Types of Vinyl Record Storage – Best Ideas for Record Storage & Display

Crammed closets and disorganized piles of records stashed under beds or stacked near stereos plague vinyl enthusiasts. As collections grow, lovers of classic physical media struggle to properly store their cherished LPs to prevent damage, preserve quality, and retain ready access for spur-of-the-moment playback.

Fortunately, ingenious types of vinyl record storage solutions abound for showcasing wax within reach while keeping treasured tunes safe from warping, dust, or everyday accidents. From specialized shelving to custom carrying cases, this guide explores creative approaches for organizing vinyl gems no matter your space, budget or aesthetic.

Record Storage Crates

Record storage crates allow vinyl enthusiasts to conveniently organize and protect their precious record collections. Available in materials like durable wood, lightweight plastic, and sturdy metal, quality crates safely store stacks of records while keeping them easily accessible for playback.

Wooden Crates

Wooden crates bring a retro aesthetic to record storage with their classic slatted or paneled designs. Typically constructed from solid pine, cedar, or oak, wooden crates allow proper airflow around records to prevent moisture damage and warp. These stylish boxes neatly stack to optimize space and can be customized with handy dividers, shelves, and drawers for sorting by genre, artist or label. Leading manufacturers like Crosley and Way Basics craft wooden record crates in a variety of wood types, stains, dimensions and storage options to integrate seamlessly into any space.

The advantages of wooden record storage crates include:

• Visually appealing vintage styling
• Durable all-wood construction
• Customizable storage solutions
• Breathable material protects vinyl

However, wood crates should receive occasional cleaning and treatment to prevent cracking, insect damage or finish clouding over years of use.

Plastic Crates

For vinyl enthusiasts on a budget, plastic record crates offer adequate protection and portability at a fraction of the cost of wood units. These lightweight injection-molded containers feature handy carrying handles and transparent windows for quick record browsing. The durable plastic construction resists moisture, dirt, and typical wear-and-tear from frequent transport and handling. While plastic cannot match the handsome warmth or environmental sustainability of natural wood grains, the affordability and resilience of plastic record crates make them a practical starting point for new collectors with limited funds.

Metal Crates

Constructed from powder-coated steel or aluminum, metal record crates provide a secure, weather-resistant storage solution. Sturdy metal construction foils damages from moisture, dust and potential accidents. However, cheaper thin-gauge metal leaves vinyl vulnerable to denting, rust development or chemical transfer over time. Investing a few extra dollars upfront on thick, coated steel crates from trusted manufacturers helps ensure enduring performance.

With sensible precautions against scratches or crushing impacts, metal record crates offer reliable functionality until one can upgrade to more aesthetic wood or plastic storage. Their durability against outdoor elements also makes metal crates a smart pick for basement, garage or covered patio storage with adequate airflow.

Shelving Units

Dedicated shelving offers vinyl collectors an attractive way to prominently display their record collections while keeping them organized and protected. Purpose-built record shelves provide customizable storage solutions to fit any space and budget.

Freestanding Shelves

Freestanding record shelves range from basic budget units to high-end premium designs. Entry-level sheet metal shelving from companies like Atlantic fit neatly into corners to serve small collections. They typically offer 3-5 fixed shelves strong enough to hold ~50-150 records. For larger storage needs, sturdier wood or steel media shelves from Pottery Barn or Wayfair supply thicker, adjustable shelves capable of handling 200-500+ LPs. These roomy units showcase records and album art while maximizing ceiling height storage.

Consider key factors when selecting freestanding record shelves:

• Shelf material and thickness rating
• Adjustable or fixed shelf positions
• Unit dimensions and weight capacity
• Style to complement room decor

Record Dividers

Tabbed dividers help keep organized record collections neatly categorized by genre, artist, or custom groupings. Available materials range from basic cardboard to engraved acrylic tabs for personalized luxury. Hanging divider options slot in front of freestanding shelf segments without needing permanent installation.

