The No-Brainer Vinyl Record Storage Solution With A Hidden Risk

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If you're a vinyl lover, you may already know some of the most common display tricks. Some people have firm opinions around whether you should alphabetize your records, some love the classic look of a crate sitting next to the record player, and others push a pin right through the middle to showcase their records on the wall. The latter is a cheap and fast option and kind of reminiscent of hanging posters in high school. The problem is, this "simple" hack isn't as harmless to your beloved vinyl as it might look.

Records can actually lose their shape over time, and if that one pin bears all the weight, then over just a few months or years, the disc may develop a subtle warp that you won't notice until you try to play it. Collectors warn about this, and online forums are full of regret from people who ended up with skipped grooves and uneven wear after displaying their records with unsupported methods like this. And then there's the matter of scratches. Pins can easily rub against the record. If you add in the exposure to sunlight and dust, that glossy black surface could quickly turn dull or warped. Storage guides always recommend keeping your vinyl upright, cool, and clean for a reason.

There are far safer ways to get the same visual eye-catching drama without accidentally damaging your beloved record collection. In fact, there are frames designed specifically for vinyl sleeves, such as Fxojyvo Vinyl Record Frames, which are a smart pick if the goal is displaying on a wall — this way the cover art can shine without the risk of a support pin causing damage. And if you want to listen to them, simply take down the frame and pull out the record. After all, using vinyl albums as art is a great idea, but so is keeping them playable for years to come.

Some people also use slim rails, low-profile shelves or clips that cradle the record's edge instead of piercing it through the middle, while some wall holders add UV-resistant glass to guard against sunlight. These systems give you the best of both worlds: a showpiece on the wall and a disc that's ready to spin at any time. It's decor with a side of practicality as opposed to function fully sacrificed for the sake of looks.

If you prefer the casual, music-loving feel of records displayed out in the open, you can compromise by pinning up some thrift store finds or old discs you wouldn't mind losing. You could then use more protective frames to display your prized albums. If that doesn't suit you, there are tons of fun ways to display and organize your vinyl collection, so find the one that best suits your setup and personal tastes.