How to Clean Your Vinyl Records

How Often Should I Clean?

The best practice here is to clean your records whenever they’re dirty. For most folks, starting with a thorough cleaning of all their records, followed by cleaning every 10 to 20 plays per side, is a solid beginning. Personally, I tend to do a deep clean during spring. I separate heavily played records from newer ones I haven’t cleaned yet. New records, in particular, can accumulate oils from the pressing process, leading to quicker grime buildup compared to previously cleaned records. Once sorted, it’s time to unwind with some Netflix and the vacuum!

How to clean vinyl records

Vinyl records are cherished for their unique sound quality, but to maintain their integrity and ensure optimal playback, regular cleaning is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to properly clean your vinyl records:

Gather Your Supplies:

Dry Dusting:

Using a lint-free cloth, gently wipe the surface of the record to remove any loose dust or debris. Start from the outer edge and work your way towards the center in a circular motion. Perform dry dusting both before and after each playback session to prevent dust buildup and maintain optimal sound quality.

Deep Cleaning:

For more thorough cleaning, use a mixture of distilled water and record cleaning solution.
Dampen a soft cloth with the cleaning solution, avoiding the label, and gently wipe the record’s surface in concentric circular motions. Ensure the entire surface is covered, paying extra attention to any stubborn dirt or grime. Once cleaned, use a separate dry cloth to remove any excess moisture and ensure the record is completely dry before playback.

Groove Cleaning:

For dirt or debris lodged in the record’s grooves, utilize a carbon fiber record cleaning brush.
Hold the brush perpendicular to the record’s surface and gently move it in a concentric motion along the grooves.
The carbon fibers effectively dislodge and remove dirt particles without damaging the vinyl surface.

Consider a Record Cleaning Machine:

If you have a sizable collection or require a deeper clean, investing in a record cleaning machine may be worthwhile.
These machines automate the cleaning process, using specialized brushes and vacuum suction to remove dirt and debris effectively.

Avoid Homemade Remedies:

Refrain from using household cleaning products or homemade solutions, as they may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the vinyl. Stick to products specifically designed for cleaning vinyl records to ensure safe and effective cleaning.

Proper Storage:

Store your records upright in a clean, cool, and dry environment away from direct sunlight.
Use protective inner sleeves made of polyethylene or paper to prevent dust buildup and static electricity.
Outer sleeves provide an additional layer of protection against dust, scratches, and sunlight exposure.
By following these steps and incorporating regular maintenance into your vinyl care routine, you can preserve the longevity of your records and enjoy high-quality sound reproduction for years to come.

We also suggest you visit the Amazon store and look at other vinyl cleaning kits that might interest you.