How to take care of your vinyl records in Dubai
Taking care of vinyl isn’t just maintenance—it’s also cures your ADHD and becomes your calming ritual, especially in a hot city like Dubai. A good record will outlive you if you don’t treat yourself right. Here’s how to keep your vinyl spinning smooth and sounding fresh, especially in Dubai:
1. Handle It Properly
No greasy fingers on the grooves. Hold your records by the edges or the center label—oils and dirt mess up the sound and wear down the vinyl. Had taouk sandwich for lunch? Better wash your hand before touching the vinyl.
2. Store ‘Em Cool In Dubai Heat
Keep them standing up – Stacking them flat = say bye bye to your collection. And don’t ever put your karak chai above them.
No heat, no sunlight, no moisture – Keep them away from direct sun light, your windows, your kitchen counter and your bathroom. If you live near the sea, beware of those salty air that comes into your condo. We all aware of how crazy the DEWA bill can be these days. But keeping a regulated, stable temperature will let you keep you fond musical memories.
Good shelving matters – crates, Amazon boxes, whatever—just keep them tight and upright. You know those yellow crates on the back of the karak bicycles in Satwa? We actually use them too.
3. Sleeve Up
Inner sleeves – Anti-static, poly-lined ones keep dust and scratches away.
Outer sleeves – Protect that album art from water spills and regret.
4. Clean Before You Spin
Brush it down first – A quick swipe with a carbon fiber brush before playing keeps dust out of your needle’s way.
Deep clean once in a while – Use an actual record cleaner, not tap water or some DIY vinegar nonsense. If you’re serious, get a record cleaning machine.
No fingers-on-the-groove – we said it one more time…
5. Get a Real Turntable
Cheap suitcase players are out. We will come back and list our a few of our favorite turntables and where to get them in Dubai. Meanwhile, we use Technics.
Stylus matters – If your needle is worn out, it’s grinding your vinyl to dust. DJ Corner in Barsha stocks them nicely and they are super friendly too.
6. Respect the Ritual
Playing vinyl isn’t just about music—it’s an experience you can share with yourself and others. Treat your records right, and they’ll keep giving you that warm, analog magic for years. At Electric Pawn Shop, Dubai’s original listening bar, we make sure that our vinyl is stored properly and will last a long time. Come join us to discover the vinyl listening experience.
