How to Store and Display Your Elton John Slipmat
By Elton John Official Store - Elton John Official Store | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: Tips & Care
Learn the best way to keep your Elton John slipmat flat, clean, and ready for play. Includes tips for displaying collectible ornaments alongside your turntable setup.
Quick answer
Store your Elton John slipmat flat in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and clean it with a lint-free cloth to keep the printed artwork looking its best.
Why flat storage matters for a vinyl slipmat
A slipmat is designed to sit flat on your turntable platter. Storing it rolled or folded can create permanent warps that cause wow and flutter during playback. Even if you only use it for display, a warped slipmat looks uneven and can damage the felt or vinyl surface over time.
The Elton John Official Store slipmats, like the Madman Across The Water 50th Anniversary Slipmat and the Who Believes In Angels? Slipmat, feature printed artwork that can scratch or smudge if not handled carefully. Keeping them flat between uses preserves both the sound quality and the collectible value.
Displaying your slipmat without damaging it
Many fans want to show off the iconic album art on their slipmat. A common approach is to frame the slipmat in a standard 12-inch record frame with a clear front. This keeps it flat, dust-free, and visible. Avoid adhesive mounts that stick to the printed surface, as they may leave residue or lift the ink.
If you rotate slipmats for different moods or seasons, store the ones not in use in a flat sleeve inside a record crate or shelf. Never stack heavy objects on top of a stored slipmat, as pressure can emboss the artwork into the felt or vinyl.
Steps to store and display your Elton John slipmat
- Step 1: Clean the slipmat before storing: Use a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth to gently wipe the surface. If the slipmat has a vinyl backing, avoid moisture that could seep under the printed layer. For stubborn dust, lightly dampen the cloth with distilled water and wipe in one direction. Checkpoint: Never use alcohol or abrasive cleaners — they can dissolve the printed ink.
- Step 2: Store flat and away from heat: Place the slipmat in a flat record sleeve or between two sheets of acid-free paper. Lay it inside a record crate or on a shelf where it won't be bent. Keep it away from radiators, direct sunlight, and humid basements. Checkpoint: A warped slipmat cannot be flattened again — prevention is the only fix.
- Step 3: Display safely with a frame or stand: Use a 12-inch record frame with a clear front and a backing board. Slide the slipmat in so it lies flat against the board. If you prefer a stand, choose a slotted display easel that holds the slipmat by the edges without pinching the printed area. Checkpoint: Avoid frames with magnets or metal clips that could leave marks on the slipmat surface.
- Step 4: Pair with a collectible for a themed display: Place the Waterford x Elton John Rocket Ornament next to the framed slipmat. The crystal flame and metallic nose cone catch light, creating a small visual centerpiece. Dust the ornament with a soft brush every few weeks to keep it sparkling. Checkpoint: Check that the ornament's base is stable and won't tip onto the slipmat frame.
Product facts
- Waterford x Elton John Rocket Ornament: Set a course for the stars with this stunning design, featuring a delicately crafted crystal flame blasting the rocket into space. The crystal ornament adds a sparkly centerpiece next to your turntable, but its metallic nose cone and hand-painted star accent need gentle dusting with a soft cloth to avoid scratching.
