Gathering your family and friends around the record player is an incredible experience. It’s a time to connect with old memories, share new ones and groove to the music all at the same time. But don’t forget – vinyl records need to be clean to look their best! By following these simple steps, you’ll be cleaning your vinyl records like a pro in no time!
What is 45 rpm vinyl record?
A 45 rpm vinyl record is a disc that is played on a turntable. The grooves on the disc are read by a stylus, which vibrates and creates sound. 45’s are a great way to build your record collection without taking up too much space. Plus, they’re easy to store and transport.
The 45 made it’s debut on March 31, 1949 by RCA and was instantly popular. It allowed people to play their music much louder than the 78’s that were popular at the time. In addition, the 45 had a much wider appeal because it could be played on any size turntable. See the full history of records here.
While the 45 is still popular today, it isn’t immune to wear and tear. Over time, dust and dirt can build up on the surface of the record, causing it to skip or sound fuzzy. Fortunately, cleaning your records is easy and only takes a few minutes.
What you need to clean your vinyl records
To clean your vinyl records, you will need:
-a soft cloth
-a slightly dampened cloth
-a record cleaning brush
– distilled water
– isopropyl alcohol (91%)
– a clean, dry area to work in
Clean Your Vinyl Records By Hand
When it comes to keeping vinyl records clean, there is no substitute for hand cleaning. Not only is this the best way to keep them in great condition, but it’s also a labor-intensive process that is worth it to get the job done right. To clean vinyl records by hand, you will need the following supplies: a Lysol or equivalent cleaner, some Q-tips, and patience (or maybe an extra set of hands). Follow these simple steps to clean your vinyl records the right way:
Brush The Record
To remove any dirt or grime that may be on the surface of the record, use a soft-bristled brush designed specifically for cleaning records. Gently move the brush in a circular motion across the entire surface of the record. Be sure to go slowly and evenly to avoid damaging the vinyl.
Wash The Record
It is important to clean the record thoroughly before storing it away. Use a mild soap and warm water to clean the surface and pay attention to the edges of the LP – they should be completely free from dirt and dust.
Dry The Record
Drying the record properly is essential for preserving its sound quality. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your vinyl records will play smoothly and without distortion. If there is still dirt or dust on the surface, use a vacuum cleaner to clean it up before starting the cleaning process. Make sure to start by gently wiping off any dirt or dust with a soft cloth so as not to damage the surface of the vinyl record itself.
Cleaning Solution Using Dish Soap and Water
There’s no need to spend money on cleaning solutions that can damage your vinyl records. All you need is some dish soap and water. Start by wetting the surface of the record with water. Then, rinse off the dirt and soap residue with cool water. Apply a mild dish soap to the vinyl, and scrub it lightly with a stiff brush. Make sure to use a soft cloth or microfiber towel for delicate surfaces. Finally, dry the record thoroughly with a clean cloth or microfiber towel. That’s all there is to it!
Alternative Methods To Clean Vinyl Records
Since vinyl records are becoming a more popular choice among music listeners, it’s important to take good care of them. Whether you’re cleaning them with alternate methods, machine cleaning, or using boiled water, be sure to follow the correct steps for the surface and record type being cleaned.
Additionally, be mindful of the cleaning process and avoid over-cleaning records as this may damage the surface and reduce its lifespan. So, whether you’re cleaning vinyl records for the first time or you’re a seasoned cleaner, this guide will help you get the job done the right way.
Cleaning Vinyl Records With a Vacuum Cleaner
If you want to clean your vinyl records without damaging them, using a vacuum cleaner is a great way to do it. All you need is a soft brush attachment for the vacuum cleaner. Start by gently brushing the surface of the record with the attachment. Make sure to go over any areas that look dirty or dusty. Once you’re done, turn off the vacuum cleaner and let the record air dry.
Using a Record Washing Machine
It is often forgotten that vinyl records need to be cleaned in the same way as any other type of record. By not cleaning them, you’re risking grime and dirt accumulating over time which can eventually damage the surface. To clean vinyl records properly, opt for a record washing machine – they are highly effective and fast. Make sure to follow the machine’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging your records or fabric turntable mat.
Cleaning Records With an Ultrasonic Cleaner
Ultrasonic cleaners are a great way to clean vinyl records, and they’re becoming increasingly popular among audiophiles. They work by using high-frequency sound waves to remove dirt and grime from the surface of the record. Ultrasonic cleaners are gentle and effective, and they’re also fast – making them a great choice for those who have a lot of records to clean. Just be sure to read the instructions carefully before using one, as incorrect use can damage your records.
Using Vinegar To Clean Records
Vinyl records are usually kept clean by using cleaning solutions and detergents. However, vinegar is a natural cleaner that has been used for centuries to clean various surfaces. Nowadays, it is one of the most popular methods for cleaning vinyl records. Here’s how:
1) Wet the record with warm water and avoid using any abrasives or scouring agents.
2) Apply a liberal amount of vinegar to the surface of the vinyl record and let it sit for about five minutes.
3) Rinse off the record with water until all traces of vinegar have been removed.
Additional Tips and Advice
Music is one of the most cherished aspects of life, and vinyl records are no exception. They offer a unique sound and feel that is hard to find on other formats. However, vinyl records can get dirty and scratched over time. If you’re looking to clean them properly and restore their beauty, follow these steps:
1. Gather the tools and supplies you’ll need before starting the cleaning process. This includes a vinyl brush (if necessary), soap, rubbing alcohol, and warm water.
2. Remove the labels from the records before cleaning – this will make it easier to identify them later on.
3. Dispose of any plastic sleeves or cases that may contain chemicals.
4. Follow these steps for a perfect record cleanse: warm water, soap, rubbing alcohol, and a vinyl brush (if necessary).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to use a vacuum cleaner to clean 45 rpm records?
There is no wrong answer when it comes to cleaning 45 rpm records – as long as you take the proper precautions and clean them step by step. To clean 45 rpm records the right way, first make sure to clean all dirt, dust, and fingerprints off of the surface of the record. Then use a gentle vacuum cleaner to clean the vinyl surface. Be aware of the direction of the airflow so that the record is not damaged in the process.
Finally, dry the record off with a cloth to keep it clean and free of static. Remember – always use caution when cleaning any delicate item, and be sure to read the cleaning instructions provided with your vacuum cleaner before using it.
Can I sanitize my vinyl player with alcohol before playing them?
Vinyl records can actually be sanitized with alcohol before playing them to avoid potential pests or diseases. Additionally, you should take precautionary measures like avoiding getting any liquid on the grooves of the record, in order to avoid damaging or degrading the sound quality.
How do I remove dirt, dust, and stains from 45 rpm records?
To clean 45 rpm records, it is important to first determine the type of record player that they are being used with. There are several different types of players available on the market today, and each require a slightly different cleaning process.
For example, some record players use static electricity to clean records while others use water or cleaning fluid. Once you have determined the specific cleaning method required for your particular player, begin by following the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Do not try to alter or improvise; this could result in damage to your player or even worse, corrupted recordings!
Conclusion
Cleaning your vinyl records is important if you want to maintain their quality and extend their lifespan. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can keep your records looking and sounding like new for years to come. Do you have any tips or tricks for cleaning 45 rpm records? Feel free to share them in the comments below!