CD & DVD Storage Tips | National Storage Blog (2024)

CD & DVD Storage Tips | National Storage Blog (1)

In this digital age, the way we listen to music and watch movies tends to be drastically different from the way we used to even just 10 to 15 years ago. Today, many people find it more convenient to listen to music on a smartphone or through a computer, and video stores all now all but obsolete.

So, what do you do with that vast collection of CDs and DVDs that may be cluttering up shelves or taking up valuable storage space in the home? For those that are unwilling to part with their collections, whether because they intend to one day sell them, pass them on to family, or just plain enjoy having “hard copies” of their favorite entertainment, it’s important to come up with some sort of CD and DVD storage solutions.

Organizing CDs and DVDs for Storage

The first step in storing CDS and DVDs is to get them in some semblance of order. This can be as simple as getting the collection in alphabetical order, or sorting by genre and then alphabetically. Whatever works for the collector – there’s no wrong way to get organized. However, keep in mind that it should be easy to search and find that album or movie when it’s needed!

While you’re organizing your CDs and DVDs, take some time to weed out copies you no longer listen to or watch. A general rule is if something hasn’t been used in a year or two, it’s unlikely you’ll need or want it in the future. Unless, of course, it’s a classic that you just can’t bear to part with!

CD and DVD Storage Solutions for the Home

If you’re lucky enough to have room in the home for your CD and DVD collections, there are still a few innovative ways to display or store them.

For instance, some of the most popular CD and DVD storage solutions include options like DIY shelving units, which often come with adjustable shelving so they can be displayed not only in an organized fashion, but artistically, too. Or, if you need to store the collection out of sight, such as in a closet or the basem*nt, you can also consider purchasing specially-made DVD or CD storage boxes that are just the right size for the cases that can be easily stacked in a storage space. Another option is to remove them from the cases and utilize special binders for storage. The cases obviously take up the most space, so getting rid of them can definitely provide more space for the collection.

However, discarding the cases has some cons to keep in mind, too. If you intend to sell your CDs or DVDs one day, not having the original cases and artwork will affect the value. Plus, the cases are generally recommended to keep the CDs and DVDs from getting scratched or damaged.

Self Storage for Storing CDs and DVDs

Depending on the size of your collection, and whether or not you’re keeping everything in their original cases, renting a self storage unit presents a great option to keep all your CDs and DVDs safe. Just be sure to properly pack them in a sturdy, sealed box with plenty of packing material to keep them from getting damaged. Also, consider renting a climate controlled self storage unit for added protection from extreme heat or cold, which can warp the discs. As always, label the boxes with your CDs and DVDs as you would any other box in your storage unit. This way, when you’re ready to listen to your favorite tunes or enjoy a movie night in you’ll be able to quickly find exactly what you need.

National Storage have a variety of sizes of storage units available at our locations in Michigan and Ohio to keep your CD and DVD collections safe and ready to enjoy. Contact us today to learn more.

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CD & DVD Storage Tips | National Storage Blog (2024)

FAQs

What is the best way to store DVDs and CDs? ›

Make your discs last longer by following these few simple rules:
  • Keep the discs away from heat and out of direct sunlight.
  • Store discs in a cool, dark place if possible.
  • Be careful to not bend the discs when removing from the case.
  • Avoid humid storage conditions.
  • Store the discs in upright cases when not in use.

How should we store CDs and DVDs when not in use? ›

Discs should be protected from direct sunlight. Even if a disc is stored within a case the build up of heat can cause damage. Discs should be stored in the dark.

How do you store CD efficiently? ›

At home or in storage, it's best to store your collection in a dark, cool place. And when your discs need cleaning, use a soft cotton cloth wiping from the center outwards to the edge. It's also safe to use isopropyl alcohol to clean extra dirty DVDs and CDs when you don't have a specific cleaning solution on hand.

Is it worth keeping CDs and DVDs? ›

Longevity. Physical CDs and DVDs can last a lifetime, provided they're properly stored and taken care of. They can be stored in CD cases or DVD cases. Unlike digital downloads, physical media doesn't run the risk of becoming obsolete or being lost in a digital crash.

Should CDs be stored vertically or horizontally? ›

The disc should be stored in its case and placed vertically, like a book, on a shelf. Long-term horizontal storage, particularly in a heated environment, can cause the disc to become permanently bowed.

How long will a DVD last in storage? ›

The relative stability of optical disc formats
Optical disc formatsAverage longevity
DVD+R (silver alloy metal layer)20 to 50 years
CD-R (cyanine or azo dye, silver alloy metal layer)20 to 50 years
DVD+RW (erasable DVD)20 to 50 years
BD-R (non-dye, gold metal layer)10 to 20 years
11 more rows
Jan 7, 2020

Is it okay to store CDs in the garage? ›

Excessive heat and humidity can damage discs (CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays) over extended periods of time. For example, be sure to store your CDs in a closet in your home or office rather than the garage or attic.

Do DVDs need to be stored upright? ›

It is recommended that DVD discs be stored vertically upright in their jewel cases as opposed to being stored horizontally over a long period of time.

Can you store DVDs in plastic containers? ›

Plastic storage boxes are compact and made specially to store CD's and DVDs. They can typically store up 20-65 of your discs depending on their sizes. This arrangement is ideal if you want to save space, tidy up your surroundings or stow your CD's away.

How do I store a large CD collection? ›

Floating Shelves

Above: Unobtrusive floating shelves work well for storing CDs—and offer limitless options for their arrangement: Hang as many as you need in a stack, a grid, or perhaps a single long statement-making row.

How not to store CDs? ›

CDs should be stored in an area where the temperature is between 5-20 degrees Celsius (41-68 degrees Fahrenheit) and humidity is between 30-50%. Avoid storing CDs in areas where the temperature and humidity fluctuate, such as basem*nts or attics.

Where is the best place to store CDs? ›

Some coffee tables, stools, bookcases and TV stands are designed to discreetly store CDs while serving as functional pieces of furniture. This way of CD storage is especially suitable if you don't have enough space in your four walls for your own CD rack or similar.

Should I throw out my old CDs? ›

CDs don't biodegrade and can release harmful chemicals in landfills. It's best not to throw away old discs unless you have no other choice. A better option is to donate them to thrift stores or to music resellers who might resell them.

What should I do with all my CDs and DVDs? ›

Contents
  • Sell Them Online.
  • Sell Them In Person.
  • Donate Them to Charity.
  • Upcycling.
  • Recycling CDs.
  • Find Specialized Disposal Services.
  • A Note to Music Fans.
  • If In Doubt, Digitalize First.
Mar 5, 2024

Is it safe to store CDs in the garage? ›

For example, be sure to store your CDs in a closet in your home or office rather than the garage or attic. The heat and humidity in these environments will damage your discs over time.

What to do with thousands of DVDs? ›

Take them back to the charity shops! They don't care at all. I've got a local one that sells dvds for 25p each and I'll quite often buy a few that I can't find on Netflix or amazon, watch them and take them back a few weeks later with the labels still on. They get put straight back out.

Do CDs and DVDs store the same amount of data? ›

The CD is capable of acquiring around 700 MB of data. The DVD is capable of acquiring 4.7 GB to 17 GB of data. CD has a single pit layer.

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