Remove the plastic shrink wrap in which new vinyl albums are packaged. Over time this wrapping shrinks and may damage the record. Replace paper inner liners with polyethylene liners. Paper liners contain acid that degrade the vinyl. Purchase polyethylene liners at most specialty record shops.
Store vinyl albums in a closed (preferably airtight) cabinet or box designed for vinyl record storage. Never store vinyl albums in a dusty or smoky area. The airborne particles adhere to the surface.
Regulate the temperature and humidity in your vinyl album storage area. Maintain a temperature between 50 to 60 degrees. Humidity should be fairly low (around 40 percent to 50 percent) to prevent mold from forming on dust jackets (album covers) or liners.
Place vinyl albums at an angle when storing. Ideally, the album should be resting on a slanted surface. Never stand albums on edge for storage or simply stack them. Over time, either will cause the vinyl to warp, damaging the records.