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At Archiveboxes.com.au we believe that archive boxes deserve more thought. Boxes shouldn't crumble away in storage and so while your box is out of sight, it's on our minds. Since 1999 we've been striving to make better, stronger and safer archive boxes.
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Blog posts
6 Storage Hacks Every Vinyl Record Collector Needs (But Probably Hasn't Thought of Yet)
So, you’ve finally decided to stop pretending that your vinyl collection is “just a hobby” and admit it’s an obsession. Good. Step one is acceptance. Step two? Figuring out where to put those 200 LPs (and counting). We know your record collection is your pride and joy, but it might also be taking over your living space like some vinyl-centric monster. Here are six smart, simple, and dare I say… life-changing hacks to help you keep your collection safe, accessible, and stylishly displayed. 1. The Vertical Stack Method (aka, How High Can You Go?) Let’s get this out of the way: stacking your records horizontally is not a storage solution, it’s a cry for help. Stacking them vertically not only makes it easier to thumb through your collection but also prevents that dreaded vinyl warp (which, by the way, is a one-way ticket to Sound Quality Purgatory). Invest in vinyl storage boxes (like these ones we sell) designed for vertical storage and avoid the "Vinyl Jenga" disaster waiting to happen. Bonus: It also gives you an excuse to buy more boxes, which let’s be honest, you already want to do. 2. Dividers: For When You’ve Forgotten What You Actually Own How many copies of Dark Side of the Moon do you have? One? Two? Eleven? It’s hard to keep track when all your records are huddled together like they’re hiding from daylight. Dividers aren’t just for alphabetizing—they’re for sanity. Organize your collection by genre, artist, year, or even “mood” (because yes, “rainy day funk” is a thing). Plus, using dividers with tabs makes you look organized. Key word: look. No judgment here. Check out our ones in black and white (fancy!) 3. Storage Shelves: The IKEA KALLAX is Your New Best Friend You already know the KALLAX shelf is practically made for vinyl. But did you know it doubles as a personality test? No one can judge you for organizing your records by obscure sub-genres (hello, post-punk-funk), but they might judge if they’re still scattered across the floor. Get your records on a shelf. Not only will your collection look way cooler, but you’ll also feel like a real adult. Or at least like someone who knows the difference between “free jazz” and “fusion.” 4. Dust Sleeves: The Unsung Heroes of Vinyl Protection If your records were children, dust sleeves would be the hand sanitizer you slather all over them. A solid, snug-fitting vinyl dust sleeve keeps out grime, fingerprints, and—God forbid—mold. Think of them as tiny, fashionable raincoats for your vinyl babies. They might seem like an unnecessary accessory until the first time you see a rogue pizza crumb lurking inside a sleeve. Protect those precious grooves, and while you’re at it, grab some outer sleeves too. Double protection = double peace of mind. 5. The Secret Drawer (Because No One Needs to See Your 90s Boy Band Phase) Let’s be real—there’s always that section of your vinyl collection you don’t necessarily want front and center. Spongebob Empty Box GIFfrom Spongebob GIFs We’re talking about the guilty pleasures, the "I’ll listen to this ironically" albums, or anything by Nickelback. (No judgment... Okay, maybe a little judgment.) A hidden drawer or vinyl storage box with a lid is perfect for stashing those “I swear it was a gift” records. Out of sight, out of mind, until that rainy Saturday afternoon when you’re alone and it’s finally time to put on Spice World. 6. Use the Walls (Because You’re Running Out of Floor Space) At some point, the floor stops being an option. This is when you get creative. Wall-mounted storage racks are the perfect way to display your vinyl as the art form it is. Plus, it says, “Yes, I am cultured enough to use my wall space for something other than TV cables.” With vinyl storage accessories like record frames, you can rotate your current favorites into the spotlight while keeping the rest of your collection neatly tucked away.
