for wood and not metal. And don’t cram them all in; use spacers every few inches.

Are you wondering where you can storage your vinyl collection? Citiwide Self Storage in New York City offers convenient climate-controlled self storage units for your temperature-sensitive items, including your vinyl record collection.