It's a regular dilemma for me ... different types of protective sleeves for my vinyl album covers... each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Which one to choose??
My Beatle mono box has the flap bags, but I think I prefer the heavy plastic ones, just because they are a little bit more durable and really quick to store. For me if I want to enjoy the album, I want to fully take it out of the bag and go through the album, liner notes, gatefold whatever as I listen to get that full experience of that album. Sometimes, and I don't know if it is a bit OCD or not, but if I have the flap bag I might double bag it with the other heavy duty one too. Now you have the best of both worlds on protection. Because the heavier one is slightly bigger than the album while the flap bag is form fitting. At any rate I do the same and protect the albums as soon as I get them.
I love the "blake sleeves" with flap. not very handy to handle the records, but they are well protected (also against dust) and the look is awesome. I load them with the spine of the record to the flap side, so the spines are perfectly visible. Like this, the shelfed records look as if there where no sleeve at all, love it!
Interesting question. I happened to come across your video on the same day that I was thinking about how I want to bag my collection. Since my collection is quite a bit smaller than yours, I'm using milk crates rather than shelving, since I like to flip through the covers rather than read the spines. For that reason, the clearer bags with the flap will mostly be my play. But ask me again once my collection is the same size as yours! Haha. Great video, Joe, as always.
I put my records in the same way as you, almost! but with the spine of the record cover up against the flap so you can read what record it is in the rack without having to take it out. Here in the U.K. I use the very strong but still crystal clear 75 micron Blake type sealable sleeves for my 5 & 7 mm thick LP records and the standard 40-50 micron for the 3 mm LP Records. They all fit nice and snug. I had real issues with the 30 micron sleeves, they are too thin and split far too easily, 30 microns is just not strong enough. The misty polythene sleeves are stronger still but I agree with you they don’t show off your treasured first editions half as well! Thumbs up to you.
8:33 is why I don't use flaps. LOL I really don't like the noisy process of pealing those open and risk getting damage to the sleeve if it comes in contact with the sticky strip. To your point: Gotta have the sleeves. Due to money and resources, 50% of my collection is in clear bags 40% cloudy bags and 10% no sleeves. I love the clear bags (blake sleeves) with no flap, open from the right side. I am beginning to switch to open top because the plastic bunches up when placing them on the shelf. I haven't purchased bags with the flaps but to your point about dust and moisture, I have a few I acquired and I use those for my most valuable records. Flap on top. Cheers!
Do the flaps unstick after taking the record out so many times? I'd like to see a video of you submerging records in water to see whether or not the sleeves protect the covers from water damage. I want to be sure my vinyl is 100% protected in case of a flood.
Great video ! I have the same dilemma as you do. While I prefer the protection of the heavier sleeves, they are too cloudy. I don't care for the sleeves with the adhesive : a couple of " accidents " have turned me against those. My friend at the local used record store recently turned me on to a clear sleeve similar to those, but without the fold over adhesive. While they are not as strong as the heavier poly sleeves, I find they work quite well, if not abused. Guess that's what I'm sticking with, till something better comes along.
I use the bags with the flaps that seal. For years I used the top loading sleeves that your showed in the beginning of the video. However, I found those type of sleeves get scuffed and dirty much easier that the resealing sleeves. Just my preference. Both work to keep your records clean.
I have four questions for you. #1 where can I purchase the clear vinyl bags with the adhesive flap? #2 in your experience when you use this type of bag does the adhesive wear off when frequently opened and closed? #3 when a record is left on the shelf a long time does the adhesive become attached to the plastic too strongly and rip the bag when attempting to open? #4 does the adhesive ever accidentally stick onto the record sleeve or the record itself and leave behind a sticky residue?
+Brett Wright 1) Bags Ulimited (online). 2) No, the adhesive has never worn off, but I imagine you would have to open the flap many many times before that happens - and I haven't played any one record enough times yet. But even if it came off after 50 or so openings, you can just replace it with a fresh one. 3) No.. 4) No .. but one time I had an open sticky flap sleeve lying down with the sticky flap openly exposed, and I accidentally placed the front cover of a bare second LP on top of it, and it damaged that second cover.. but that kind of mistake you don't make a second time .. just be sure to re-seal the flap as soon as you take out the record (or else don't place an unprotected second cover right on top of an opened sticky flap!).
I really want resealable ones for my vinyls but I can't seem to find a good maker. Any suggestions on what a good one is? Like brand name or something to help me track them down? I found some on Amazon but the reviews say they are too tight on double LPs and some don't even fit at all.
I side-load my jacket into a thick cloudy outer, record in a Mofi inner, into my kallax cube. Then, pop an album front of the cube (and a sleeved mailer cardboard on their tops) to block the exposed sides from dust.
I use the thick one...I wont be changing them anytime soon...I would need a million new sleeves..I'm not that picky as long as the record is protected..
Hey Mr Mayo. Is there a way I can send you a pick of a unique inner sleeve from Yellow Submarine? I’d like to get your thoughts on this. Thx. Enjoyed your live feed last night, btw.
I use the clear "blake sleeve" with no flaps... but I side load. Does anyone else do that? I feel that I can get the record in and out of the sleeve w/o having to take the sleeve out of the plastic at all. My other concern is that dust settles from the top down. If my openings were up, even on the shelf, dust would settle down in there. Thoughts?
+Greg Boyd - Yes, other people do side load -- but I don't like doing that with the no flap sleeves. I too am concerned with dust getting down in the top, which is the reason I prefer the flaps. No dust, water, anything with the flaps.
Nothing beats Blake Sleeves with the sealed Flap IMO... Looks Amazing, protects well, Can Top Load or side Load, and are not any more expensive than your normal sleeve.
Joe, have you tried the no flap Blake sleeves? They're all I use. Crystal clear and no sticky annoyance. There are some UA-cam vids that show them. Just search "Blake no flap sleeves"
Hello Joe, I use the Blake sleeves sealable flaps. I just think they look better, however I use the poly sleeves for gatefolds and double albums as the Blake sleeves aren't big enough, although I think you can get larger sealable flap sleeves. I get what you say about the flap getting damaged as I have had the same problem because I store my records like you. But bottom line, the sealable flap sleeves protect the records better.....and they just look better, so I prefer those. Great video as always Joe.......Paul
Very interesting topic! I've always wondered what's the best sleeve to use. Myself, I use the first kind you showed (the non-sealable ones), only instead of loading them from the top, I load them from the side. Now, a lot of collectors will tell you that that's no good because the side where the record comes out is exposed, BUT you have the INNER sleeve doing its job and protecting the LP from dust (and other things deemed evil to vinyl) lol! AND, like you said toward the end, this way here you can just pull the record out without having to touch the actual cover. It's all a matter of opinion and preference really, there's no "right" sleeve nor is there a "wrong"' sleeve, it's really what you like the best... Cheers! -Jex
+CineBrosSupreme -How do you store the records this way? Do you put them on shelves, and does the outer sleeve come off when trying to pull records in and out from between each other?
+MeanMr Mayo I store them on shelves much like yours in the background there, and for the most part I don't have issues with the outer sleeves coming off, I mean it happens on occasion, but over all it's been working out for me, lol! :)
Good video - a traumatic subject for me. I wrecked the sleeve of a 1969 Fairport Convention lp which was in a pile with a sticky flap that got loose or I forgot to close it fully. The adhesive took off a whole strip of the photo on the lp sleeve from top to bottom...disaster. Found a company that makes the clear with flap but not sticky - the flap just folds in
escazon1, Please share the name of that company. I have not purchased sleeves with sticky flaps for precisely the reason you detailed. I have a few lp's that came in these bags, and they drive me nuts. So, where do you get such bags without the glue?
I ALWAYS use the Japanese resealable outer sleeves. Trust me, mine have been put to the test because I live in a house of smokers! UGH! Fortunately, my room sits near the back of the house so I barely get any of the smoke, but when I wipe my sleeves with a small amount of Windex all purpose cleaner (with vinegar), there's still a very faint residue sometimes. However there seems to be NO TRACE at all on the jackets. Some of my sleeves are over 10 years old and they're STILL going strong!
