For me, it started with just a couple of records, picked up at random.
They sat on my desk, leaning against the wall, or worse—stacked on the floor. No big deal.
But then, like most collectors, I caught the bug. One or two records turned into ten. Then twenty. Then suddenly, vinyl was taking over my space—piling up on every available surface like some kind of chaotic music museum.
At that point, I knew I had to figure out a vinyl record storage solution. Not just to keep things tidy, but to actually show off my growing collection.
Because here’s the thing: once you’ve got a solid stack of records, how you store them matters. Your vinyl should look great, be easy to access, and most importantly—stay in top shape for years to come.
So whether you’re just getting started or already drowning in stacks of LPs, here are the best ways to store, organize, and protect your collection.
Table of Contents
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about storing your vinyl, broken down into the following sections:
- Understanding Your Vinyl Storage Needs and Finding the Right Setup
- Low/No-Cost Budget Vinyl Record Storage Ideas
- What are the Best Vinyl Record Storage Products and Furniture Options?
- DIY Vinyl Record Storage Solutions (Creative Storage Ideas from Our Community)
- Bringing It All Together: Vinyl Record Storage That Works
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Understanding Your Vinyl Storage Needs and Finding the Right Setup
Before we get into furniture and fancy shelves, let’s talk basics.
Vinyl records are more fragile than they look. Too much heat, sunlight, or moisture? That’s a one-way ticket to warped wax and ruined sleeves. If you want your collection to last, here’s what really matters:
- Keep it cool and dry. Heat and humidity are vinyl’s worst enemies. Aim for a temperature-stable room—no damp garages, hot attics, or sketchy basements.
- Avoid sunlight. Direct sunlight can fade covers and even damage the records themselves. Try to store your setup away from windows—or grab some UV-blocking curtains if needed.
- Always store upright. Records should stand vertically, like books. Stacking them flat (especially in piles) warps them over time.
- Use better sleeves. Paper inner sleeves break down. Invest in quality anti-static inner sleeves and clear plastic outers to protect your album covers.
- Disaster-proof your setup. Earthquakes? Curious pets? Kids with too much energy? If your records are in a high-risk zone (like on a tall shelf near a window), think through how secure everything is.
Once your environment’s dialed in, here’s a rough breakdown of what kind of storage makes sense:
0–10 records – Leave ’em on your desk. No shame.
10–50 records – Time for a crate, small shelf, or wall-mounted bracket.
50–500+ – You’re in “real setup” territory. Console, cube system, or cabinet.
500+ – It’s time to build furniture around your collection.
Low/No-Cost Budget Vinyl Record Storage Ideas
If you’re looking to store your records on a budget, there are a few creative options that require little to no cost. Think of this as getting resourceful with what you already have on hand.
And if you’re ready to step things up, we’ve also included some upgraded picks – options that add a bit more style, durability, and flexibility to your setup.
Some are full-on furniture pieces, while others are clever no-cost hacks that work surprisingly well.
We break each option down below the table.
| Category | Product | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crates | Milk Crates | $20 on Amazon | Classic and cheap, fits about 50 records — just make sure they’re sturdy enough to handle the weight safely. |
| HiFi Cabinet Co. – Moody Blue | $48 on Amazon | Premium crate built for LPs, holds up to 75 records with optional wheels for easy mobility. | |
| Wooden Boxes | CHOEZON Record Storage Crate | $25 on Amazon | Rustic repurposed wine crate that fits 20–50 records — great stacked or standalone with vintage charm. |
| Music Box Designs – Brown Bomber | $108 on Music Box Designs | Handcrafted solid oak crate — modular, display-ready, and pairs with the Vulgar Display of Vinyl. | |
| Storage Bins & Boxes | IKEA DRÖNA Box | $7 on Amazon | Simple square bins for keeping records upright — clean, sturdy, and easy to style. |
| Cardboard Boxes | Free or repurposed | Free and functional — just make sure they’re sturdy and stored somewhere dry. |
Milk Crates
Image credit: CleverMade
The Classic
Milk Crates
16qt – (2)
Milk crates are a vinyl collector’s classic. They’re often free or super cheap and fit vinyl records like they were made for them. These crates usually hold around 50 records comfortably, but a word of caution: make sure the crate is sturdy. Flimsy ones can break under the weight, leading to a not-so-fun accident with your records tumbling out. If you’re carrying a full crate, double-check its durability to avoid any mishaps.
