How to Clean Vinyl Records - Your Guide

Your records are more than just a medium for music—they’re collectibles, pieces of history, and works of art. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer, cleaning and preserving your vinyl is crucial for maintaining sound quality and extending their life. In this guide, we’ll show you the best practices for cleaning your records and keeping your collection in top condition.

"Why Clean My Vinyl?"

Over time, dust, dirt, oils from your hands, and other contaminants can build up on your records. If not cleaned, this can cause several problems:

Reduced Sound Quality: Dirt and dust in the grooves can lead to pops, crackles, and distortion.
Stylus Wear: A dirty record can wear down your turntable’s stylus (needle) faster.
Groove Damage: Dirt can cause scratches, permanently damaging the grooves and affecting playback.

Regular cleaning helps protect your vinyl, keep the sound quality pristine, and prolong the life of both your records and turntable. Plus they just look way better clean!

Essential Tools for Cleaning Vinyl Records

Before you start cleaning your vinyl, make sure you have the right tools. Using the wrong tools can cause damage, so invest in high-quality supplies:

Carbon Fiber Brush: Removes surface dust and reduces static electricity, or better yet, a Goats Hair Brush to give that little extra care.
Microfiber Cloth: A soft, lint-free cloth for gentle cleaning.
Record Cleaning Solution: Alcohol-free solutions designed specifically for vinyl to prevent damage.
Record Cleaning Machine (Optional): Ideal for deep cleaning, especially if you have a large collection, and are a die hard about your vinyl (a rather expensive option, but a great one at that).
Stylus Cleaner: Keeps your turntable's needle in top condition.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Vinyl Records

1. Dry Cleaning (Daily Maintenance)

A simple and effective way to keep your records clean is to dry clean them before and after each play. This routine will remove dust and prevent static buildup.

Step 1: Place the record on your turntable .
Step 2: Turn on the turntable so as to spin the record.
Step 3: Gently brush the surface with the carbon fiber brush, following the grooves (brushing across the grooves can cause damage and scratches, the last thing we want!).

Important: Always brush in a circular motion, following the grooves of the vinyl. Never brush across them to avoid damage.

Dry cleaning is a quick process that should be done every time you play a record. It helps prevent dust from settling into the grooves.

2. Wet Cleaning (Deep Cleaning)

For records that haven’t been cleaned in a while or are especially dirty, wet cleaning is necessary to remove grime that the dry brush can’t handle.

Step 1: Lay the record on a clean, flat surface (ideally with a microfibre between the record and the surface).
Step 2: Apply a few sprays of vinyl-safe cleaning solution to the surface of the record (AVOID THE LABEL!!).
Step 3: Use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe in circular motions, following the grooves.
Step 4: Let the record air dry completely before playing or storing it.

Preserving Your Vinyl Collection

Cleaning is just one part of the equation. Proper storage and handling are equally important to maintain your records condition.

1. Use Anti-Static Inner Sleeves

Swap out paper sleeves for polyethylene or anti-static inner sleeves. Paper sleeves can generate static, which attracts dust and dirt to your records. Anti-static sleeves help protect your vinyl from these issues.

2. Store Records Vertically

Always store your records upright, just like books on a shelf. Storing records flat can cause them to warp or bend over time, especially if they're exposed to heat or pressure.

3. Maintain a Controlled Environment

Your records should be kept in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in areas that are exposed to direct sunlight, excessive heat, or humidity. A room temperature of 60-70°F (15-21°C) with low humidity is ideal for preserving your collection or else you may find warping (KEEP AWAY FROM THOSE RADIATORS!!).

4. Handle with Care

When handling records, always touch them by the edges or the label. Avoid putting your fingers on the grooves, as oils and dirt from your hands can transfer to the vinyl, causing unwanted static and buildup.

5. Use High Quality Protective Slip Mat

Cheap, thin slip mats for high quality mats that provide protection for your records and your turntables, while absorbing additional vibrations that may compromise sound quality. We even have a range to show your support for your favourite artists {click here}.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced collectors can make mistakes, or just simply forget. Avoid these common errors to keep your records in top condition:

Don’t Use Household Cleaners: Products not designed for vinyl can damage the grooves or remove the protective coating.
Don’t Use Paper Towels or Tissues: These can scratch the surface and leave fibers that attract more dust.
Don’t Store Records Flat: This can lead to warping. Always store them vertically.
Don’t Forget Your Stylus: A dirty stylus can transfer dirt back to your records, damaging the grooves. Clean it regularly.