Love this video! Since my last comment I went out and replaced all my "bag" sleeves with the adhesive flap sleeves and it only cost me $85.00! It was worth it though. I have a secure feeling knowing that my records are protected on all sides and the covers look great with the clear sleeves. I side loaded the records so I can remove them without taking the sleeve off which protects them even more from fingerprints, etc. and the adhesive never comes in contact with the record or the cover. They take a little more effort to use but in my opinion it's worth it. Oh and I kind of like the sound that's made when opening the adhesive flap. Weird I know.
+Brett Wright -- Since making this video I have made one change. I now have the flap at the TOP of the LP. I have done this so they slide in and out of the shelves much easier, without the flap getting mangled. The down side though is I must remove the bag when I listen to the album, and risk the fingerprints. But nothing is perfect!
+MeanMr Mayo Good move. Now if by chance the record is down low and there's a spill, no liquid can enter the bag. I know this really don't matter to you as you store your records in a shelf. but for the person who may live in a basement and be subject to floods it's best as you said nothing is perfect.
I would put the sealable ones with the flap on the top to the back not the mouth of the jacket. Water will get in the resealable ones with the flat at the spine or mouth of the jacket. Doing it the way I said will protect the whole jacket unless you got a couple feet of water while the jackets are on the bottom. The resealable ones with the flap at the top-back of the jacket should not bend at the flap.
Would like to see a video containing the pros and cons when comparing different shelf systems. For instance "Kallax" v/s the new shelf system from IKEA - "Eket". Also would be interested in getting info if 12" with "Blake Sleeves" with flap will fit into this new "Eket" system, as these have the inner dimension of 32 cm. So if anyone have stored their records in the "Eket" system. Then please post a video of your experiences. WIth and without outer plastic sleeves, how it works with Box-Sets etc... Would be very helpful. Thanks! Great videos by the way MeanMrMayo! Cheers...
My vinyl collection has been boxed up for over 20 years. I am getting ready to start the daunting process of going through every box to re-sleeve all the albums. My goal, once I finish my 'music room' is to store all my albums on display shelf cases. Before my collection (over 3500 albums) was boxed up, a large number of them were placed in the old plastic sleeves, which probably are no longer even safe to use since the technology has improved, sleeves are now thicker and acid free. Pros & cons were pointed out, but for me, I will probably just top load all the records and keep something light on top so dust does not creep in from the exposed top of the plastic sleeve. I just bought my first bag of outer sleeves from Big Fudge, with the 3mm thickness. What I like about these is that they can hold gatefold albums as well as double records. Some plastic sleeves are too thin for thicker album covers, so this is something you need to be aware of...
The advantages of the thicker ones is that they sell them for gatefold covers which is cool, you can grab the record and open it, whereas no one has come up with a similar one for the clearer sleeves, and most of them can't store the newer, thicker albums, let alone double or triple albums. Another drawback of the new ones is that they break and split open on the sides so easily so often, I have to seal them again with tape and that looks horrendous and degrade over time.. The Music On Vinyl sleeves are a pain, they split open even when unused. Someone must come up with better designed and manufactured transparent sleeves.
Thanks for responding to my message joe . Also liked you talking about that strange guy you bought that revolver sealed edition from sixtees surprised shop let him return do you think he kept inner bag . And think its cool the way you collect. Wish I had some of the finds you get in America I have a son at Connecticut uni started a four year course hoping he can find me things lol he likes vinyl like his dad I’m from Northern Ireland but live in Coventry not good area for collecting and record fairs are rip off prices same people same records that never sell and they are snobby about older vinyl against newer vinyl cheers joe have a great evening
I seen records that touch the sticky part and it very hard to get the sticky glue off the vinyl. I have found clear none sticky sleeves which solved the cloudy problem. These clear sleeves do not make the crackle noise and do not tear like some of the seal ones do. ( from acoustic sounds for cleat open non crackle sounding sleeves )
True but I have the sleeve opening on the top when I shelve them and put record upright ( opening of record turn to close side ). I just do not like the sticky part ( record and cover could be damage ). As always you bring up some of the best topics and love the record store videos ( you have a very nice local store ).
I double bag my records, exactly as you showed in the last part of this video. Using a clear sealable sleeve inside a thicker open sleeve. It adds extra protection using two sleeves and i`ve never had any problem storing or removing records from two sleeves.
+MeanMr Mayo Obviously using two sleeves takes up slightly more room but i`m fortunate in that i have a large music room and plenty of Ikea Expedit units still to be filled. I`m a bit fanatical about protecting my collection. I buy lots of dance 12"s and a lot of them come in generic plain card dj sleeves and even those i store in two outer sleeves. Not so much to protect the sleeve but to protect the vinyl from dust / static. And every record is housed in polylined inner sleeves to avoid scratching when removing the vinyl. I can`t believe how many collectors here on UA-cam house their vinyl in cheap inner sleeves. Those things ruin vinyl.
Have to disagree with the last part ... I have no problem with the paper inner sleeves... there are so many records that have been housed in paper sleeves for decades, and as long as the vinyl was cared for and returned to the sleeve, they play great. I don't see how any of the vinyl got 'ruined'. I think you have just given me an idea for a new video! :)
+MeanMr Mayo When you remove and insert vinyl into a standard paper sleeve that isn`t polylined the friction between the vinyl and the sleeve can create small scratch marks on the vinyl. Polylined sleeves dont grip the vinyl like standard paper sleeves and polylined sleeves create no friction. If you`re happy with standard sleeves that`s cool but i wouldn`t house any of my vinyl in those sleeves.
Yes, I'm sure the polylined sleeves are more ideal; I'm just saying that records have been coming safely in and out of paper sleeves for many decades and -- as long as everything is done carefully -- the records always sound like new.
Hi Joe, great question. I just use the sleeves without the flaps. I'm terrified of the stickiness on the fold-over flap sticking to the outer sleeve, or heaven forbid, sticking to the vinyl if I set a record down on a sleeve. I'm clumsy, and the sticky part of those sleeves irritates me. Also irritating: that Velcro sound when you open those sleeves. Ack! ;-) Tom
I package the jackets without the record in a sealed flap bag, then put the records in a separate sleeve and then package the jacket housed in the flap bag and the records housed in the separate sleeve and put them both in a flapless bag. That way you never have to handle the jacket again and dust can't get in and you don't have the problem of the flaps getting all messed up. I package all my albums and 45s this way and my Elvis collection is quite large at around 300+ albums. This system works quite well for me. Just thought I would share.
Hi, Joe. I use both. My LPs that are of higher value/quality are put in blake sleeves (w/flaps), right-hand loaded, like you. It allows you to leave the jacket in the sleeve and just remove the disc to play. I use the heavier sleeves for cheaper LPs AND all the LPs on the bottom cubbies of my shelf. My collection is in a basement room, so if there is ever a flood, the LPs on the bottom are top-loaded in the heavier sleeve. Cheers, Jeff
These Blake sleeves, do they fit newly released vinyls? Your comment helped me track down a resealable cover with good reviews finally but there's a review that says it doesn't fit new releases, just older vinyls. I'm 23 so all I have are newer releases haha any insight would be awesome
Protection and presentation is what it’s all about. I’ve changed most of my records to Blake Sleeves and I will never go back. As far as loading is concerned, the sleeves are designed to be put in from the side so that when the flap is folded over there is no seem to block the album info. I also don’t like to store the record outside the sleeve; that’s the purpose of the sleeve in the first place. The reason so many covers had ring wear was because we didn’t use protective sleeves back in the day. Now, on the flip side, I can see using the new sleeves that are coming out of Canada that utilize a separate section for the record and a flap for the cover. Melinda Murphy did a nice video showing these and Frank from Channel 33 RPM had the fellow that designed these as a guest on a video a few months back. I would think that for a guy that seeks out records in shrink you would want the best protection. You can’t beat the way these sleeves make our records look. Thanks for the always great videos.
Christopher - A major problem with the re-sealable sleeves opening from the side is they always get crunched up when pulling them out and then in again from the record cabinet. For records which have the shrink on them I am content to place them in the regular "top loading" non-resealable type. I would like to watch the videos you've suggested about the Canada sleeves.
