If you have a lot of records, you are not alone.Some musicians still produce albums on records due to the superior sound.Records have a high-quality sound, but they need more attention than other forms of music media.The older records can be easily damaged, so cleaning them is a delicate process.If you need harsher methods, start with the gentlest method first.
Step 1: You should wash your hands.
If you're going to clean records, scrub your hands first.It helps keep the records cleaner because you can't transfer as much dirt and oil from your hands to them.When washing your hands, use soap and water, and scrub for at least 20 seconds, getting in between your fingers as you do.
Step 2: Don't let the record go by the edge.
Pressing your hands along two edges will keep oils off the record.Don't touch the grooves where the music plays.The paper label can be used to hold the disc.
Step 3: You can try canned air.
It's possible that you don't need a solution to clean the disc.You can use canned air to blow the majority of the dust and dirt off the disc.You can find canned goods at big box stores.It can help to blow off the record before you clean it.
Step 4: If you want to record a brush, try it first.
A brush meant to clean records is the best bet if the record isn't dirty.The brushes are soft enough to not scratch the record.If you follow the direction of the grooves, you can run the brush over the record.You can find a record brush at a store.There is a small scrubber brush.
Step 5: The water should be warm.
Warm water can help remove dirt from your records.Make sure it is not hot, as that can hurt your records.It should be easy for you to stick your hand in it.It depends on how many records you have to clean.Start with a cup.Distilled water doesn't have the minerals and other additions that your tap water does.It can help remove the dirt from your records.
Step 6: Don't forget to rub the record.
Follow the grooves to start near the middle.You can move outward in a circle.Don't put the label in the water.If you reach the outer edge, move back the other way.Go to the other side.The record should be dry.
Step 7: Pick a cleaning product.
It's not possible to pick up an old cleaning product and use it on a record.Older records are too delicate for that.If you're in a pinch, try a bit of dishwashing soap.There is a debate about whether or not to use alcohol on records.Some say it's safe, while others think it can hurt the record.It's a good idea to avoid any cleaner that has alcohol in it.
Step 8: Take the cleaning solution and cloth.
If you're using a commercial product, you won't need to do anything but apply it.If you want to make dishwashing soap, heat up a cup of water.Stir with a drop or two of dishwashing soap.You won't need a lot.Put a microfiber cloth in the solution.It was ringed out very well.You want it to be damp.
Step 9: Put the solution to use.
Start in the middle and work your way out.The grooves have patterns.If you reach the outer edge, go back in towards the middle.If necessary, repeat.Get the label dry.
Step 10: Dry and rinse.
The soap needs to be taken off after you've applied it.Warm a small amount of distilled water.If you want to wring out the microfiber cloth, dip it in the water and then wring it out thoroughly.On both sides of the record, follow the same pattern that you did before, moving outward and inward.Let it air dry once you're done.