If you’re budget-conscious, have some time, and aren’t shy, head to your local supermarket or restaurant. You can usually just ask, and they’ll have a few milk crates ready to give out for free. It’s a great way to save money and upcycle while keeping your records safe.
Image credit: Hifi Cabinet Co
The Premium
Moody Blue
Holds 75 Records
If milk crates are the scrappy classic for vinyl collectors, HiFi Cabinet Co crates are the polished, grown-up version. Designed specifically for records, these crates are made with high-quality materials that not only protect your collection but also look right at home next to a serious setup.
Each crate fits everything from standard LPs to box sets, and you can even add optional caster wheels if you want to move your collection around easily. It’s the same crate spirit — just leveled way up for people who want their storage to be as good as their sound.
Wooden Wine Boxes/Crates
Image credit: CHOEZON
The Classic
CHOEZON
Record Storage Crate
Wooden wine crates have a rustic, vintage feel and are easy to repurpose for records. They’re sturdy and can be stacked to hold a larger collection. Since wine crates vary in width and length, the exact number of records each can hold will differ—some might fit around 20 records, while others hold up to 50 or more, depending on size. For a more specific look or size, you can browse Etsy for vintage and custom options that cater to your style.
Similar to the crates, if you’re budget-conscious and enjoy a little DIY, check with your local Italian restaurant or wine shop—they might have spare wooden crates they’re happy to give away.
Image credit: Music Box Designs
The Premium
Music Box Designs
Brown Bomber
We recently had the pleasure of speaking with co-founder Philip Doucet, who shared a bit about what makes Music Box Designs special. If you’re looking for craftsmanship that feels personal – the kind you only get from independent workshops that put way more care into their pieces.
Their flagship Brown Bomber box is solid oiled oak, sanded smooth and built to last. The construction is tight, sturdy, and absolutely beautiful. What really stood out to me is the utility. The design works upright for a clean, crate-style look, or sideways for a more bookshelf, library-style setup. You can even stack and combine them modularly, creating a storage system that rivals IKEA’s Kallax – only with way more soul.
Phillip also highlighted the Vulgar Display of Vinyl, a more display-focused counterpart that doubles as a showcase piece for your favorite records. It’s a great add-on, and can sit neatly on top of the Brown Bomber.
There are a lot of great woodworking solutions out there, and sure, this one’s a bit of a premium. But speaking from experience, the feel is completely different from your standard Target find.
Storage Bins
Image credit: IKEA
The Utilitarian’s Choice
IKEA:
DRÖNA BOX
Basic storage bins from places like Target or IKEA can also work. Look for ones with square dimensions >12” and a hard plastic or metal frame to avoid warping.
Cardboard Boxes
Image credit: u/Educational-Pear-743
The Broke Utilitarian’s Choice
CARDBOARD BOX:
They’re easy to find and can hold a decent number of records, but similar to the milk crates make sure the box is strong enough to hold the weight without bending. Keep an eye on the box’s condition and be sure it’s stored in a dry area.
What are the Best Vinyl Record Storage Products and Furniture Options?
For those ready to invest a bit more in dedicated furniture, we’ve rounded up some of the best options on the market. These products aren’t just functional but add a bit more style and polish to your collection.
| Category | Product | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shelf Units & Cubes | IKEA – Kallax 8 Shelf Unit | $162 on Amazon | The gold standard for collectors. Modular, affordable, and perfectly sized for vinyl. Expandable with endless configuration options. |
| Deep Cut – Wall Cubes | $235 at Deep Cut | Handmade by a Minnesota family workshop. Sleek floating cubes in Walnut or Maple. A refined, minimalist display for modern setups. | |
| Wall-Mounted Displays | Record Roots – Vinyl Record Display Frame | $76.50 at Record Roots | 8-record wall frame with fabric backing that turns albums into artwork. Lightweight yet durable and ideal for gallery walls. |
| Deep Cut – Flip Record Display Shelf | $75 at Deep Cut | Minimal hardwood floating shelf that holds up to 15 records. Clean look, strong mount, and perfect for highlighting favorites. | |
| TEEbooks – Vinyl Record Storage Shelf | $229 at TEEbooks | Steel floating shelf system that makes your records appear to hover. Modern, minimalist, and rock-solid construction. | |
| Cabinets & Stands | IKEA – Stockholm & Besta Collections | Varies by model | Mid-century and modular units that balance cost, simplicity, and aesthetics. Ideal for clean, scalable listening setups. |
| Crosley – Portland Record Player Stand | $250 on Amazon | Compact MDF console with space for turntable and up to 200 records. Great for small spaces or Bluetooth setups. | |
| Ocean Beach Pallet Co. – Dropset Vinyl Storage | Starting at $557.75 | Double-decker handmade storage solution with warm wood tones. Boutique craftsmanship for serious collectors. |
Vinyl Storage Cubes
Image credit: IKEA
The Gold Standard
IKEA:
Kallax 8 Shelf Unit
Description
– Overall: 15”D x 58”W x 30”H
– Square Opening: 13 1/4” x 13 1/4”
– Made from Particle and Fiber board
Best For:
– Simplicity and Versatility
– Growing Collections
Hands down, the best option in terms of value and versatility is the IKEA Kallax. It’s become the gold standard for vinyl collectors, with cubbies that fit records perfectly while allowing you to expand storage as your collection grows. Plus, the cubes give you room to mix in decor items, speakers, or plants, letting you build a setup that’s both functional and visually appealing. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s honest work.