Consider key aspects of record dividers like visibility, label space, and material durability. Custom graphic software enables DIY enthusiasts to design their own divider themes to showcase niche interests or humor beyond basic categorization. With tailored tabs hand labeling each distinct vinyl category, finding hidden gems within expansive libraries becomes truly effortless.

Wall-Mounted Shelves

Maximize limited floor space by mounting record shelves directly onto walls. Budget-friendly floating ledges neatly display a few dozen titles, while slotted utility shelves effectively utilize wall cavities and corners. For expansive storage, anchor heavy-duty bracket shelving rated for 700+ vinyl. This architectural approach magnifies visual impact in a slim footprint.

When installing wall-mounted record storage, mind:

• Wall mounting guidelines and weight limits
• Shelf and bracket strength ratings
• Proper anchoring into structural framing

Dimensional Considerations

Optimal record shelf dimensions account for album jackets, inner sleeves, and media thickness. Average specifications should provide:

• Shelf Height: 18-20″
• Shelf Depth: 16-18″
• Shelf between: 10-14”

Accommodating these vinyl record proportions allows records to stand upright without cramming while enabling easy fingertip browsing.

Record Carrying Cases

Record carrying cases allow safe transport of treasured vinyl collections wherever musical scavenger hunts may lead. Constructed from protective materials, these sturdy carrying cases are built to safeguard vulnerable vinyl.

Hard Shelled Cases

Indestructible hard record cases deliver uncompromising safety for LPs on the move. Constructed from polymers like ABS plastic or polycarbonate, airtight waterproof seals and dense foam padded interiors protect against blunt forces and nature’s fury.

Wood Record Cases

Handcrafted wood carrying cases combine vintage style with extreme padding to coddle records on the road. Exterior wood choices range from budget plywood to premium solid walnut or hand-oiled bamboo depending on investment priorities.

Flight Cases

Heavy-duty flight cases are the standard for professional mobile DJs and touring performers requiring nightly venue changes across states and countries. Rugged external shells of polyethylene polymer or welded aluminum surround military-grade foam padding buffers for extreme impact/weather resistance. Some options even feature integrated wheels, pull handles, stacking capability and airline approval.

Capacity Considerations

Personal carrying cases typically hold 25-50 LPs for weekend enthusiasts. Professional DJ models house 100-200+ records in foam-lined slots or tied down with retention straps, keeping large libraries orderly in transit.

Modular and interlocking flight case designs allow scalable capacity customization over time as collections grow, while stackable models conserve storage space when not on the road.

Record Bags

Specialized record bags allow safe transport of treasured vinyl collections to listening parties, record store digs or DJ gigs. Thoughtfully designed carrying cases feature protective qualities and storage considerations tailored specifically for the vulnerability of LPs.

Backpack Bags

When traveling across town by bike or public transit, durable backpack bags provide hands-free vinyl transportation convenience. Padded shoulder straps minimize strain while thick nylon exterior shells resist abrasions, even when accidentally bumped or dropped. Storage capacities typically allow reliable mobility for around 50 records.

Key features for quality backpack record bags:

• Balanced weight distribution from shoulder straps
• Durable abrasion-resistant outer shell
• Interior padding around storage compartments

Shoulder Record Bags

For lighter loads below 25 albums, convenient shoulder record bags offer versatile transportation in a baggy messenger style. Cotton canvas constructions look fashionably discreet with multiple interior or exterior pockets for storing accessories. An adjustable stabilizing strap across the chest prevents the bag from excessive motion during transport.

When evaluating shoulder record bags, consider:

• Breathable canvas or nylon shells
• Stabilizing and shoulder strap comfort
• Interior liner durability

Carry Handle Bags

For short excursions across the room or venue, handy carry handle record bags provide grab n’ go portability for small stacks of precious vinyl. These compact bags carry 5-10 albums in a lightweight duffel or box-shaped case. Telescoping handles or padded grip areas enable comfortable short distance carrying.

