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Why You Should Use Inner and Outer Record Sleeves

Accumulating, organizing, and maintaining a record collection can be quite the investment, but if you’re in it for the long haul, double-sleeving your records is the only way to go. Double-sleeving is the use of both protective inner and outer record sleeves. Inner sleeves house your vinyl and easily slide inside your record covers. Outer sleeves slide over your record jackets and protect all the contents within.

Companies like Music Record Shop produce various types of inner and outer sleeves that help protect your collection. Using both types of sleeves is an inexpensive and simple way to make sure your records always look and sound great. Below, you’ll learn more about the ways these slim plastic wonders can make a world of difference.

Double-Sleeving Prevents Unnecessary Wear to Your Vinyl

Outer sleeves may seem like a no-brainer, but inner sleeves are also essential if you’re looking to keep your vinyl in pristine condition. Without inner sleeves, your records could suffer from scuffs and scratches as you slide them in and out of their jackets. Most new records come with a paper inner sleeve and these are better than having no sleeve at all. However, if you are looking to take an additional step to prevent scuffs, you may want to upgrade to a poly-lined paper sleeve or an anti-static plastic sleeve.

Inner and Outer Sleeves Keep Dust from Getting in Grooves

In addition to scratches and other blemishes, dust can have a negative impact on the way your records sound. If you use inner and outer sleeves, you have two lines of defense as dust tries to infiltrate your record collection. If you’re looking to take things a step further, a classic 3mil sleeve or extra thick 4mil sleeve will provide you with additional peace of mind.

Record Jackets Are Best Protected with Both Types of Sleeves

Outer sleeves obviously protect your record jackets, but inner sleeves also help. The edges of your records can cause wear and tear and may eventually cause seam splits if you play your records a lot or move often. Housing your vinyl in inner sleeves will provide an additional layer of protection for your record covers.

Inner and Outer Sleeves Provide More Storage Options

If your vinyl is protected by inner sleeves, it opens up another storage possibility. Instead of keeping every record inside its jacket, you can store your records outside of their jackets, but inside their plastic outer sleeves. This allows you to quickly access your vinyl and helps keep your record covers from developing ring wear. This is also a great option if you are planning a big move and want to make sure your record covers don’t get damaged in transit.

Records Retain Value When You Double-Sleeve

Taking care of your records provides a better listening experience and, visually, few things are as pleasing to the eye as a near-mint record. You can derive a great sense of pride from a clean record collection, and double sleeving is one of the most efficient ways to maintain your vinyl’s current grading. If you ever find yourself in a pinch, you know you can sell your double-sleeved records at prices that prove your passion was actually a wise investment. This is also a great point to raise if you are trying to justify your collecting habits to significant others or family members.

Photo provided by Music Record Shop. Published in partnership with Music Record Shop. 

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