One easy step to take is to ensure your records are kept in a suitable environment. We recommend that you do not keep your records in rooms such as cellars, attics and garages where there are temperature fluctuations. Records should be kept away from direct sunlight as UV rays may degrade the plastics.
Before storing records it is important to ensure that the records are clean, dry and free from dust and dirt. They should be stored vertically to prevent warping. Arcare Ltd supplies acid free record sleeves and envelopes for 7”, 10” and 12” records, which fit inside acid free record storage boxes.
Our sleeves feature a circular cut-out that allows the record label to be viewed. Where as our envelopes have an overlapping flap and no circular cut-out for extra protection. Arcare also offer anti-static record sleeves
(product code 967-102) to replace the existing sleeve which may be acidic, torn or worn out. The anti-static sleeve also reduces the attraction of dust.
It is important to organise your music collection when storing it, Arcare offers divider boards
(product code 780-13125) which fit into our 12” acid free phonograph storage boxes
(product code 780-13136). This will help segregate your music collection and keep your records vertical.
Care should be taken when handling your records, they should be handled by the edge and label area, not the grooved or playing surface. For additional protection white cotton gloves
(product code 837-600M) can be worn, this helps to prevent dirt or body oils coming into contact with the record.