Assess key aspects of carry handle record bags like:

• Grip and handle ergonomics
• Compact storage capacity
• Lightweight design

With choices ranging from expansive backpack carriers to diminutive hand-held boxes, record bags grant safe passage however vinyl may roam. Just remember, any port in a storm should shield contents from extreme weather exposure.

Filing Cabinets

Filing cabinets offer vinyl collectors an out-of-sight storage solution to neatly categorize record collections by genre, artist or label. These utilitarian storage units tuck away LPs behind closed drawers for dust-free protection.

Office Filing Cabinets

The most affordable filing option repurposes standard vertical office cabinets for vinyl storage. Deep legal- and letter-size drawers accommodate records stacked vertically in cardboard boxes or plastic crate inserts. However, shallow drawer height requires records to lay horizontally, limiting capacity. Most office cabinets support 20-30 LPs per drawer.

Consider key factors when selecting office filing cabinets:

• Drawer dimensions – height/depth
• Weight rating per drawer
• Available width for storage footprint
• Locking drawers for security

Lateral Filing Cabinets

For more robust vinyl storage, lateral filing cabinets offer wider, stronger drawers to handle heavier media weight. Spacious cabinet width allows records to stand vertically for easy browsing rather than stacking flat. With extended depths reaching 26-28 inches, larger lateral drawers can store approximately 75-100 LPs.

The benefits of lateral vinyl filing include:

• Increased drawer depth
• Superior weight capacity
• Flip-up record dividers
• Factory installed locks

However, significantly higher costs make lateral files less attainable for smaller collections.

For enthusiasts with expansive libraries, filing cabinets enable categorized storage by genre, artist or year away from light, dust and curious hands. Just be sure the selected cabinet construction can support substantial stacked media weight over time.

Record Storage Furniture

Purpose-built record storage furniture allows vinyl collections to seamlessly blend into living spaces with style. These multifunctional pieces infuse everyday shelving, cabinets and tables with high-capacity vinyl storage hidden in plain sight.

Storage Ottomans

Vinyl ottomans conceal hundreds of records behind their tufted leatherette lids – perfect for anchoring cozy seating spaces. Ornate options like Christopher Knight’s faux leather Montenegro ottoman complement traditional decor with Baroque-inspired turned wood legs. For more modern aesthetics, Prepac’s sleek-lined vinyl storage cubes integrate cleanly into contemporary loft spaces with a subdued gray fabric finish.

Key design factors for storage ottomans:

• Material/finish durability
• Inner storage capacity
• Overall dimensions

However furniture weight should be assessed for ease of movement before loading hundreds of heavy records.

Console Cabinets

Console cabinets position media storage discretely behind cabinet doors along entertainment spaces. Many console designs incorporate built-in shelving with adjustable media slots conveniently sized for LPs behind their lower cabinet facades. West Elm’s Mid-Century Media Console balances a slim, low-profile frame with expansive interior organizational solutions to satisfy extensive record libraries.

Consider console cabinet capacities for vinyl in terms of:

• Shelf width/LP slot dimensions
• Integrated media storage
• Available wood finishes

Bookcase/Entertainment Combos

For a flexible two-in-one solution, hybrid bookcase/entertainment centers allow substantial visible shelf space for album displays integrated with concealed media storage. Stalwart’s 76-inch Electric Fireplace Media Console Bookcase provides five open bookcase shelves over dual cabinet doors housing internal adjustable shelving sufficient for over 250 records.

The benefits of combo storage furniture include:

• Combined media/display storage
• Flexible layout configurations
• Integrated technology features like electric fireplaces

With adaptable form factors suited to available space, multi-use storage furniture enables seamless record collection integration subtly blended into living areas, keeping the vinyl passion flowing under the radar.

Record Shelves

Showcasing albums alongside the turntable provides enthusiasts daily vinyl interaction beyond playing records. Display-worthy record shelves specially designed for LPs keep collections orderly and easily accessible.

Material Considerations

Record shelves utilize a variety of supportive materials from powder-coated metal to finished woods. Metal wire shelving withstands heavy media weight at lower price points, while solid pine or oak options provide handsome cabinetry warmth that elevates decor. Premium brands like String offer steel-framed beetle-kill pine shelves sustainably sourced from Colorado forests.