Each Kallax cube measures 13.25″ x 13.25″, giving you just the right amount of breathing room for a 12×12″ vinyl. Check out our build, Elevated Audiophile’s Den to see how an 8×8 unit looks with a full listening room setup.
You can also go big or small with this design—Kallax also comes in 4×4 or even 1×1 configurations, so it’s easy to customize based on your space and collection size.
Image credit: Deep Cut
The Elegant
Deep Cut:
Wall Cubes
Description
– Overall: 13 1/4”D x 15”W x 15”H
– 13 lbs / 5.9 kg
– Typically holds between 50-65 Records
– Available in Walnut or Maple
Best For:
– Modern, Minimalist Aesthetics
– Flexible Wall Arrangements
If you’re looking for a pricier but stylish option in the cube family, Deep Cut’s Wall Cube might be the perfect fit. This design combines style with practicality, offering that sleek, floating look that elevates any vinyl display. I personally love the floating look and think this is great for someone who wants to achieve this aesthetic. These cubes also provide flexibility; you can arrange multiple units in various layout, making it easy to adapt to your style and wall space.
All of Deep Cut’s products are handmade in their Minnesota woodshop by a family-owned business—two brothers and a cousin. Knowing this level of care and craftsmanship goes into every cube gives it a special touch, and it’s clear they put pride into each design. You love to see it.
Wall-Mounted Record Storage
Image credit: Record Roots
The Gallery Piece
Record Roots:
Vinyl Record Display Frame
Description
– Overall: 29.5”W x 54.5”H
– Holds 8 Records
– Made from Quality Fabric
Best For:
– Displaying Lots of Records
– Easy Access For Listening
– Flexible/Modular Design
This product has been on the rise, and it’s easy to see why—hats off to Record Roots for their marketing and an innovative approach to record storage. These frames lean into the concept of vinyl as art that deserves to be displayed, transforming your records into a true wall of sound.
Crafted with high-quality, two-tone dark grey fabric, the frame offers both protection and style. Unlike typical vinyl frames, the fabric material is lightweight and easy to handle, yet it has a solid appearance from a distance. It’s an unexpected choice that adds to the frame’s unique feel and sets this product apart from other displays. Yes, they’re a bit on the pricier side, but Record Roots often offers bundle deals, making it worth keeping tabs on, especially if you plan on buying a few.
Image credit: Deep Cut
The Modern Solution
Deep Cut:
Flip Record Display Shelf
Description
– Overall: 5 3/4”D x 2”W x 4”H
– 1lb / .45kg
– Holds up to 15 records
– Available in Hardwood, Walnut, or Maple
Best For:
– Displaying a small, curated collection
– Adding a minimalist touch
– Saving space
The Deep Cut team makes a second appearance, this time with a simple and elegant floating bracket designed to hold up to 15 records. and crafted from hardwood, they feature a keyhole mounting system that’s as sturdy as it is minimalist. Ideal for those looking to store a smaller collection or showcase select favorites, Deep Cut’s brackets bring a clean, understated aesthetic to any space.
Get 15% off with code RECORDBUILDSDC15
Image credit: TEEbooks
The Simple Showcase
TEEbooks:
Floating Wall Shelf
Description
– Overall: 9 3/4”D x 17 3/4”W x 6”H
– 4.4lb / 2kg
– Holds up to 120 records/Shelf
– Made from FE 360 DC01 Steel
Best For:
– Modern Vinyl Aesthetics
– Mid-Sized Collections
– Saving space
The Tee Books floating shelf system makes your vinyl look like it’s just… hovering there. It’s clean. Minimal. No bulky furniture—just a wall of records that looks like something out of a design magazine.
And yeah, it’s not the cheapest option. But it’s solid. Built to hold up to 60 records per shelf and not give you anxiety every time you walk by. No wobble. No sag. Just clean lines and peace of mind.
If you’re the type who wants your collection to feel like part of the room—not something stuffed in a crate—this is the move.
Record Cabinets and Consoles
Image credits: IKEA
Shop the BESTÅ Collection Below
Image credits: IKEA
Shop the STOCKHOLM Collection Below
Description
– Minimalist, High-Quality, Builds
Best For:
– Budget Conscious
– Simplicity and Versatility
– Growing Collections
If you’re after solid vinyl record storage without torching your budget, IKEA’s Stockholm and Besta collections are the gold standard. Stockholm brings that clean, mid-century vibe with upgraded finishes—it looks way more expensive than it is. Simple, elegant, and sturdy enough to hold a growing collection without becoming the focal point of your room (unless you want it to be).
Then there’s Besta, which is basically vinyl storage LEGO. You can mix and match shelves, add doors, change the finish, stack it high, stretch it wide—whatever works for your space. It’s modular, flexible, and doesn’t scream “IKEA” once you’ve styled it out. For anyone trying to keep their setup clean, organized, and wallet-friendly, this is a great place to start.
Image credit: Sidetracked Workshop
An Absolute Showstopper
Sidetracked Workshop:
Headliner
Description
– Overall: 14 1/4”D x 46”W x 29”H
– Stores up to 375 records
– Made from Walnut
Best For:
– Showing off a “real” grown-up setup
– Mid-century, plant-filled living rooms
Maybe the most Instagrammable record console on this whole list.
If the Kallax is “I’m getting serious about this,” the Headliner is “my records are the furniture now.” It’s a full-on centerpiece: real walnut veneer, brass accents, and room for around 300 LPs. The top is made for your turntable, the middle bay fits a receiver or integrated amp, and the side/bottom cubbies give your speakers and records an actual home instead of living on the floor “temporarily” for six months.
Each unit is made to order in Portland, OR by a small shop crew, ships mostly pre-assembled (you just screw on the feet), and feels way closer to heirloom furniture than anything flat-pack. Because it’s real walnut, every console ends up with its own grain and tone so your setup looks like yours, not the same piece everyone else grabbed at a big box store.
And when (not if) your collection keeps growing, Sidetracked builds everything with modularity in mind, so you can add matching pieces and turn it into one big, intentional system instead of a random pile of cabinets. Awesome work from a legit wood working team.
Image credit: Amazon
The Compact Setup
CROSLEY:
Portland Record Player Stand
Description
– Overall: 15”D x 28”W x 31 1/4”H
– Stores up to 200 records
– Made from MDF
Best For:
– Compact Setups
– Floor Standing Speakers
Before we jump to any Crosley criticism, let’s keep it reasonable here. Crosley isn’t the enemy (it’s just those suitcase players we all know to avoid). They actually make some quality furniture and, believe it or not, even some respectable turntables.
We’re highlighting this option because it offers a compact, tidy setup that is great for especially those limited on space. The Portland is great for neatly organizing your setup in a single, streamlined unit. Now, while it’s perfect for holding a solid record collection, it does max out at around 200 records, so keep that in mind. Also, there isn’t any built-in space for speakers, making this setup more ideal for those using floor-standing speakers or Bluetooth systems.
Check out the Budget Vinyl Nook build to see how a full setup fits within this unit.
Image credit: OCEAN BEACH PALLET CO.
The Double Decker
Ocean Beach Pallet Co:
Dropset Vinyl Record Storage
Description
– Overall: 14”D x 50-75”W x 16”H
– Made From Wood
– 9+ Color/Stain Options
Best For:
– Handcrafted, Stylish Aesthetic
– Turntable Isolation
If you’re looking for a legit home base for your setup, the DropSet from Ocean Beach Pallet Co. is it. Solid wood, handcrafted, no BS. It’s got that real weight to it—like, once you put this thing in your space, it’s not going anywhere. . Customers consistently mention that solid construction and meticulous attention to detail—these folks at Ocean Beach Pallet Co. clearly know their craft, and it shows.
