Last Updated on 27 January 2026 by Massimo M.

As you have probably personally experienced our vinyl records inevitably deteriorate reeds simply by handling them and therefore you need to understand how to protect the vinyl collection.

To properly protect the disks, it is sufficient to take a few simple precautions.

1 – Use the inner envelope –

It may seem trivial but the first trick to limit the damage from “handling” is precisely to store the disc inside the appropriate paper bag. There are various weights and qualities but, in general, it is advisable to use an envelope with antistatic lining. Particular attention should be paid to the original paper bags that over time deteriorate and leave residues of various kinds on the surface of the disc. They must be replaced promptly.

2 – Do not directly touch the surface of the disc

Avoid touching the surface of the discs with your hands. The best thing is to handle them by taking them by the edges in order to avoid leaving on the microgrooves the classic fingers that are really difficult to remove.

3 – Do not throw the disc inside the cover

This may also seem a trivial suggestion but I happened to see the disc put back making it “fall” down inside the cover. This behavior is to be avoided because it inevitably leads to scratches and breakages.

4 – Do not stack discs

When stored horizontally the weight of the disc stack inevitably causes the deformation of the vinyl and the deterioration of the cover. So for proper storage it is necessary to store vinyls in an upright position, as is done with books, protected from direct sunlight. The ideal temperature should not exceed 20 degrees, and the humidity, very dangerous for our collection, should not exceed 30%.

5 – Use the turntable well

To maintain the quality of the grooves over time, it is necessary to periodically check the state of the pin which, it must be known, is subject to wear. The pins have different physical characteristics and have a variable duration linked to different factors. In any case, an average pin can be used for 150/200 hours as long as you do not mistreat it. In this regard, and in any case as general rules, it is always advisable to lower the head using the appropriate lever, not placing it “by hand”, so as not to slide the latter on the surface, clean the surface of the vinyl using the appropriate brushes or an antistatic cloth, remove and put on the plate the disc when it is stationary, periodically clean the pin itself using the appropriate brushes.

6 – Use your brain !

Do not place the opening of the inner envelope in the same direction as the cover opening. This seemingly trivial operation will save the disc ruinous falls and you the unpleasant feeling of having thrown your money out the window.

These simple tips will help you keep your collection in top condition. If you are starting now to create your vinyl collection or if you are simply looking for some suggestions I suggest you also read Useful tips to create a vinyl record collection and How to properly store your vinyl record collection.

How to protect the vinyl collection