To have optimum quality sound everytime you spin them, you need to clean your vinyl records regularly and properly. It just takes a few simple steps to keep your vinyl record good as new always.
You will need basic cleaning tools and solutions such as record cleaning pads, brushes and solutions, a turntable and your vinyl record and anti-static guns and record cleaning machines if possible. Or for regular cleaning, a 50/50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and distilled water is an option. A 70% alcohol solution may damage your vinyl records, but not in the recommended 50/50 solution. You can also make use of small amounts of baby bath to clean the vinyl record.
Once you have all the required materials, you can begin cleaning. Start cleaning the stylus and place the record on the turntable, handling the record by edges and labeled areas. Use an anti-static gun if you have it to neutralize grime. Place 2 drops of Photo Flo with the solution to help cut down water spots and marks if you’re using the alcohol-water solution. Apply the solution with a soft, clean towel, wiping in a circular motion with the grooves. This time, the turntable comes useful. When cleaning the vinyl record, don’t get the labels wet. often, replenish with a new mixture when required. If you have a record cleaningp brush or ad, hold the ends of the brush or pad between your fingers and while pressing the brush lightly into the grooves, manually rotate the platter in a clockwise direction. Sweep the brush up and away to lift the dust and use a brush holder or similar object to scrape the dust off the brush, away from the turntable. Dry clean the vinyl record if it is not very dusty and has been cleaned regularly; or you can use a soft, clean towel to thoroughly dry the record.
You would have heavily soiled records if you forget cleaning your vinyl records like most of us. This calls for a somewhat different cleaning approach that needs pre-cleaning them. Place the heavily soiled records on a clean, soft, lint-free cloth and wet-clean the vinyl record in a spiral motion from center to rim. Air-dry or use 100% cottion, lint-free cloth and repeat the steps on the other side. After pre-cleaning your vinyl records, you can proceed to the usual cleaning steps processes.
If the cover of your vinyl record is laminated or glossy, use a damp towel or a mild furniture polish to clean it. To get rid of the marks or writings on the cover, you can make use of a rubber eraser or a lighter fluid. Heating the area with a hair dryer and making use of a citrus-based cleaner or lighter fluid is an efficient way to remove stickers, labels, and tape, and sticker residue. There’s nothing much you can do about cleaning the covers if you have matte finish vinyl record. Since the covers are already set, you would end up removing part of the print or color and making your vinyl records looking worse than dirt. Just remember that it just takes a moment of your time to keep your vinyl record clean and new.