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PVC Sleeves, Vinyl Records and our Journey into Chemistry
We have had a lot overwhelmingly positive of feedback about one of our new products for record / LP enthusiasts - the Vinyl Top loader. However, our customers have also expressed concerns over the suitability of using PVC to store and protect records. These concerns led us to a few sites, including this blog where the effects of PVC outgassing on records was very concerning. Being inclined towards science and armed with relatively good google-Fu skills, we set out to get to the bottom of what was happening - a basic principal approach! TLDR: Soft, plasticized PVC Bad, Rigid PVC OK, but if concerned wrap your record in a jacket and polypropylene sleeve! How Records A Made Unsurprisingly to anyone that can read, Vinyl Records are made from Vinyl, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). A great rundown on the chemistry of records can be found here. We dived a bit further and discovered that all PVC outgasses to varying degrees and interestingly - if somewhat unsurprisingly - composition, additives and environmental factors all play a [art. Understanding PVC and Its Types PVC is extremely and is used in various applications. There are two main types of PVC: rigid and plasticized (soft). Rigid PVC is more durable and less likely to 'outgass', whereas plasticized PVC contains added chemicals to make it more flexible and its this flexibility that can lead to increase volatility, a hence higher outgassing of hydrochloric and hydrobromic acids. The Risks of Plasticized PVC Plasticized PVC can pose a significant risk to your vinyl records. The added plasticizers, which give the material its flexibility, can leach out over time. This process can lead to a sticky residue that may transfer onto the record's surface, causing irreversible damage. This is especially concerning for long-term storage, as even slight degradation can affect the audio quality and collectible value of your records. Temperature Considerations While it's not common practice to heat records, it's important to note that any PVC that comes into contact with vinyl should never be exposed to elevated temperatures. Heating can accelerate the leaching of plasticizers, increasing the risk of damage. Moreover, heat can cause warping of the records themselves, compromising their quality and playback. Conclusion: A Cautionary Note In conclusion, while PVC vinyl top loaders might seem like a convenient option for protecting your records, it's crucial to be cautious about the type of PVC used. Plasticized soft PVC should be avoided due to the risk of plasticizer migration and potential damage to your records. Even with rigid PVC, it's advisable to ensure that the sleeves are used in a stable, cool environment to prevent any heat-related issues. For the best long-term protection, consider using archival-quality, acid-free materials specifically designed for vinyl records (such as polypropylene or plastic). These options provide peace of mind, ensuring that your collection remains in pristine condition for years to come. Remember, when it comes to protecting your valuable records, it's better to be safe than sorry. Update #1 - 01/10/24 We have placed a record directly into one of our Rigid PVC Top loaders for about 2 months now, and will monitor and update its progress periodically! Update #2: 31/7/25 Its been close to a year and still no visible hazing! Note this is a test, dont put records in like this!
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Top 4 Comic Book Protection Ideas 2024
Want to know how to best preserve your valuable comic books? Read on for our best ideas and hacks for keeping them mint for years to come!
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Vinyl LP Record Protection Essentials + Tips
Hello, vinyl enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the thrilling world of vinyl record protection - because let's face it, there’s nothing sadder than a scratched classic or a saggy sleeve. So, buckle up as we explore the superhero gear for your beloved records! 1. The Mighty Outer Vinyl Sleeves: Your First Line of Defense! Picture this: You’ve just snagged an original, mint-condition copy of [insert iconic album here]. You’re beaming with pride. But wait! Before you parade it around, let’s talk about outer vinyl sleeves. These transparent shields are like the invisible force fields in sci-fi movies. They protect your record sleeves from the dangers of dust, dirt, and those sneaky ring wear marks that come from nowhere. Plus, they make your collection look like a shiny treasure trove. A win-win! Check them out here 2. Inner Sleeves: The Unsung Heroes of Scratch Prevention Moving on to the secret agents of record care - inner sleeves. These are not just any sleeves; they’re the guardians that prevent your records from getting scratched faster than a cat on a couch. Imagine sliding your record into a soft, anti-static inner sleeve. It’s like tucking it into a silk bed, safe and sound. No more heart-wrenching scratches, no more “whoops, there goes my favorite track” moments. Just pure, unadulterated music. Buy them here! 3. Our Super-Strong Record Storage Boxes: No Sag, No Break, No Joke! Now, let's talk about the ultimate fortress for your vinyl - our super-strong record storage boxes. We’ve seen regular boxes sag under the weight of records like a tired elephant on a hot day. Not ours! Designed to withstand the might of your ever-growing collection, these boxes don’t sag, they don’t break - they’re like the bodybuilders of record storage. With our boxes, your vinyls are not just stored; they're ensconced in a stronghold, ready to face the test of time (and the occasional clumsy friend). Pack them boxes here! In Conclusion: Suit Up Your Records! In the end, protecting your vinyl records is like preparing for an epic battle - except the enemies are dust, scratches, and saggy boxes. With outer vinyl sleeves, inner sleeves, and our Hercules-esque storage boxes, your records will be more protected than a celebrity in a crowd of paparazzi. Remember, folks, in the world of vinyl, it’s not just about the music. It’s about keeping that music spinning for years to come, in all its scratch-free, dustless glory. So suit up your records, and let the good times roll! #VinylProtection #RecordCare #NoScratchesOnMyWatch #StrongLikeVinyl
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