How to Eliminate Static Electricity From LP Records

Fans of vinyl records are all too aware that their favorite format requires some extra care and attention. Besides the obvious difficulty of finding new LPs, music buffs have to make sure the records they already own play smoothly. Static electricity, which forms when the record touches another surface in a dry environment, can lead to irritating feedback if not properly addressed.

Things You'll Need

• Spray bottle
• Rubbing alcohol
• Water
• Dish soap
• Face-cleansing peel (emollient-free and hypoallergenic)
• Artist's brush
• Paper towels
• Lens cloth
• Eyeglass towel
• Antistatic record sleeve

Instructions

1. Apply face-cleansing peel to the surface of the record with an artist's brush. Make sure the peel is hypoallergenic and free of emollients. Wait until the peel dries, and then gently pull it off.

2. Fill a spray bottle with a mixture of one part rubbing alcohol and one part water. You may want to add a dash of dish soap, as well. Cap the bottle and shake to mix. Spray the solution on your record, taking care to avoid the label. Carefully wipe off the solution with a paper towel.

3. You may also use a lens cloth or eyeglass towel to wipe off the record. These work well because they are unlikely to leave any residue.

4. Pick up the record by the edges and slide it into an antistatic sleeve for storage.

References

• Zimbio
• Vinyl Engine Forums
• Hawaii Leeward University