How to Clean Used Vinyl Records Before Playing Them on a Turntable

Have you ever played a record only to find that the sound is muddled, filled with noise, or even distorted? This can often be due to the accumulation of dust, grime, and debris on the vinyl surface. A clean record is essential to enjoy that deep, rich audio that has captivated listeners for decades. In this guide, we will walk you through various methods to clean your vinyl records and ensure pristine sound quality.

The Importance of Cleaning Vinyl Records

Whether your records are new or used, they may require cleaning. New records still have protective mold release coatings, while used ones can accumulate dust and residues over time. It’s crucial to clean them before playing to prevent damage to sensitive stylus tips and avoid the degradation of the record itself. Neglecting this step can lead to permanent damage and loss of audio quality.

Tools and Products for Vinyl Cleaning

To maintain your vinyl records, you will need a few essential tools and products:

Zerostat: A charged particle blower that removes static cling from the surface of the record. Discwasher Pad: A cleaning pad designed to wipe off dust without leaving residue. Vinyl Styl Record Cleaning System: A machine that efficiently cleans the record using a reservoir of liquid.

Methods for Cleaning Vinyl Records

Here are the step-by-step methods for different levels of dirtiness:

For Relatively Clean Records

1. Aim the Zerostat at the surface to remove any static cling.

2. Use a Discwasher Pad with the accompanying cleaning liquid to wipe off dust and light debris.

3. Place a rubber platter mat on a flat surface and the record on top.

4. Execute circular motions following the grooves with the cleaning pad.

5. Complete the process using the Vinyl Styl machine for thorough cleaning.

For Moderately Dirty Records

1. Use an Endust Screen Electrical Wipe to wipe down the surface, avoiding wipes containing alcohol.

2. As in the above method, place the record on the rubber platter mat and execute circular motions with the cleaning pad.

3. Finish with the Vinyl Styl machine for final cleaning steps.

The Ultimate Cleaning Solution

For records that are really dirty and noisy, the ultimate solution is a mixture that:

Contains water, baking soda, vinegar, and ammonia in specific proportions. Works phenomenally well, surpassing other cleaning methods.

Ingredients: Water Baking Soda Vinegar Ammonia 1 gallon 1/4 cup 1/2 cup 1 cup

Instructions: 1. Mix the ingredients in a reservoir designed for the Vinyl Styl machine.

2. Rinse the record twice, once in plain tap water and once in vending machine water, each time adding a drop of detergent.

3. Complete the process in the Vinyl Styl machine for the best results.

Post-Cleaning Drying

It is critical to allow your record to air dry after cleaning:

Avoid using any cloths as they may leave microfibers on the surface. Allow the record to air dry naturally. If you must use a cloth, consider the Diaper-like Spin Clean cloths as they are less likely to deposit fibers.

By following these steps, you can ensure your vinyl records are clean and free of dust and debris, resulting in a richer and more vibrant listening experience.