Folks, as I see it--there are several options to deal with a warped record:

1) Return it (if it's not flat--it does not belong in your collection)
2) Ignore and just play it (some records still sound phenomenal even with slight warping)
3) Use a record flattener
4) Get a record clamp to flatten the record on the platter (like the Michell Gyro or similar):

I am curious how other vinyl heads approach this issue?

Kamran, I use my record clamp on every record I play. I have a few records with slight warps. As long as they will play, I don’t worry about it.

It’s been a long time since I had one severely warped, and never have used a flattener, so no idea how effective they are.

Geno

I always use a record weight, but minor dish warps can be helped with a rubber washer and record clamp. If it’s a more significant edge warp I try to get it exchanged. In the past, I’ve tried flattening with two pieces of glass, a low temp oven and a stack of books as it cools. It’s worked, but I’ve also ruined one when I wasn’t as careful on a more significant warp. I’m sure a Vinyl Flat or similar is more controlled. Anymore, I just try to exchange if possible.