HELP! -- Wet album covers. How to keep from warping?

[Beeb]

I had a leak in my basement and a plastic bin of records got wet. I took them out and separated and dried them as best I could. I experimented using an iron on one cover that I didn't care about. Massive warping. I have the others standing upright in the box, separated by plastic sleeves. Is it best to let them dry slowly? One cover in particular is very valuable. I had to remove it from the shrink-wrap to get at the trapped moisture, which sucks. I now have it pinned flat on the table, hoping that if it dries slowly in a flat position it won't warp too badly. But if anyone knows a better way to address this issue, I'd really appreciate it. Many of the covers were quite drenched, so they're going to be wet for a while unless I use an iron or hair dryer or something. Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[thomo57]

I think drying them slowly is your best option.
Use a fan if possible as air flow as that will hasten the process
No doubt keeping a close eye on them and reposition them as needed
Place something inside so the covers don't stick together.
Once dry put them back on the shelf firmly packed and let time do its work hopefully

 

[Beeb]

I think drying them slowly is your best option.
Use a fan if possible as air flow as that will hasten the process
No doubt keeping a close eye on them and reposition them as needed
Place something inside so the covers don't stick together.
Once dry put them back on the shelf firmly packed and let time do its work hopefully

Thanks! I've been doing that most of the day. I'm afraid I see just the beginning of a curl on the lower left corner, but I've flipped the album over in the hopes it will right itself. Fingers crossed!

 

[jbrainey]

Mold will likely be the biggest problem you have.

 

[Beeb]

Mold will likely be the biggest problem you have.

Less worried about that. I'll put some RidIt dry salts nearby after. But thanks again.