I’ve had a few flaps get bent but the cost is relatively inexpensive and it doesn’t bother me. I’m just careful when I slide them in. There was one viewer that prefers the 5mil Sleeve City. I used these before I switched to the genuine Blake Sleeve and there is no comparison. The Sleeve City do get milky after awhile and the Blake’s don’t. To each his own☺️👌
Hey Joe, good point, what outer sleeves should we use? Personally I prefer to use the ones without the flaps, however I think they probably offer more protection, so I will try and get some for my more expensive records, (Stones, Beatles, Bob Dylan, etc...) However, I would like to ask where you recommend picking them up. Is there a website where you can find them at a good price? Because when I see them, they're normally quite pricey! Anyway, good video, enjoyed watching. ;)
+VinylBlog1965 This is where is purchase mine. After a lot of research I found these to be the best:www.clearbags.com/bags/album/12-5-8-x-12-5-8-crystal-clear-album-cover-no-flap-100-pieces-blp1nf.html I also get my inner sleeves from here: www.sleevecityusa.com/Polylined-Paper-Record-Sleeves-50-Pack-p/12inpolylined.htm Hope this helps!
It's no contest for me - I go with the clear bags with sealable flap. I like that the album fits snug, and even older album covers with dull finishes get a new glossy look. Seems like every used album I buy has one of those thick, dull, cloudy bag. I either tell the clerk they can keep, or I just toss it when I get home. All my albums get sealed in a new clear bag. The record itself goes in a new polylined sleeve, and the record is kept outside of the cover - not in. If the album came with a special sleeve (with photo/artwork, or lyrics) it's preserved inside the album. If it's just paper - it gets tossed.
Record stores put the albums for sale in the cheapest sleeves they can find. Most are not going to spend the money on better sleeves but leave it up to the end user to do themselves.
I use the BCW 2 mil polypropylene , they are very thin and very shiny, they are light weight and make even worn LPs look new, the thicker 4 mil wear and make nice LPs look like crap I am very picky as are you,and I really think you should at least try these. I replaced all my thicker bags with these and actually had fun doing it and I have lots of records
tednbud9999 - It's been awhile since I made this video, but these days I do have the flaps at the top when using the re-sealable flapped sleeves. Only bad thing about that is, now I have to take the jacket out of the sleeve every time I want to play the record.
There are two types of sleeves, polypropylene (clear) and polyurethane (cloudy). I recently bought 200 polypropylene sleeves and tossed out all my polyurethane sleeves. They are too cloudy and they don't last very long. It's a long overdue up- grade. The standard size of a single album is 12.5 x12.75. The sleeves I purchased were 12.75 x 13" so they were not an exact fit. I had enough room in each sleeve for two albums. I have two copies of a lot of albums so it worked out okay. I only wish they made and outer sleeve for an exact fit (12.5 ×12.75). One size fits all? I beg to differ!
I've been using the resealable for years now, but I've just recently had this dilemma too. I love the clarity of flaps but it is very much of a hassle to me recently. But think I might change the way the jacket is in the sleeve.
+guely55 - Hello, and thanks for the comment. I would not do the records that way because the bag would keep sliding off as I tried to put them between each other on my shelves.
+MeanMr Mayo Thats' true! I'm just too lazy and careful to touch them everytime I wanna give them a spin . They are perfect for a Ikea trunk I have . Too bad they are discontinued.
So why not top load the clear sleeve so the flap points down? Then putting them in and out of the shelf will not pull the flap back. By the way, while the clear sleeves look a lot better, the plastic seems to crack easier than the cloudy ones.
+margaretsville - Well, if you watched the whole video you'd see that I don't want to have to take the clear sleeve OFF and touch the jacket -- which I'd have to do if the flap was on bottom (or top). .. I meant to mention in the video that I don't see the thinner clear sleeves cracking or splitting, unless they're handled too roughly. (And even if they DO crack or split, a new stock replacement can be substituted).
Also, when you mention having to take the record all the way out when the flap is positioned on top--I like to store my records in the inner sleeve behind the jacket. So it's not stored inside the jacket. I was given a tip on preventing seam wear/splitting on the record jackets by using this method. And you never have to take the jacket all the way out this way. To each their own and it's all personal preference. Just sharing!
+jshdllrd - It's all good-- Whatever seems to work is fine. Personally, I never see jacket seams in danger of splitting unless they're much older LPs, like from the '50s (and some '60s). I'm always hesitant to place a record outside the jacket because I feel it's dangerous to have the record more exposed like that (and the jacket is for the disc's protection).
+MeanMr Mayo that's a good point also. You really should order a small pack of the no flap Blake sleeves to try out. I think you would be pleased.
8 років тому
+MeanMr Mayo I actually use generic thin white cardboard jackets and put the record inside those (with a non-static inner sleeve), and put that behind the empty album cover. Problem is, you can't see the back of the album. There is no perfect method. I'm always trying new ones. It can drive you nuts!!
Is it weird if only 20% of my collection has a Plastic sleeve in general? lolI never got into buying sleeves. But I wish I had because now I'll probably spend a great chunk of money just to buy sleeves for all of my albums. I have over 500 albums now I'm pretty sure. I try to buy albums with plastic sleeves on them, sometimes I take plastic sleeves off albums from the store and just put them into albums I'm buying. lol But then I usually put the plastic sleeve onto a more important album, like say a Beatles album. I'm trying to have a sleeve on at least every album by The Beatles(I don't care yet to put them into later pressings, unless it's an import, bootleg, or have shrink but all my originals have a plastic sleeve.) The Beatles are almost the only band in my collection to have plasic sleeves, they seem the most important right now. All the records stores I've been to don't put plastic sleeves on every record, which I think is bullshit.I do have a few with the resealable flaps but those are only because some reissues come with them. And the one you gave me is on my UK copy of Abbey Road. lol
Sorry, I ment your concern that the top of the vinyl stays unprotected. If you would turn the vinyl to the right, you would have the hole on the right side and the top would be covered? Not sure if I explain myself clearly. Fun video though, thank you.
I know what you mean, but then I wouldn't be able to push the albums between each other and onto the shelves because the outer sleeve would keep coming off.
I know this video was posted some years ago and I haven't read all the remarks however PVC outer sleeves are definitely not recommended! PVC is susceptible to plastic migration, PVC at certain temperature gases. This gas will leech through the record sleeve and inner leaving a mottled or cloudy effect on the record. Unfortunately this is audible and impossible to remove! Probably people will say 'snake oil' however the kindest sleeve for your records are made of polythene. Go for 450 micron outers!
just side load with the heavier cover. Never understood why the top load idea took hold other than the worry that the lp might roll out of a side loaded plastic cover. But in my 40 years of collecting lps, I've never once had that happen to me. Thousands upon thousands of handling lps and none have rolled out the side. It's easier, quicker, protects and no problem with anything touching the tops.
didnt anyone here tried to take of the "glue tape" sticks into the flap of a Blake "style" sleeves ... ... its kind a tricky ... but once done ... you end up with a crystal clear sleeve with a flap !!! now you just tuck the flap to the inside of the sleeve ... and there you have it ... safe form the dust safe from the anoying flap bending when you try to put in your shelves and pretty easy to open and close ... i did it and if you nail to take of the "glue tape" .. .its almost the perfect sleeves ... but then .... i found the Vinyl Storage Solutions ... sleeves ... and everuthing got much more esier and expensive!!!! lol ... grrrr Grettings from Portugal
Give me convenience or give me death. I use the non flap and I don't miss the clarity of the cover because they're all the same so there's no clear ones to compare them too.
Yeah, but without the flap to seal the entire thing, the record is not completely safe. It would be mighty inconvenient to replace records if they were tainted by water, for example!
I tend to keep em in the bag I purchased em in. Old record store bags are cool, and makes I nice mystery when you re visit em, sorta like a Holdiay grab bag. I just pull any bag outta the old closet and wha La a new mystery listening session. Your too organized, no mystery or fun on each encounter with your records. And you save money on outer sleeves.
