Maya Ellison
Storing vinyl records in plastic sleeves is a highly debated topic among vinyl enthusiasts. While some advocate for it, citing protection from dust, light, and wear and tear, others argue that thick plastic coverings can stick to the record and peel off its artwork. Additionally, the type of plastic used, such as PVC, may cause discolouration. So, should you keep records in plastic? Well, it depends. Plastic sleeves can be beneficial, but it's important to choose the right type of plastic sleeve, ensuring it's the appropriate size and made of a suitable material like polypropylene.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Protection | Plastic sleeves protect records from dust, light, scratches, seam-splitting, ringwear, and excessive wear and abrasion. |
| Maintenance | Plastic sleeves help keep covers in good shape for longer, making records easier to slide in and out of boxes/cases/shelves. |
| Storage | Plastic dividers can help with organisation and balance on shelves. Heavy-duty plastic boxes with handles are recommended for long-term storage and transport. |
| Disadvantages | Thick plastic coverings can stick to records, peeling off artwork. PVC sleeves can cause discolouration. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic sleeves prevent seam-splitting and ringwear
Plastic sleeves are an effective solution for preserving vinyl records. They help keep the covers in good shape for longer, serving as an additional barrier against light and dust. They also prevent seam-splitting and ringwear. Seam-splitting is when the edges of the jacket rip, and ringwear refers to the circular wear patterns that develop along the edges. Ringwear is caused by pressure, such as when records are stacked on top of each other or stored too tightly on a shelf.
To prevent ringwear, it is recommended to store records vertically on a shelf with some breathing room. Plastic outer sleeves can also help to reduce ringwear by protecting the jacket from wear and tear. They also prevent seam-splitting by keeping the cover in pristine condition.
It is important to note that thick plastic coverings can stick to the record and peel off its artwork when compressed. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase a plastic sleeve of the appropriate size for the specific type of record. For instance, a soft, snug sleeve is suitable for a single record, while a more spacious fit is needed for a double LP or box set.
Overall, plastic sleeves are a crucial part of record care, helping to keep vinyl records in mint condition and prevent excessive wear and abrasion.
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Plastic sleeves keep records dust-free
Plastic sleeves are an effective way to keep records dust-free and in good condition. They act as a barrier against light and dust, and also prevent seam-splitting and ringwear. The plastic sleeves that records come in are typically made of low-grade paper, which can be abrasive and gradually scratch the vinyl's surface. Therefore, it is recommended to replace these inner sleeves with plastic ones, which will protect the record from external elements.
However, it is important to note that thick plastic coverings can stick to the record and peel off its artwork. To avoid this, it is advised to purchase plastic sleeves of the appropriate size and material. For instance, soft, snug sleeves are suitable for single records, while a more spacious fit is needed for a double LP or box set. Polypropylene sleeves are recommended over PVC sleeves, as the latter can react chemically with the vinyl and cause discolouration.
Additionally, outer sleeves that go over the cardboard sleeve are important in shielding the record from dust entirely. These should be made of a light and smooth material, as heavy plastic sleeves can weigh down the vinyl and cause similar issues to thick plastic coverings. Sealable vinyl bags are a great option, as they keep the vinyl airtight and provide that extra 10% of protection.
Overall, plastic sleeves are a great way to keep records dust-free and in good condition, but it is important to choose the right type of plastic sleeve and to also consider using outer sleeves for maximum protection.
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Plastic outer sleeves are necessary for protection
Plastic outer sleeves are essential for protecting vinyl records. They help keep the covers in good shape and prevent seam-splitting and ringwear. They also act as a barrier against light, dust, dirt, and moisture, ensuring the records remain in pristine condition. Additionally, plastic outer sleeves reduce friction when pulling the record out of the sleeve.
While some people prefer the look of records without the plastic covering, it is important to prioritise protection to maintain the value and functionality of the record. Plastic sleeves are particularly useful for resale value, as they keep the covers looking new.
It is worth noting that not all plastic sleeves are created equal. Thick plastic coverings can stick to the record and peel off its artwork over time. Therefore, it is recommended to use a light and smooth material for the outer sleeve, ensuring it is the appropriate size for the specific type of record. Soft, snug sleeves are ideal for single records, while a more spacious fit is better for double LPs or box sets.
