Think of vinyl like a piece of jewelry: valuable and fragile, it requires specific care and knowledge to maintain. There are techniques and tools that can help you maintain it, but there are also some essential basics to ensure your records last. These are simple dos and don'ts, some dos and don'ts. And since here at NOIZE, we're always thinking about the experience our subscribers will have with our releases, we decided to talk a little about these basic precautions.

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Today, we'll cover what you should never, ever, under any circumstances do to your LPs. Follow the advice below, and your collection can last a lifetime playing perfectly.



1. Never store your records lying down. LPs should always be stored upright.

Your collection should be stored like books in a library. Always store vinyl records standing upright next to each other, never one on top of the other. If you stack records, the ones on top will weigh down the ones below, causing them to warp and leave their covers marked. Don't do this. Store your LPs in a row, and the more vertical they are, the better.

2. Do not leave the biscuit exposed to the sun.

Yes, we know the sun is good for our health. But it's terrible for records. Exposed to direct sunlight, LPs lose their quality. Ideally, keep your collection in a place protected from the sun's rays to avoid warping, fading of the covers, and damage to the grooves. This damage can be irreversible.

3. When removing dust, alcohol and chemicals are a bad idea.

It's inevitable that some dirt or other will find its way onto your records. It's always a good idea to give your records a quick clean before putting the needle to work. The best way to do this is with a lint-free flannel cloth or a record-cleaning brush (some are available on the market). In both cases, wipe gently and gently, following the vinyl's circumference and grooves. If the dirt is heavier, there are other options, such as these .

4. Your vinyl is not a good place for greasy fingers.

The tip: always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your records. If you're eating or doing anything that gets your paws dirty, stay away from your collection. And even with clean hands, the correct way to hold a vinyl record is always by the edges, without running your fingers over the surface.

5. Garages, attics, basements: the worst places to store your collection.

Your records need to be kept away from moisture, so locations like the ones mentioned above aren't a good option. Keep your records in places with good air circulation, and you'll be fine. Damp places can cause mold to grow on your LPs, causing permanent damage.

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These are some basics for those just entering the world of vinyl and starting their collection. There are certainly other important points (in fact, vinyl knowledge has been accumulating for a long time), but if you follow the tips above, you'll definitely be ensuring several years of life for your records. Take good care of them—they deserve it!