Look, the flap keeps all dust and contaminates out of the jacket and record. The flap makes more sense. So what if you have to peel back the flap...it only takes a few seconds. Our we that dam lazy in life or do you want to protect your jacket and lp from all the dust and contaminates. Here is an example: You got the ones where it is open across the top and some one goes and sprays air freshener in the air or something is spitting mist in the air...well it GOT ALL OVER THE TOP OF YOUR ALBUM JACKETS WITH THE TOPS OPEN. If you had them in the flap with the flap across the back top...it is protected...just wipe with a dry cloth. Does this make sense now?
It's not just a matter of being "lazy". If you have to open the flap and pull the jacket out when you want to play the record, this risks getting the jacket dirty. So it could get just as contaminated! No?
Hey Joe. Didn't I see you ruin a Stones album with a sticky flap? Huh?? I actually have been using 2 mil clear top loaders. It's just my preference. Good video Joe. Take care...
+Tim Allen - That happened because I left the sticky flap opened/exposed and lying flat-- and then placed a non-sleeved Stones album on top of it... But that was only ONE time, TIm - and once you do something like that, you never do it a second time! Besides, that Stones album was warped and only cost me one dollar; later on I found a second copy in even better condition!
I Use Both but Most of mine are the Non Sealed type . A funny thing a lot of you collectors might not remember is that back in the 60s the only bags you could get for your LPs were when you saved a bag from a New record that had the poly type sleeves rather than shrink wrap. In other words to have any number of Bags for your collection was Rare as they were hard to find. in 1969 I made a trade with a fellow collector in which I got 100 plastic LP Sleeves which was a huge amount in those days as they were very hard to get , but what I regret now is that I traded an Autographed Signed Gene Vincent LP for these a good deal at the time but now you can buy 100 sleeves for far less than an Autographed Gene Vincent LP would Cost You , So it wasnt really that Great of a Trade . I didnt Know Gene would Die in 1971.
rukusband - That was a little before my time. It was around 1977 where I first became aware of the clear plastic outer sleeves, and in those days they were still hard to get in large quantities.. they would be over-sized and often had writing on them to catalogue the record, and it would say PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE RECORD FROM BAG.
The really clear type you should never use as they will in time expose LP covers to moisture. Stick to the thick cloudy looking sleeves as they offer the best protection overall. The only minus is the top being open. BUT stay away from the clear sleeves, yes they look fancy, but they WILL cause damage down the road. I have over fifty years experience collecting and I would never use the clear type. I heard of one man who placed over a hundred thousand dollars worth of LPs in the clear plastic sleeves and they all ended up with mould. He ended up suing for damages. How he went I don't know? PS: The cloudy sleeves also helps protect the LP covers a bit more against ultraviolet light.
another way is to place the record (with a good inner sleeve - rice paper with inner paper protector) outside of the back of the album cover into the flapped outer plastic sleeve. when removing the record to play you never have to touch or remove the album cover again!
p.s. i like the flap at the top. the added bonus to storing this way is you will never have to worry about splitting the album cover. ive seen hardcore collecters with extremely rare and valuable records actually place the rice paper sleeved record into a blank cover (black is nice) and placing that against the back of the album cover into a top flapped outer sleeve!! archival all the way!!! i actually purchased 3 very rare, very mint albums that were from a private collection that were packaged this way. serious business!
Alan Senzaki - I do think that keeping the record outside the clear sleeve is a great idea for never having to touch or remove the album jacket; but I don't feel comfortable having the record so exposed like this, fearing it could get damaged. The cardboard jacket protects the record. So I am always conflicted about this! So many different methods and ways to keep our records! .. So then you personally prefer the re-sealable flaps, right? I now keep the opening at the top so the records can slide easily onto the shelves without the flaps getting crunched.
¨Top loading sleeves¨? I actually turn them on their side where I can easily remove the record. On the sleeves with the sticky strip I load the records on the top. (Reading through the comments, I see you now put the flap at the top, or you did when you made the comment.) I also only use the resealable sleeves on the records I value most.
Half MT - How do you place the records alongside each other on a shelf when the top loaders are turned on their side? Don't the covers slide off? I value all the records personally, so I treat them all the same.
Yes, they do tend to slide off a little. I´ve pretty much always had my records stored on a bookshelf, but one of these years I´ll build drawers where I can flip through them easily. Then it won´t be an issue. Since most of my records I purchased for $1 over the years, a lot of the covers are not worth protecting with resealable bags. At that price I only worry about the condition of the record itself.
I would disagree with the statement that the whole point of an outer sleeve is to prevent you from having to touch the cover. For me the basic function of an outer sleeve is to prevent wear and friction between the Lps cardboard covers (and ring wear), and it protects the bottom seams as it slides on and off a shelf...Touching album covers is not going to do any harm assuming you keep your hands clean...
I understand. I prefer the flap on the top too. But like I said, to play the record with the flap on top, you then have to take the jacket out of the clear sleeve - and that likewise subjects the jacket to exposure and possible damage/dirt/water/dust/whatever.
Joe, i have been collecting vinyl since 06 and I've tried so many. I like the idea of the Blake sleeves but I can't do them because I'm always so afraid in the very meticulous process of putting the records back in them that I'm gonna drop the record itself.
Sebastian - Happened to me only once with the flap adhesive. Never gonna happen again, now I'm always extra-careful. Always best to have albums in protective outer sleeves, be they flap or open.
Don't use dummy albums, you can sell them to someone who may like them. Instead, place one of those cardboard fillers that come in with your purchased lp's in a lp mailer box.
Simple--those who don't like the resealable sleeves are just lazy--and to answer their objections: put it on right and you won't have a major problem. And for those who complain the stickiness wears out: have you ever heard of a glue stick??? One swipe and they're as good as new.
Haha I've gone for the cloudy style, but now you have me arguing with myself! Great vid.
My Beatle mono box has the flap bags, but I think I prefer the heavy plastic ones, just because they are a little bit more durable and really quick to store. For me if I want to enjoy the album, I want to fully take it out of the bag and go through the album, liner notes, gatefold whatever as I listen to get that full experience of that album. Sometimes, and I don't know if it is a bit OCD or not, but if I have the flap bag I might double bag it with the other heavy duty one too. Now you have the best of both worlds on protection. Because the heavier one is slightly bigger than the album while the flap bag is form fitting. At any rate I do the same and protect the albums as soon as I get them.
Makes sense. My albums are not on a shelf like yours (I have them standing up front to back) so the side loading works great for me.
For me, the non-sealing Blake is the one to go.
I think double bagging is the way to go. Thanks for the suggestion! For some reason that never even dawned on me.
Innocent Smith - I still haven't done that yet, though I've considered it.
I love the "blake sleeves" with flap. not very handy to handle the records, but they are well protected (also against dust) and the look is awesome. I load them with the spine of the record to the flap side, so the spines are perfectly visible. Like this, the shelfed records look as if there where no sleeve at all, love it!
I used to use 3 mil and 5 mil sleeves but I now use 2.5 sleeves with flaps. I use 12 11/16 x 12 3/8 there other sizes but I like these best.
I use the 3mm. They are sturdier and don't rip easy. I've tried the thinner ones and, I threw a lot away, because they split and rip.
Interesting question. I happened to come across your video on the same day that I was thinking about how I want to bag my collection. Since my collection is quite a bit smaller than yours, I'm using milk crates rather than shelving, since I like to flip through the covers rather than read the spines. For that reason, the clearer bags with the flap will mostly be my play. But ask me again once my collection is the same size as yours! Haha. Great video, Joe, as always.
OCD! Get a life people
I put my records in the same way as you, almost! but with the spine of the record cover up against the flap so you can read what record it is in the rack without having to take it out. Here in the U.K. I use the very strong but still crystal clear 75 micron Blake type sealable sleeves for my 5 & 7 mm thick LP records and the standard 40-50 micron for the 3 mm LP Records. They all fit nice and snug. I had real issues with the 30 micron sleeves, they are too thin and split far too easily, 30 microns is just not strong enough. The misty polythene sleeves are stronger still but I agree with you they don’t show off your treasured first editions half as well! Thumbs up to you.