Factors for record shelf materials:

• Strength and durability
• Visual aesthetic quality
• Price tier preferences

Sized for Vinyl

Optimized dimensions cater to LP jacket measurements with adjusted depths and heights. Vertical shelf partitions have widened spacing to prevent warps, while retaining enough coverage to inhibit dust. Standard specs accommodate:

• Shelf height: 18-20 inches
• Shelf depth: 16-18 inches
• Shelf between: 10-14 inches

This allows records to stand freely without tight squeezes impairing protective inner sleeves or compelling difficult extraction.

Specialized Design Elements

Purposeful designs incorporate elements that simplify record use beyond basic displays. Hanging LP dividers, pull-out drawers and front-facing labels provide handy access without removing albums. Some niche market brands offer modular racks for headphone storage or component integration with amps or turntables for all-in-one vinyl solutions.

With robust construction designed specifically for vulnerable vinyl, specialized record shelves keep collections orderly and damage-free while creating an artistic focal point of music appreciation.

Record Boxes and Bins

Portable boxes and bins allow cost-effective storage for sorting vinyl collections by genre, artist or year. These rectangular containers stack neatly on shelves or in filing cabinets to corral large libraries.

Cardboard Boxes

Corrugated cardboard boxes offer lightweight, disposable storage for small collections or temporary protection during moves. Single-wall moving boxes provide basic functionality, while thicker archival boxes from companies like BCW block moisture, contaminants and light exposure for better preservation. However cardboard tears easily and lacks durability for long-term rugged use.

Benefits of cardboard record boxes:

• Inexpensive protection
• Custom label space
• Disposable convenience
• Recyclable earth-friendly material

Plastic Boxes

For sturdier everyday storage, clear polypropylene plastic bins withstand frequent handling without damage. Transparent walls enable quick record referencing without lid removal. Plastic edges won’t fray like cardboard and resist exterior nicks from bumps and scrapes. However plastic offers less UV light protection compared to opaque containers.

Storage Bins

Canvas handle bins combine the breathability of fabric with reinforced bin board structure. Models like Bank & Vault’s stacking record crate feature handy carrying straps for easy portability. The included full-cover lids keep contents secure in transport while an open weave canvas allows airflow. Sturdy side, base and corner boards prevent seam splits even when loaded with heavy vinyl.

Affordable record boxes and bins conveniently group albums while their stackable uniform shapes maximize shelf space. Just avoid packing them too tightly or records may warp under excess compression.

Storage Racks

Vinyl storage racks mount neatly onto walls or sit floorbound to efficiently organize record collections. Space-saving racks neatly arrange albums into rows of protective slots or cubbies, keeping favorites easily identifiable and accessible.

Wall-Mounted Racks

Wall-mounted storage racks maximize available space in tight quarters. Low profile mounts like Wave’s Magazine Rack attach directly onto drywall to suspend a row of records on display. For a more heavy duty option, floating ledges like Ravenswood’s solid pine rack securely anchor multiple shelves that can hold 50-100 albums out of the way.

Consider key factors when installing wall rack storage:

• Mounting method and weight limits
• Available wiring space for proper anchors
• Shelf material strength and durability

Free-Standing Storage Racks

Full height storage racks provide substantial floor-based solutions for large vinyl libraries without permanent installation. Powder coated metal utility racks neatly arrange LPs on tightly packed shelves and come on rolling casters for mobility. More decorative wood and metal racks like the 4-shelf LP Storage Rack from Crosley coordinate beautifully with surrounding furniture.

Benefits of free-standing racks:

• No mounting or wiring required
• Adjustable shelf positions
• Optional mobility features like wheels or casters

With many cost-effective models under $100, vinyl racks maximize storage capacity without consuming excess floorspace – anchored gracefully upon walls or stationed securely along floors.