When storing vinyl records, it is also recommended to use a sturdy box made of heavy-duty plastic. Cardboard boxes are not strong enough and can compromise the safety of the records during lifting and transport. Plastic boxes with good handle grips, sturdy patterns on the lid for stacking, and sealable folds at the top for airtight protection are ideal for preserving and organising your vinyl collection.
Overall, plastic outer sleeves and storage solutions are necessary for protecting vinyl records from various types of wear and tear, ensuring they remain in mint condition for years to come.
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Heavy plastic sleeves can damage artwork
Plastic sleeves are commonly used to protect vinyl records and artwork from damage. They can help to keep covers in good shape and prevent seam-splitting and ringwear. However, thick plastic coverings can stick to the record and peel off its artwork when compressed. This is why it is important to purchase a plastic sleeve of the appropriate size for the specific type of record being stored. For instance, a single record should be stored in a soft, snug sleeve, while a double LP or box set should have a more spacious fit.
When it comes to artwork, rigid, archival-quality protectors are recommended for safe storage. These protectors are made from archival polypropylene, which is durable and seals out dust and moisture. Self-sealing polypropylene bags are also an economical option for archival storage, as they protect photos and artwork from fingerprints and dust.
While plastic sleeves can be beneficial for preserving vinyl records and artwork, it is crucial to select the appropriate type and size of sleeve to avoid potential damage. Heavy plastic sleeves, if not properly sized, can cause more harm than good.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some sources suggest that low-grade paper sleeves that come with vinyl records can be abrasive and gradually scratch the surface of the vinyl. This is why it is recommended to replace the original inner sleeves with thin yet protective sleeves to avoid snagging and external damage.
In summary, heavy plastic sleeves can damage artwork if they are not properly sized and if they are compressed. It is important to select the appropriate storage materials and methods to ensure the preservation of vinyl records and artwork.
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Plastic storage boxes are ideal for long-term storage
When it comes to storing records for the long term, plastic storage boxes are indeed ideal for several reasons. Firstly, they offer durability and strength that other materials like cardboard cannot match. Cardboard boxes may not be sturdy enough to support the weight of records and can be prone to tearing or collapsing, especially when stacked or transported. Heavy-duty plastic boxes, on the other hand, provide a robust solution that can withstand the weight of multiple records and the rigours of stacking, mobility, and long-term storage.
Plastic storage boxes are also advantageous for preserving the condition of records. They act as a protective barrier against external elements such as dust, light, and moisture, which can damage records over time. Plastic sleeves, in particular, help prevent seam-splitting and ringwear, keeping the covers in pristine condition. Additionally, plastic storage boxes can protect records from the detrimental effects of heat. Vinyl records are susceptible to warping at temperatures above 50°C (120°F), so storing them in plastic boxes can mitigate this risk by providing insulation and ventilation.
Another benefit of plastic storage boxes is their versatility and ease of use. They often feature sturdy handles, allowing for safe and convenient transport of records. Plastic boxes designed for record storage, such as the Citronic CVA50 or the Really Useful Box range, typically have patterns on the lids that facilitate stable stacking, enabling efficient utilisation of storage space. Additionally, plastic record dividers can be used within the boxes for improved organisation and cataloguing of the collection.
While plastic storage boxes offer numerous advantages, it is worth noting that the type of plastic and its quality are important considerations. Some plastics, like PVC, can react chemically with vinyl and cause discolouration. Therefore, it is recommended to use polypropylene sleeves to mitigate this issue. Additionally, thick plastic coverings can stick to the record and peel off its artwork, so choosing plastic sleeves of appropriate thickness and size is crucial. Soft, snug sleeves are ideal for single records, while a more spacious fit is suitable for double LPs or box sets.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, plastic sleeves help keep the covers in good shape for longer and also serve as an additional barrier against light and dust.
Plastic sleeves can keep your records in mint condition and prevent excessive wear and abrasion. They also reduce friction when pulling the record out of the sleeve.
Avoid thick plastic coverings as they can stick to the record and peel off its artwork. Choose a sleeve of the appropriate size for the specific type of record you are storing. For instance, use a soft, snug sleeve for a single record and a more spacious fit for a double LP or box set.
Yes, you can use inner sleeves made of delicate plastic liners within paper inners or round-bottomed plastic-only variants.
Store your records vertically instead of horizontally to prevent them from becoming misshapen. Use a strong plastic box with a good handle grip for storage and transport.