I use the 2.5 mil outer sleeves with no flap. I buy them from Sleeve City and they are crystal clear. No clouding
8:33 is why I don't use flaps. LOL I really don't like the noisy process of pealing those open and risk getting damage to the sleeve if it comes in contact with the sticky strip.
To your point: Gotta have the sleeves. Due to money and resources, 50% of my collection is in clear bags 40% cloudy bags and 10% no sleeves.
I love the clear bags (blake sleeves) with no flap, open from the right side. I am beginning to switch to open top because the plastic bunches up when placing them on the shelf. I haven't purchased bags with the flaps but to your point about dust and moisture, I have a few I acquired and I use those for my most valuable records. Flap on top.
Cheers!
please help me. shrink wrap? yes or no?
I use thicker sleeves for gatefolds and clear ones (without the flap) for regular covers.
Do the flaps unstick after taking the record out so many times? I'd like to see a video of you submerging records in water to see whether or not the sleeves protect the covers from water damage. I want to be sure my vinyl is 100% protected in case of a flood.
Like the video JOE. How about sliding the LP in sideways in cloudy bag? But myself I use cloudy bag like you do down from the top.
Great video ! I have the same dilemma as you do. While I prefer the protection of the heavier sleeves, they are too cloudy. I don't care for the sleeves with the adhesive : a couple of " accidents " have turned me against those. My friend at the local used record store recently turned me on to a clear sleeve similar to those, but without the fold over adhesive. While they are not as strong as the heavier poly sleeves, I find they work quite well, if not abused. Guess that's what I'm sticking with, till something better comes along.
I use the bags with the flaps that seal. For years I used the top loading sleeves that your showed in the beginning of the video. However, I found those type of sleeves get scuffed and dirty much easier that the resealing sleeves. Just my preference. Both work to keep your records clean.
I have four questions for you. #1 where can I purchase the clear vinyl bags with the adhesive flap? #2 in your experience when you use this type of bag does the adhesive wear off when frequently opened and closed? #3 when a record is left on the shelf a long time does the adhesive become attached to the plastic too strongly and rip the bag when attempting to open? #4 does the adhesive ever accidentally stick onto the record sleeve or the record itself and leave behind a sticky residue?
+Brett Wright 1) Bags Ulimited (online). 2) No, the adhesive has never worn off, but I imagine you would have to open the flap many many times before that happens - and I haven't played any one record enough times yet. But even if it came off after 50 or so openings, you can just replace it with a fresh one. 3) No.. 4) No .. but one time I had an open sticky flap sleeve lying down with the sticky flap openly exposed, and I accidentally placed the front cover of a bare second LP on top of it, and it damaged that second cover.. but that kind of mistake you don't make a second time .. just be sure to re-seal the flap as soon as you take out the record (or else don't place an unprotected second cover right on top of an opened sticky flap!).
I really want resealable ones for my vinyls but I can't seem to find a good maker. Any suggestions on what a good one is? Like brand name or something to help me track them down? I found some on Amazon but the reviews say they are too tight on double LPs and some don't even fit at all.
Bags Unlimited, those are the brand I use... no problems.
I side-load my jacket into a thick cloudy outer, record in a Mofi inner, into my kallax cube. Then, pop an album front of the cube (and a sleeved mailer cardboard on their tops) to block the exposed sides from dust.
I use the thick one...I wont be changing them anytime soon...I would need a million new sleeves..I'm not that picky as long as the record is protected..
Great comparison. What about albums (or double albums!) with gatefold covers ?
+seand67 - They fit in both types of sleeves.
Hey Mr Mayo. Is there a way I can send you a pick of a unique inner sleeve from Yellow Submarine? I’d like to get your thoughts on this. Thx. Enjoyed your live feed last night, btw.
I use the clear "blake sleeve" with no flaps... but I side load. Does anyone else do that?
I feel that I can get the record in and out of the sleeve w/o having to take the sleeve out of the plastic at all. My other concern is that dust settles from the top down. If my openings were up, even on the shelf, dust would settle down in there. Thoughts?
+Greg Boyd - Yes, other people do side load -- but I don't like doing that with the no flap sleeves. I too am concerned with dust getting down in the top, which is the reason I prefer the flaps. No dust, water, anything with the flaps.
Nothing beats Blake Sleeves with the sealed Flap IMO... Looks Amazing, protects well, Can Top Load or side Load, and are not any more expensive than your normal sleeve.
+Haze Anatomy - I agree with all those things!
Joe, have you tried the no flap Blake sleeves? They're all I use. Crystal clear and no sticky annoyance. There are some UA-cam vids that show them. Just search "Blake no flap sleeves"
I use the Blake ones . Thankyou for interesting explanation
Joe Morgan - Thanks for watching and commenting.
Hello 😀 if you top load it and take out the LP and put that in back of the jacket then you don't get the problem with the flap...
Hello Joe, I use the Blake sleeves sealable flaps. I just think they look better, however I use the poly sleeves for gatefolds and double albums as the Blake sleeves aren't big enough, although I think you can get larger sealable flap sleeves. I get what you say about the flap getting damaged as I have had the same problem because I store my records like you. But bottom line, the sealable flap sleeves protect the records better.....and they just look better, so I prefer those. Great video as always Joe.......Paul
+Paul Sweeney - Hey Paul.. there are some of the flap sleeves which will fir the gatefolds and double LPs, available online from Bags Unlimited.
Very interesting topic! I've always wondered what's the best sleeve to use. Myself, I use the first kind you showed (the non-sealable ones), only instead of loading them from the top, I load them from the side. Now, a lot of collectors will tell you that that's no good because the side where the record comes out is exposed, BUT you have the INNER sleeve doing its job and protecting the LP from dust (and other things deemed evil to vinyl) lol! AND, like you said toward the end, this way here you can just pull the record out without having to touch the actual cover. It's all a matter of opinion and preference really, there's no "right" sleeve nor is there a "wrong"' sleeve, it's really what you like the best... Cheers! -Jex
+CineBrosSupreme -How do you store the records this way? Do you put them on shelves, and does the outer sleeve come off when trying to pull records in and out from between each other?
+MeanMr Mayo I store them on shelves much like yours in the background there, and for the most part I don't have issues with the outer sleeves coming off, I mean it happens on occasion, but over all it's been working out for me, lol! :)
Good video - a traumatic subject for me. I wrecked the sleeve of a 1969 Fairport Convention lp which was in a pile with a sticky flap that got loose or I forgot to close it fully. The adhesive took off a whole strip of the photo on the lp sleeve from top to bottom...disaster.
Found a company that makes the clear with flap but not sticky - the flap just folds in
escazon1, Please share the name of that company. I have not purchased sleeves with sticky flaps for precisely the reason you detailed. I have a few lp's that came in these bags, and they drive me nuts. So, where do you get such bags without the glue?
I ALWAYS use the Japanese resealable outer sleeves. Trust me, mine have been put to the test because I live in a house of smokers! UGH! Fortunately, my room sits near the back of the house so I barely get any of the smoke, but when I wipe my sleeves with a small amount of Windex all purpose cleaner (with vinegar), there's still a very faint residue sometimes. However there seems to be NO TRACE at all on the jackets. Some of my sleeves are over 10 years old and they're STILL going strong!
Are those clear top fold sleeves Japanese ones I see on eBay ?
Love this video! Since my last comment I went out and replaced all my "bag" sleeves with the adhesive flap sleeves and it only cost me $85.00! It was worth it though. I have a secure feeling knowing that my records are protected on all sides and the covers look great with the clear sleeves. I side loaded the records so I can remove them without taking the sleeve off which protects them even more from fingerprints, etc. and the adhesive never comes in contact with the record or the cover. They take a little more effort to use but in my opinion it's worth it. Oh and I kind of like the sound that's made when opening the adhesive flap. Weird I know.
+Brett Wright -- Since making this video I have made one change. I now have the flap at the TOP of the LP. I have done this so they slide in and out of the shelves much easier, without the flap getting mangled. The down side though is I must remove the bag when I listen to the album, and risk the fingerprints. But nothing is perfect!
+MeanMr Mayo Good move. Now if by chance the record is down low and there's a spill, no liquid can enter the bag. I know this really don't matter to you as you store your records in a shelf. but for the person who may live in a basement and be subject to floods it's best as you said nothing is perfect.
