3 Ways to Clean Vinyl Records

Table of contents:

3 Ways to Clean Vinyl Records
3 Ways to Clean Vinyl Records

Video: 3 Ways to Clean Vinyl Records

Video: 3 Ways to Clean Vinyl Records
Video: 3 Simple Ways to Pack for a Move | Judi the Organizer 2024, November
Anonim

The condition of the LPs has a direct effect on the sound quality. To clean the object every day, use a carbon fiber bristle brush to remove dust on the surface. To make it even cleaner, apply cleaning fluid to the surface of the dish. Use a microfiber cloth to gently scrub the plate and dry it. You can also buy a manual cleaning machine.

Step

Method 1 of 3: Removing Dust and Small Flakes

Image
Image

Step 1. Place the record on the turntable

Most people choose to place the dish on the turntable when cleaning because it provides a safe and stable space. If you do this as well, be sure to remove the tonearm from the top of the dish to avoid accidentally scratching it. You should also not press the disc too hard so as not to damage its balance.

Image
Image

Step 2. Remove dust with a canned air compressor

You can buy this product at any office supply store. Follow the directions for use on the can so you don't spray the air too close. Carefully spray air over the surface of the dish until it looks clean and free of dust. Repeat this process as necessary.

Canned air compressors sometimes also release condensed condensate. If this happens, be sure to wipe the liquid off with a clean, soft cloth

Image
Image

Step 3. Clean with a microfiber cloth

Buy a quality microfiber cloth in a medium size. Gently rub the cloth into the small circle on the plate. You can buy this fabric at most hardware or home supply stores. Microfiber cloths are great because they won't scratch your plate and can remove dust easily.

Image
Image

Step 4. Use a carbon fiber brush

Look for a brush made specifically for cleaning vinyl records. You can find this product at many audio or music stores. Position the bristles on the surface of the dish. Start rotating the disc slowly while adjusting the brush position. You can also use a sweeping motion from the center to the edge of the dish.

  • It's a good idea to brush your dish first, even if it will be cleaned later with the wet cleaning method (wet cleaning). Scrub the dish with a dry brush can help get rid of some of the particles that can scratch the dish when cleaned with liquid.
  • Take a look at your brush and replace it if the bristles look curled or worn. In addition, prepare a brush that is specifically stored only for cleaning vinyl records.

Step 5. Use a record cleaning sleeve

This is a cleaning brush that sticks to the surface of the disc being rotated. The brush is able to get rid of dust, dirt and static electricity at the same time. This is a cleaning method that can keep the disc turning needle dust free.

You will need to clean the dial if it looks dusty. Special cleaning products for these objects are usually sold in small bottles with a brush or cleaning cotton

Step 6. Use a static gun

This thing is a plastic gun that can be used to clean vinyl records by removing static electricity from the surface. Follow the instructions for use on the package and point the muzzle of the gun at the disc without touching it. This tool will neutralize static electricity so that the disc is not easily exposed to dust.

If the disc ever makes a rattling, rattling, or creaking sound when it is plugged in or removed from the player, that's a sign that you should clean it with a static-dissipating device

Image
Image

Step 7. Use a sticky roller

You can buy adhesive rolls made specifically for cleaning discs online or at music stores. Drag this roll across the surface of the dish. The object will attract dust. You can wash the adhesive roll or replace the topcoat so that it can be reused at a later time.

Make sure the adhesive roll leaves no residue on the disc. You may need to do a test first to find out

Method 2 of 3: Performing a Total Clean

Image
Image

Step 1. Make your own cleaning fluid

Take a medium-sized bowl, then add clean water and isopropyl alcohol in a 3:1 ratio, and a few drops of detergent or liquid dish soap. Stir slowly. It's best to use purified water so that there are no harmful particles in it, such as particles in tap water.

There is some debate about using alcohol to clean vinyl records. Alcohol is thought to be able to erode the surface of the dish. So, be careful and limit its use

Clean Vinyl Records Step 9
Clean Vinyl Records Step 9

Step 2. Use a ready-to-use cleaning fluid

Record stores and music stores often sell cleaners specifically designed for audio materials. Check the ingredients in the cleaning fluid you buy to make sure it's safe. Be sure to follow the instructions for using the product carefully.

Avoid household cleaning products, such as Windex. This product is too hard for the disc material so it can damage it

Image
Image

Step 3. Place the vinyl record on the cleaning mat

You can buy this soft cork product at a store that sells vinyl records. If you are reluctant to use a liquid cleaner, use a cleaning mat. Place the disc on top of the object, then use the built-in spindle to hold it in place.

Not all cleaning mats are designed to be used with liquids. Before cleaning the dish with liquid, make sure your cleaning mat can handle it

Image
Image

Step 4. Drop the cleaning liquid onto the surface of the dish

After finding a suitable cleaning fluid, drip it several times over the surface of the dish. You can also wet a clean towel with the liquid and use it to wipe the dish. Wipe until the dish is slightly damp, not soggy.

Image
Image

Step 5. Wipe with a microfiber cloth

Prepare a microfiber cloth, then wipe the surface of the dish counterclockwise while following the groove. Do this gently, but make sure you press lightly so that the fabric is in contact with the inside of the groove on the plate. Use a dry, fresh microfiber cloth to dry the entire plate when finished.

Step 6. Use a manual cleaning tool

If you don't want to clean the dishes by hand, buy a machine to do it. There are machines that require special fluids, namely machines that work by brushing both sides of the plate at the same time, and machines that combine suction and brushing methods at the same time. Search online to find a machine that fits your needs.

Some types of machines are sold with a fairly expensive tag, up to more than Rp. 5,000,000. To save money, look for a machine that uses a brush to clean dishes, not one that uses a vacuum cleaner

Method 3 of 3: Taking Care of the LPs

Clean Vinyl Records Step 14
Clean Vinyl Records Step 14

Step 1. Keep the vinyl dry

Never play or store wet LPs. The notion that playing wet LPs can get rid of static electricity is a myth. In fact, playing wet vinyl records can damage the grooves on their surface and make them more difficult to clean. Make sure you wipe the entire surface of the dish with a microfiber cloth or let it dry on a cleaning mat.

Clean Vinyl Records Step 15
Clean Vinyl Records Step 15

Step 2. Be careful when touching the vinyl record

Don't touch the plate too often. However, hold the object by the label or the edge with your fingertips. The grease on your fingers can make it easier for dust to stick to the surface of the dish, making it more difficult to clean.

Image
Image

Step 3. Place the vinyl record in a special storage box

After the dish is cleaned, place it in a good storage box. Buy a good quality, scratch-resistant storage box. This object will maintain the condition of the disc when it is taken and stored again.

Clean Vinyl Records Step 17
Clean Vinyl Records Step 17

Step 4. Store the dish vertically

Make sure you line up the plates vertically with each other. If placed in a reclining position, the disc may bend or warp. If the disc is tilted to one side, it can also cause it to warp. So, keep your collection of discs in rows, leaving little space in between.

Tips

This may sound strange, but you'll also need to clean your newly purchased LPs. The item may have a thin layer of dust from being stored for too long or residue from the manufacturing process

Recommended: