A vinyl record collection can be passed on from generation to generation and will most likely increase its sentimental and financial value in time. However, you should know that improper storage conditions can damage your prized possessions, by making them become unplayable or making it harder for you to find the right buyer for your most sought-after pieces. The good news is that you can avoid any form of deterioration associated with different threats, including mold, mildew, impacts or extreme temperatures, by packing and depositing your vinyl records with care inside a Baltimore self storage unit. Here are three key guidelines that you should follow to prevent incidents and keep your records looking like new for years in a row while in storage. Stack Your Records Vertically. Stack your records upright. Use special containers to deposit these goods to prevent warping. Whatever you do, don’t place one record on top of another, especially if these pieces come in different formats. Opt for Durable, Highly Resistant Shelving. Collapsed shelving can wipe your vinyl record collection off the face of the earth in a split second; this is why you should install sturdy shelves inside your unit and test their resistance before using them as a storage solution for your valuable collectibles. All the records that you place on the shelf should be accompanied by immovable, solid dividers placed every 5 or 6 inches. Organize and store vinyl records based on their size. Keep in mind that you should always separate 45s from 78s and LPs. Maintain an Ideal Temperature/Humidity Level inside Your Unit. Most importantly, you have to control the humidity and temperature level inside your unit to avoid damages caused by temperature and humidity variations. Generally speaking, a dry room with up to 40% humidity works best for your collection. Also, remember that you should store your records at room temperature and keep them far away from sources of heat and intense light. Ideally, you should rent a climate-controlled Baltimore self storage unit to recreate the perfect conditions for your personal effects. US Storage Centers offers the very best options in terms of self storage in Baltimore. Find and compare units today and reserve your favorite one over the Internet, the easy and convenient way. US Storage Centers 5117 Belair Road Baltimore, MD 21206 (410) 929-2939