Tony C. Yes! Dampness is the enemy because vinyl records contain sugar, and mold loves to grow on them.
I would put the sealable ones with the flap on the top to the back not the mouth of the jacket. Water will get in the resealable ones with the flat at the spine or mouth of the jacket. Doing it the way I said will protect the whole jacket unless you got a couple feet of water while the jackets are on the bottom. The resealable ones with the flap at the top-back of the jacket should not bend at the flap.
Would like to see a video containing the pros and cons when comparing different shelf systems. For instance "Kallax" v/s the new shelf system from IKEA - "Eket". Also would be interested in getting info if 12" with "Blake Sleeves" with flap will fit into this new "Eket" system, as these have the inner dimension of 32 cm. So if anyone have stored their records in the "Eket" system. Then please post a video of your experiences. WIth and without outer plastic sleeves, how it works with Box-Sets etc... Would be very helpful. Thanks!
Great videos by the way MeanMrMayo! Cheers...
Retep Folo - I'm sorry but I'm unfamiliar with the new "Eket" shelf system by IKEA. Thanks for your interest, and for watching my videos.
My vinyl collection has been boxed up for over 20 years. I am getting ready to start the daunting process of going through every box to re-sleeve all the albums. My goal, once I finish my 'music room' is to store all my albums on display shelf cases. Before my collection (over 3500 albums) was boxed up, a large number of them were placed in the old plastic sleeves, which probably are no longer even safe to use since the technology has improved, sleeves are now thicker and acid free. Pros & cons were pointed out, but for me, I will probably just top load all the records and keep something light on top so dust does not creep in from the exposed top of the plastic sleeve. I just bought my first bag of outer sleeves from Big Fudge, with the 3mm thickness. What I like about these is that they can hold gatefold albums as well as double records. Some plastic sleeves are too thin for thicker album covers, so this is something you need to be aware of...
i know I am kinda off topic but do anyone know of a good site to watch new series online ?
@Finnegan Cassius flixportal :D
@Jaden Roy Thanks, signed up and it seems like a nice service :) I really appreciate it!!
@Finnegan Cassius no problem =)
The advantages of the thicker ones is that they sell them for gatefold covers which is cool, you can grab the record and open it, whereas no one has come up with a similar one for the clearer sleeves, and most of them can't store the newer, thicker albums, let alone double or triple albums.
Another drawback of the new ones is that they break and split open on the sides so easily so often, I have to seal them again with tape and that looks horrendous and degrade over time.. The Music On Vinyl sleeves are a pain, they split open even when unused.
Someone must come up with better designed and manufactured transparent sleeves.
Thanks for responding to my message joe . Also liked you talking about that strange guy you bought that revolver sealed edition from sixtees surprised shop let him return do you think he kept inner bag . And think its cool the way you collect. Wish I had some of the finds you get in America I have a son at Connecticut uni started a four year course hoping he can find me things lol he likes vinyl like his dad I’m from Northern Ireland but live in Coventry not good area for collecting and record fairs are rip off prices same people same records that never sell and they are snobby about older vinyl against newer vinyl cheers joe have a great evening
Joe Morgan - thanks again, and you too.
I seen records that touch the sticky part and it very hard to get the sticky glue off the vinyl.
I have found clear none sticky sleeves which solved the cloudy problem. These clear sleeves do not make the crackle noise and do not tear like some of the seal ones do. ( from acoustic sounds for cleat open non crackle sounding sleeves )
sam8911sk - Yes, but the non-sticky ones are open on one side. So some dust or dirt can still get into the cover.
True but I have the sleeve opening on the top when I shelve them and put record upright ( opening of record turn to close side ). I just do not like the sticky part ( record and cover could be damage ).
As always you bring up some of the best topics and love the record store videos ( you have a very nice local store ).
I double bag my records, exactly as you showed in the last part of this video. Using a clear sealable sleeve inside a thicker open sleeve. It adds extra protection using two sleeves and i`ve never had any problem storing or removing records from two sleeves.
+Acidhouse house -- Excellent.. but, do you find that the records get too thick and take up too much extra room on the shelves?
+MeanMr Mayo Obviously using two sleeves takes up slightly more room but i`m fortunate in that i have a large music room and plenty of Ikea Expedit units still to be filled. I`m a bit fanatical about protecting my collection. I buy lots of dance 12"s and a lot of them come in generic plain card dj sleeves and even those i store in two outer sleeves. Not so much to protect the sleeve but to protect the vinyl from dust / static. And every record is housed in polylined inner sleeves to avoid scratching when removing the vinyl. I can`t believe how many collectors here on UA-cam house their vinyl in cheap inner sleeves. Those things ruin vinyl.
Have to disagree with the last part ... I have no problem with the paper inner sleeves... there are so many records that have been housed in paper sleeves for decades, and as long as the vinyl was cared for and returned to the sleeve, they play great. I don't see how any of the vinyl got 'ruined'. I think you have just given me an idea for a new video! :)
+MeanMr Mayo When you remove and insert vinyl into a standard paper sleeve that isn`t polylined the friction between the vinyl and the sleeve can create small scratch marks on the vinyl. Polylined sleeves dont grip the vinyl like standard paper sleeves and polylined sleeves create no friction. If you`re happy with standard sleeves that`s cool but i wouldn`t house any of my vinyl in those sleeves.
Yes, I'm sure the polylined sleeves are more ideal; I'm just saying that records have been coming safely in and out of paper sleeves for many decades and -- as long as everything is done carefully -- the records always sound like new.
Hi Joe, great question. I just use the sleeves without the flaps. I'm terrified of the stickiness on the fold-over flap sticking to the outer sleeve, or heaven forbid, sticking to the vinyl if I set a record down on a sleeve. I'm clumsy, and the sticky part of those sleeves irritates me.
Also irritating: that Velcro sound when you open those sleeves. Ack!
;-) Tom
+High Rant District - Well, Tom, it sounds like those flap sleeves are not for you! The noise alone can make you insane!
I package the jackets without the record in a sealed flap bag, then put the records in a separate sleeve and then package the jacket housed in the flap bag and the records housed in the separate sleeve and put them both in a flapless bag. That way you never have to handle the jacket again and dust can't get in and you don't have the problem of the flaps getting all messed up. I package all my albums and 45s this way and my Elvis collection is quite large at around 300+ albums. This system works quite well for me. Just thought I would share.
I use a microfiber cloth to touch the records or CDs.
What brand is the clear resealable ones? I prefer the clear ones.
Bags Unlimited
Hi, Joe.
I use both. My LPs that are of higher value/quality are put in blake sleeves (w/flaps), right-hand loaded, like you. It allows you to leave the jacket in the sleeve and just remove the disc to play. I use the heavier sleeves for cheaper LPs AND all the LPs on the bottom cubbies of my shelf. My collection is in a basement room, so if there is ever a flood, the LPs on the bottom are top-loaded in the heavier sleeve. Cheers, Jeff
These Blake sleeves, do they fit newly released vinyls? Your comment helped me track down a resealable cover with good reviews finally but there's a review that says it doesn't fit new releases, just older vinyls. I'm 23 so all I have are newer releases haha any insight would be awesome
There are single and double sizes. "New releases" aren't a standard size. The double LP sleeve should accommodate.
Definitely the clear with flap. Then I cut along the lip to open it up side-load. Done!
Protection and presentation is what it’s all about. I’ve changed most of my records to Blake Sleeves and I will never go back. As far as loading is concerned, the sleeves are designed to be put in from the side so that when the flap is folded over there is no seem to block the album info. I also don’t like to store the record outside the sleeve; that’s the purpose of the sleeve in the first place. The reason so many covers had ring wear was because we didn’t use protective sleeves back in the day. Now, on the flip side, I can see using the new sleeves that are coming out of Canada that utilize a separate section for the record and a flap for the cover. Melinda Murphy did a nice video showing these and Frank from Channel 33 RPM had the fellow that designed these as a guest on a video a few months back. I would think that for a guy that seeks out records in shrink you would want the best protection. You can’t beat the way these sleeves make our records look. Thanks for the always great videos.
