Last week we received a surprising email from a reader. The subject line: “Will you be doing a piece on storing CD collections?”
“Yes, some of us still have compact discs,” the email began, before we could ask.
“And,” the inquiring reader continued, “we want to figure out how to store and use them in easy-to-use, attractive ways. My CDs and I are yearning for it.”
So: For those embracing CDs again—and those who never got rid of their collections—here are a few efficient ways to store them (and records too).
1. Statement Wall
2. Floating Shelves
3. Tabletop Display
4. Easy-Access Drawers
As far as freestanding drawers go: The Can-Am CD/DVD Storage Cabinets come highly recommended by CD collectors on Reddit; we like the looks of the Stackbin Steel Drawer from Grainger Industrial for smaller collections. Store CDs spine side up for easy finding.
5. Rolling Cart
Mobile listening station, anyone? Make like libraries the world over and use a rolling cart or a book truck for handy storage. Look for a model with skinny shelf depth (standard CD jewel cases measure about 5.59 inches wide). The Slim BioFit Book Truck from The Library Store (with a shelf depth of 7.5 inches) would work well, or stack CDs with spines facing up on Ikea’s Råskog (an idea we’ve spotted on TikTok, of all places).
6. Baskets or Bins
7. Skinny Tower(s)
Have another CD storage idea? Let us know in the comments.
And for more storage solutions, see:
- Found Space: An Architect Couple’s Laundry Closet, Under Stair Storage, and More
- A Standby Reconsidered: Mustard Made’s Storage Lockers in Game-Changing Colors
- DIY: Surprising New Uses for Cookware in the Kitchen and Closet
Frequently asked questions
What was the surprising email the reader sent regarding CD collections?
The reader inquired about how to store CD collections attractively.
What are some efficient ways to store CDs and records?
The post suggests using statement walls, floating shelves, tabletop displays, easy-access drawers, rolling carts, baskets or bins, and skinny towers.
How can CDs be stored attractively on a statement wall?
CDs can be stored neatly and at eye level on a statement-making wall-mounted shelving system.
What is a recommended option for storing CDs using floating shelves?
Unobtrusive floating shelves offer limitless options for arranging CDs, and U-shaped versions designed for CDs are available.
How can CDs be stored on a tabletop display?
Small CD libraries can be stored and displayed on tabletop stands, such as the Steel Plate Desk Bookcase from Manufactum.
What is the benefit of using easy-access drawers for CD storage?
Drawers provide easy access to CDs while keeping them out of view, making it a preferred storage option for some CD collectors.
How can a rolling cart be used for CD storage?
A rolling cart can serve as a mobile listening station and provide handy storage for CDs, especially when selected models have thin shelf depths.
What is a recommended way to store CDs using baskets or bins?
Stash CDs spine side up in baskets or bins, which works well for small collections that you prefer to keep out of sight.
How can CDs be stored using skinny towers?
CDs can be stored in skinny tower shelves like Ikea's Gnedby shelves, or by incorporating built-in shelves designed specifically for CDs.
Do you have another CD storage idea?
Feel free to share your CD storage ideas in the comments section.
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