How to Care for an LP or Record
Caring for old records will preserve the music embedded in the grooves while maintaining the value of what may be a significant collection. Vinyl records are more susceptible to heat and humidity than other recorded media, while the record surface, which is exposed every time the record is played, is a magnet for dust. Regular cleaning and care can add years to the life of a record collection with minimal expense and effort.
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Things You'll Need
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Distilled water
- Plastic squirt bottle
- Microfiber cloths
- Dish-drying rack
- Vertical storage unit
Instructions
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Mix a solution of three parts distilled water to one part isopropyl alcohol and pour into a plastic squirt bottle. Shake well before using.
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Dampen the surface of the record you'll be cleaning with the solution, then wipe the record grooves in a circular motion with a clean microfiber cloth.
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Set cleaned records in a dish-drying rack to dry completely.
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Store clean records in protective plastic sleeves, then slide them into their cardboard album covers.
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Arrange records vertically, like you would books on a shelf. Never store records flat or stacked on top of each other, as this can cause warping and cracking.
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Keep records out of direct sunlight in a cool, dry location.
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Handle records only when preparing to play them, or when you're removing them from a turntable. Hold your records by the edges with your fingertips.
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Tips & Warnings
Never put records away if they're still damp from cleaning solution. This is an invitation for mold to grow.
References
- Photo Credit Close up of old Vinyl Records - focus on the record image by Andrew Brown from Fotolia.com