Christopher - A major problem with the re-sealable sleeves opening from the side is they always get crunched up when pulling them out and then in again from the record cabinet. For records which have the shrink on them I am content to place them in the regular "top loading" non-resealable type. I would like to watch the videos you've suggested about the Canada sleeves.
I’ve had a few flaps get bent but the cost is relatively inexpensive and it doesn’t bother me. I’m just careful when I slide them in. There was one viewer that prefers the 5mil Sleeve City. I used these before I switched to the genuine Blake Sleeve and there is no comparison. The Sleeve City do get milky after awhile and the Blake’s don’t. To each his own☺️👌
Hey Joe, good point, what outer sleeves should we use? Personally I prefer to use the ones without the flaps, however I think they probably offer more protection, so I will try and get some for my more expensive records, (Stones, Beatles, Bob Dylan, etc...) However, I would like to ask where you recommend picking them up. Is there a website where you can find them at a good price? Because when I see them, they're normally quite pricey! Anyway, good video, enjoyed watching. ;)
+VinylBlog1965 This is where is purchase mine. After a lot of research I found these to be the best:www.clearbags.com/bags/album/12-5-8-x-12-5-8-crystal-clear-album-cover-no-flap-100-pieces-blp1nf.html
I also get my inner sleeves from here: www.sleevecityusa.com/Polylined-Paper-Record-Sleeves-50-Pack-p/12inpolylined.htm
Hope this helps!
+Slowhanfan Yeah, thanks very much man. I'll be sure to check it out. ;)
It's no contest for me - I go with the clear bags with sealable flap. I like that the album fits snug, and even older album covers with dull finishes get a new glossy look. Seems like every used album I buy has one of those thick, dull, cloudy bag. I either tell the clerk they can keep, or I just toss it when I get home.
All my albums get sealed in a new clear bag. The record itself goes in a new polylined sleeve, and the record is kept outside of the cover - not in. If the album came with a special sleeve (with photo/artwork, or lyrics) it's preserved inside the album. If it's just paper - it gets tossed.
Record stores put the albums for sale in the cheapest sleeves they can find. Most are not going to spend the money on better sleeves but leave it up to the end user to do themselves.
I use the BCW 2 mil polypropylene , they are very thin and very shiny, they are light weight and make even worn LPs look new, the thicker 4 mil wear and make nice LPs look like crap
I am very picky as are you,and I really think you should at least try these.
I replaced all my thicker bags with these and actually had fun doing it and I have lots of records
where do you get the sealable clearcovers from
Bags Unlimited
Why don't you side load the first sleeves to better keep dust out and top load the flapped sleeves to keep them from catching in your shelves?
tednbud9999 - It's been awhile since I made this video, but these days I do have the flaps at the top when using the re-sealable flapped sleeves. Only bad thing about that is, now I have to take the jacket out of the sleeve every time I want to play the record.
Mean Mr. Mayo... you got an email address we can reach you at? Got some questions regarding the Capitol Records CD reissues from 04-06.
There are two types of sleeves, polypropylene (clear) and polyurethane (cloudy).
I recently bought 200 polypropylene sleeves and tossed out all my polyurethane
sleeves. They are too cloudy and they don't last very long. It's a long overdue up-
grade.
The standard size of a single album is 12.5 x12.75. The sleeves I purchased were
12.75 x 13" so they were not an exact fit. I had enough room in each sleeve for two
albums. I have two copies of a lot of albums so it worked out okay. I only wish they
made and outer sleeve for an exact fit (12.5 ×12.75). One size fits all? I beg to differ!
Me too.
I've been using the resealable for years now, but I've just recently had this dilemma too. I love the clarity of flaps but it is very much of a hassle to me recently.
But think I might change the way the jacket is in the sleeve.
Well... What about the cloudy ones open on the side? That's the way i keep my collection. Greetings from Sweden!
+guely55 - Hello, and thanks for the comment. I would not do the records that way because the bag would keep sliding off as I tried to put them between each other on my shelves.
+MeanMr Mayo Thats' true! I'm just too lazy and careful to touch them everytime I wanna give them a spin . They are perfect for a Ikea trunk I have . Too bad they are discontinued.
Fixing to order and still can't decide !!!
You need both. Use the cloudy sleeves for the go to records for your listening pleasure and the shiny resealable ones strictly for collector items.
Doesn't work for me because I like uniformity! :)
So why not top load the clear sleeve so the flap points down? Then putting them in and out of the shelf will not pull the flap back. By the way, while the clear sleeves look a lot better, the plastic seems to crack easier than the cloudy ones.
+margaretsville - Well, if you watched the whole video you'd see that I don't want to have to take the clear sleeve OFF and touch the jacket -- which I'd have to do if the flap was on bottom (or top). .. I meant to mention in the video that I don't see the thinner clear sleeves cracking or splitting, unless they're handled too roughly. (And even if they DO crack or split, a new stock replacement can be substituted).
Also, when you mention having to take the record all the way out when the flap is positioned on top--I like to store my records in the inner sleeve behind the jacket. So it's not stored inside the jacket. I was given a tip on preventing seam wear/splitting on the record jackets by using this method. And you never have to take the jacket all the way out this way. To each their own and it's all personal preference. Just sharing!
+jshdllrd - It's all good-- Whatever seems to work is fine. Personally, I never see jacket seams in danger of splitting unless they're much older LPs, like from the '50s (and some '60s). I'm always hesitant to place a record outside the jacket because I feel it's dangerous to have the record more exposed like that (and the jacket is for the disc's protection).
+MeanMr Mayo that's a good point also. You really should order a small pack of the no flap Blake sleeves to try out. I think you would be pleased.
+MeanMr Mayo I actually use generic thin white cardboard jackets and put the record inside those (with a non-static inner sleeve), and put that behind the empty album cover. Problem is, you can't see the back of the album. There is no perfect method. I'm always trying new ones. It can drive you nuts!!
Is it weird if only 20% of my collection has a Plastic sleeve in general? lolI never got into buying sleeves. But I wish I had because now I'll probably spend a great chunk of money just to buy sleeves for all of my albums. I have over 500 albums now I'm pretty sure. I try to buy albums with plastic sleeves on them, sometimes I take plastic sleeves off albums from the store and just put them into albums I'm buying. lol But then I usually put the plastic sleeve onto a more important album, like say a Beatles album. I'm trying to have a sleeve on at least every album by The Beatles(I don't care yet to put them into later pressings, unless it's an import, bootleg, or have shrink but all my originals have a plastic sleeve.) The Beatles are almost the only band in my collection to have plasic sleeves, they seem the most important right now. All the records stores I've been to don't put plastic sleeves on every record, which I think is bullshit.I do have a few with the resealable flaps but those are only because some reissues come with them. And the one you gave me is on my UK copy of Abbey Road. lol
Why don't you put the vinyl to the sleeve from the side so your record is protected from the top?
Not sure exactly what you're suggesting. You mean with the "open" version of the outer sleeve, just put the opening at the open side of the cover?
Sorry, I ment your concern that the top of the vinyl stays unprotected. If you would turn the vinyl to the right, you would have the hole on the right side and the top would be covered? Not sure if I explain myself clearly. Fun video though, thank you.
I know what you mean, but then I wouldn't be able to push the albums between each other and onto the shelves because the outer sleeve would keep coming off.
When you pull the lp out at the flat of the sleeve, i saw the flap scraping across the record... This will scratch your lp up.
I do not see why you have to pull the cover out?? I never do that.
I know this video was posted some years ago and I haven't read all the remarks however PVC outer sleeves are definitely not recommended! PVC is susceptible to plastic migration, PVC at certain temperature gases. This gas will leech through the record sleeve and inner leaving a mottled or cloudy effect on the record. Unfortunately this is audible and impossible to remove! Probably people will say 'snake oil' however the kindest sleeve for your records are made of polythene. Go for 450 micron outers!
just side load with the heavier cover. Never understood why the top load idea took hold other than the worry that the lp might roll out of a side loaded plastic cover. But in my 40 years of collecting lps, I've never once had that happen to me. Thousands upon thousands of handling lps and none have rolled out the side. It's easier, quicker, protects and no problem with anything touching the tops.
didnt anyone here tried to take of the "glue tape" sticks into the flap of a Blake "style" sleeves ...