Decorative Ideas

Beyond purely practical storage, aesthetically-minded vinyl enthusiasts can implement clever decorative elements that celebrate records as artistic focal points. Imaginative display pieces transform albums into wall art while specialty stands exhibit the glamorized ritual of record playback.

Framed Album Covers

Preserve legendary album cover artwork in the radical framing designs offered by companies like AlbumFrames.com. Blending protection with decoration, square album frames prominently exhibit jacket artwork in an ornate filigree-edged frame. For less ornamental encasements, basic clip frames work simply and affordably by securing just the album jacket behind UV-protective acrylic. Custom frame matting can include artist names or lyrics for more personalization.

Key considerations for framed album covers include:

• UV-blocking acrylic or glass
• Attractive frame style options
• Customized mat details

Now Playing Stands

Now playing stands place select album jackets on musical display atop angle-faced pedestals. While a record spins nearby, the elevated jackets serve as mini advertisements celebrating the current band on the turntable. Decorative stands like the solid mango wood “Spin” pedestal from Artifact Design Co emphasize records as prized visual spectacles – even when silent.

Assess key factors for now playing stands:

• Display orientation angle
• Base weight and stability
• Visual style

Artfully displaying records as more than just storage cargo, decorative displays infuse rich visual artistry into the vinyl listening experience.

DIY Solutions

For the hands-on vinyl enthusiast, custom DIY solutions offer infinitely creative ways to finely tune record storage around personal needs and tastes. By crafting bespoke shelving, cabinets and organizers from raw materials, enterprising builders can curate the perfect niche nooks sized for each inch of their spaces and collections.

Building Custom Crates

Woodworking hobbyists can construct durable customized crates tailored to their precise LP collection counts. Original designs allow tweaking internal dimensions to perfectly fit available storage real estate. DIYers enjoy creative freedom in wood type selections like aromatic cedar for its damage-resistant and odor-absorbing traits ideal for vinyl. Staining or burning original graphics onto solid wood slats adds further personal panache.

Custom crate construction allows:

• Precision-fit dimensions
• Material quality control
• Unique decorative touches

However, woodworking necessitates proper cutting, joining and finishing skills to yield gallery-worthy results. Novices should practice on scrap first.

Assembling Storage Shelving

Similarly, welding inclined tinkerers can piece together steel support piping to erect fully bespoke shelving down to the exact shelf height/width/spacing specs. Durable powder coating in the hue of your choice finalizes the industrial-chic aesthetic. Feel free to incorporate custom signage into the shelf surface like the titles of favorite bands or albums. With a DIY ethos and vivid imagination, vinyl storage solutions know no bounds.

The pros of building your own record shelving:

• 100% customized dimensions
• Creative design elements
• Cost savings from raw materials

With some sweat equity and basic skills, creative enthusiasts can hand-craft the ideal custom storage haven to finally accommodate each vinyl darling just right at home.

Conclusion

When it comes to storing beloved vinyl collections, enthusiasts have an array of creative options to conveniently organize, artfully display, and securely transport their records. As outlined, tailored storage solutions can be found through purchasing quality crates, shelves, cabinets, and carrying cases from reputable manufacturers. Or more hands-on music aficionados can build fully customized, bespoke storage from raw materials to indulge their DIY passions.

Whether blending collections seamlessly into living spaces, exhibiting albums as artistic installations, or safely transporting vinyl on the go, the storage ideas presented enable both protection and celebration of records as artifacts of musical passion. Beyond just stashing LPs out of sight, purposeful storage displays devotion, with solutions ranging from ornate ottomans to basic plastic bins suiting any budget. By keeping configurations scaled to the size of current collections while allowing expansion potential, savvy solutions ensure carefree vinyl enjoyment now and for future generations.

So for stalwart enthusiasts ready to unleash collections from makeshift piles into display-worthy order, leverage the storage solutions outlined here as inspiration. Curate creative habitats where vinyl can dwell safely as the pride of the music room, not hidden away like a secret shame. With more listening enjoyment as the reward, the effort invested in considered storage will spin spirited dividends for years to come.