What we love most? The layout. It’s not just a box with shelves—it’s clearly made for vinyl heads. That middle section fits a turntable perfectly. The raised sides? Ideal for your speakers. And there’s space underneath for your amp, accessories, or a fat stack of records. Everything just fits. Clean, intentional, and it looks damn good doing it.
It’s one of the few pieces we’ve seen that doesn’t just store your gear—it brings the whole setup together.
Image credit: Waxrax
The Rolling Record Library
Waxrax: RC-2 Vinyl Record Cart
Description
– Overall: 30”x18”x34”
– Powder-coated steel + anodized aluminum
Best For:
– Collectors with 250–400+ LPs who want a “record-store flip” experience at home
– Rooms that reconfigure -cleaning days, cataloging, or moving gear around
– Design-forward setups that want premium storage to double as furniture
This is one of the coolest things we’ve come across-a boutique record cart that’s equal parts furniture and utilitarian audiophile storage. WaxRax manufactures custom solutions; it’s a neat idea and actually really clever: moving a big collection is effortless, and the top browser section keeps your favorites in view.
DIY Vinyl Record Storage Solutions (Creative Storage Ideas from Our Community)
This summer, we held a Vinyl Storage Photo Contest, inviting vinyl lovers from all over to share their unique storage solutions. We received a lot of creative entries, showcasing everything from handcrafted shelves to repurposed furniture. Below, we’re highlighting a few standout ideas that inspired us and hopefully, can do the same for you.
Vinyl Card Catalog,
Build Of The Month July ’24 Winner
Starting with our winner, u/EttaEtta1013, who blew us away with their Vinyl Card Catalog.
This DIY homemade build was inspired by the classic library card catalogs—those vintage storage systems you kids might be too young to remember. The design combines nostalgia and practicality: each drawer glides smoothly on rollers and includes a backstop to keep records perfectly vertical, even if the drawer isn’t full. It’s an innovative solution that allows listeners to admire the album art while still providing the utility needed to store a large quantity of vinyl.
Submission by u/Ettaetta1013
Glass Sided Storage
Next up, we have the Glass Sided Storage from u/JoooooshSpin, another stunning DIY, handmade solution.
In need of a place to store their records but unimpressed with what was available for purchase, they decided to build this beautiful piece themselves. The result? Two striking storage towers featuring solid oak shelves and structural, toughened glass sides. It’s a practical yet elegant design that not only holds a large vinyl collection but, as shown in the photo, can even double as a speaker shelf—sitting at just the right height for optimal sound projection.
Submission by u/JoooooshSpin
Browser Bin With Vertical Storage
Finally, we have the Browser Bin with Vertical Storage from u/ASTU.
Yet another impressive, hand-built DIY solution, this piece was crafted to satisfy two major vinyl storage needs: a browser bin for easy flipping through records and plenty of vertical storage space. According to ASTU, the heavy-duty unit holds over 300 albums comfortably, without feeling cramped. Constructed from durable plywood with dado joints, glue, nails, and finished with a sleek coat of paint, this design brings the best of both worlds. It captures the joy of browsing through albums, just like at a record store, while providing substantial storage below for a larger collection
Submission by u/ASTU
Bringing It All Together: Vinyl Record Storage That Works
Whether you’re just getting started or already knee in the hobby, one thing’s for sure—vinyl takes up space. And how you store it? That’s not just about keeping things tidy. It’s about protecting your collection, showing it off, and creating a setup that actually makes you want to sit down and listen.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve got 15 records or 500. Once you’ve caught the bug, those records deserve more than a leaning tower of milk crates. They deserve a proper home.
The good news? There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Some people swear by IKEA hacks. Others go full custom. Some just want to get records off the floor. Others want a centerpiece that turns heads when friends come over.
You’ve seen a bunch of options here—everything from repurposed wine boxes to handmade consoles that look like they belong in a design magazine. But what really matters is finding something that works for your space, your budget, and your vibe.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the choices? You’re not alone. That’s actually why we started putting these roundups together. Because when you’re staring at 1,000 furniture options or Reddit threads that never end, it helps to see real-world setups from people who’ve figured it out.
The takeaway? You don’t need the fanciest furniture to make your setup feel special. You just need a plan—and a little inspiration never hurts.