... its kind a tricky ...
but once done ...
you end up with a crystal clear sleeve with a flap !!!
now you just tuck the flap to the inside of the sleeve ... and there you have it ...
safe form the dust
safe from the anoying flap bending when you try to put in your shelves
and pretty easy to open and close ...
i did it and if you nail to take of the "glue tape" .. .its almost the perfect sleeves ...
but then ....
i found the Vinyl Storage Solutions ... sleeves ...
and everuthing got much more esier and expensive!!!!
lol ... grrrr
Grettings from Portugal
Give me convenience or give me death.
I use the non flap and I don't miss the clarity of the cover because they're all the same so there's no clear ones to compare them too.
Yeah, but without the flap to seal the entire thing, the record is not completely safe. It would be mighty inconvenient to replace records if they were tainted by water, for example!
I know what you mean, but unless my house floods water doesn't get anywhere near my records anyway.
My philosophy is what ever works best for you.
I tend to keep em in the bag I purchased em in. Old record store bags are cool, and makes I nice mystery when you re visit em, sorta like a Holdiay grab bag. I just pull any bag outta the old closet and wha La a new mystery listening session. Your too organized, no mystery or fun on each encounter with your records. And you save money on outer sleeves.
Sometimes when putting an album into the covers with flaps, the side with the glue can stick to the album cover.😱
Mark O Rourke - That happened to me just once. Since then I have learned to just be careful.
Look, the flap keeps all dust and contaminates out of the jacket and record. The flap makes more sense. So what if you have to peel back the flap...it only takes a few seconds. Our we that dam lazy in life or do you want to protect your jacket and lp from all the dust and contaminates. Here is an example: You got the ones where it is open across the top and some one goes and sprays air freshener in the air or something is spitting mist in the air...well it GOT ALL OVER THE TOP OF YOUR ALBUM JACKETS WITH THE TOPS OPEN. If you had them in the flap with the flap across the back top...it is protected...just wipe with a dry cloth. Does this make sense now?
It's not just a matter of being "lazy". If you have to open the flap and pull the jacket out when you want to play the record, this risks getting the jacket dirty. So it could get just as contaminated! No?
Hey Joe. Didn't I see you ruin a Stones album with a sticky flap? Huh?? I actually have been using 2 mil clear top loaders. It's just my preference. Good video Joe. Take care...
+Tim Allen - That happened because I left the sticky flap opened/exposed and lying flat-- and then placed a non-sleeved Stones album on top of it... But that was only ONE time, TIm - and once you do something like that, you never do it a second time! Besides, that Stones album was warped and only cost me one dollar; later on I found a second copy in even better condition!
I Use Both but Most of mine are the Non Sealed type . A funny thing a lot of you collectors might not remember is that back in the 60s the only bags you could get for your LPs were when you saved a bag from a New record that had the poly type sleeves rather than shrink wrap. In other words to have any number of Bags for your collection was Rare as they were hard to find. in 1969 I made a trade with a fellow collector in which I got 100 plastic LP Sleeves which was a huge amount in those days as they were very hard to get , but what I regret now is that I traded an Autographed Signed Gene Vincent LP for these a good deal at the time but now you can buy 100 sleeves for far less than an Autographed Gene Vincent LP would Cost You , So it wasnt really that Great of a Trade . I didnt Know Gene would Die in 1971.
rukusband - That was a little before my time. It was around 1977 where I first became aware of the clear plastic outer sleeves, and in those days they were still hard to get in large quantities.. they would be over-sized and often had writing on them to catalogue the record, and it would say PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE RECORD FROM BAG.
The really clear type you should never use as they will in time expose LP covers to moisture. Stick to the thick cloudy looking sleeves as they offer the best protection overall. The only minus is the top being open. BUT stay away from the clear sleeves, yes they look fancy, but they WILL cause damage down the road. I have over fifty years experience collecting and I would never use the clear type.
I heard of one man who placed over a hundred thousand dollars worth of LPs in the clear plastic sleeves and they all ended up with mould. He ended up suing for damages. How he went I don't know?
PS: The cloudy sleeves also helps protect the LP covers a bit more against ultraviolet light.
Thanks for your input.
another way is to place the record (with a good inner sleeve - rice paper with inner paper protector) outside of the back of the album cover into the flapped outer plastic sleeve. when removing the record to play you never have to touch or remove the album cover again!
p.s. i like the flap at the top. the added bonus to storing this way is you will never have to worry about splitting the album cover. ive seen hardcore collecters with extremely rare and valuable records actually place the rice paper sleeved record into a blank cover (black is nice) and placing that against the back of the album cover into a top flapped outer sleeve!! archival all the way!!! i actually purchased 3 very rare, very mint albums that were from a private collection that were packaged this way. serious business!
Alan Senzaki - I do think that keeping the record outside the clear sleeve is a great idea for never having to touch or remove the album jacket; but I don't feel comfortable having the record so exposed like this, fearing it could get damaged. The cardboard jacket protects the record. So I am always conflicted about this! So many different methods and ways to keep our records! .. So then you personally prefer the re-sealable flaps, right? I now keep the opening at the top so the records can slide easily onto the shelves without the flaps getting crunched.
¨Top loading sleeves¨? I actually turn them on their side where I can easily remove the record. On the sleeves with the sticky strip I load the records on the top. (Reading through the comments, I see you now put the flap at the top, or you did when you made the comment.) I also only use the resealable sleeves on the records I value most.
Half MT - How do you place the records alongside each other on a shelf when the top loaders are turned on their side? Don't the covers slide off? I value all the records personally, so I treat them all the same.
Yes, they do tend to slide off a little. I´ve pretty much always had my records stored on a bookshelf, but one of these years I´ll build drawers where I can flip through them easily. Then it won´t be an issue. Since most of my records I purchased for $1 over the years, a lot of the covers are not worth protecting with resealable bags. At that price I only worry about the condition of the record itself.
I would disagree with the statement that the whole point of an outer sleeve is to prevent you from having to touch the cover. For me the basic function of an outer sleeve is to prevent wear and friction between the Lps cardboard covers (and ring wear), and it protects the bottom seams as it slides on and off a shelf...Touching album covers is not going to do any harm assuming you keep your hands clean...
Adam.. it protects the cover from everything, including all that you said, obviously.
At 8:34 is kinda too over protective and lazy and like I said below...water can enter with the the flap on the mouth or spine side.
I understand. I prefer the flap on the top too. But like I said, to play the record with the flap on top, you then have to take the jacket out of the clear sleeve - and that likewise subjects the jacket to exposure and possible damage/dirt/water/dust/whatever.
There is a new company that makes the "flap type" with clear plastic...but no flap! So its the best of both worlds
Steven Espanola - Except that without a flap there is an opening on one side!
Whooaaaa magic bus!
Joe, i have been collecting vinyl since 06 and I've tried so many. I like the idea of the Blake sleeves but I can't do them because I'm always so afraid in the very meticulous process of putting the records back in them that I'm gonna drop the record itself.
I like NO flap, dust? no problem I don't use any shelf, I use storage boxes; the problem with flaps is the glue! accidents can happens with adhesives.
Sebastian - Happened to me only once with the flap adhesive. Never gonna happen again, now I'm always extra-careful. Always best to have albums in protective outer sleeves, be they flap or open.
Other problem of Blake sleeves with flap is the glue, over time glue stay in the flap, I have some pics, very nasty, I think I'll go for the non flap.
8:20 NOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Fuzzy?...you mean cloudy.
Don't use dummy albums, you can sell them to someone who may like them. Instead, place one of those cardboard fillers that come in with your purchased lp's in a lp mailer box.
"Vinyl storage solutions". Check them out. There's nothing better.
Who has time to play around with flaps? That's a failed idea.
Simple--those who don't like the resealable sleeves are just lazy--and to answer their objections: put it on right and you won't have a major problem. And for those who complain the stickiness wears out: have you ever heard of a glue stick??? One swipe and they're as good as new.