Proper Cleaning of Vinyl

Avoid Dust

As much as possible, keep your records away from dust. Once dust settles into a record’s grooves, the necessary dust removal can become expensive. Keep records in their sleeves and jackets when not in use, and store them properly.
 
 
Records will accumulate dust, though, as most things do! When that happens, you’ll have to clean your records.
 
To clean vinyl (an LP): Use a solution up to 20% isopropyl alcohol (one part isopropyl alcohol to four parts water), and gently wipe the record in a spiral motion, using a soft cloth, from the center out to the edge. Pat it dry with a clean, anti-static cloth. A fine camel hair paint brush can remove visible dust particles.
 
To clean shellac (78s): Never use alcohol-based fluids—alcohol dissolves shellac. Water is a better choice, although water may cause some 78s to swell up due to their lamination. If you use a water-based cleaning solution (such as small amounts of diluted hand soap or dishwashing liquid dissolved in water) clean in the same manner as you would an LP. Rinse with clear water.
 
If you have the funds, clean your 78s with a vacuum cleaning machine (a professional record cleaning device). Good record cleaning machines can be purchased for as little as $200.

Cleaning a Record Cover

You may do more harm than good if you try to clean a record cover or its label, especially if it’s a matte cover. If it’s a glossy cover, one or several of the following cleaning tips may remove unsightly marks. (Warning: Attempt at your own risk.)
 
  • Remove dirt by wiping with a damp towel.
  • Erase markings with a rubber eraser.
  • Eliminate pen marks by spraying a small amount of hair spray on a cloth, then wiping on cover.
  • Remove tape, labels, or stickers by first heating them with a hair dryer.
  • Clean cover only after removing the record from inside.
Once again, try these only on a glossy cover—even then, you may damage your cover. Be careful.

Cleaning Your Equipment

Don’t forget to clean your equipment as well as your record albums. A dusty turntable can ruin your meticulous record-cleaning efforts.
 
To clean equipment:
  • Keep your turntable mat clean.
  • If you have a felt mat, don’t try to wash it. Instead, use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner.
  • Consider playing records with the dust cover down, if you like the resulting sound. It can help prevent dust from settling on your turntable.
  • To clean the stylus, dip a paint brush in isopropyl alcohol, gently moving the brush from the back of the stylus to the front. You can also buy stylus cleaning kits for about $25.