How to Remove Musty Odor From Record Albums
There is something exciting about listening to those old record albums that we all seem to have stored away. However, that excitement can be short-lived when you're faced with the musty odor that can get into these retro treasures. The combination of the albums' age and storage method can result in an unpleasant odor, but luckily there is a quick fix that can have you spinning your favorite records in no time. Keep in mind that eliminating these bad odors requires cleaning the album sleeves in addition to the records themselves. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Clean cotton balls
- Rubbing alcohol
- Window cleaner
- Clean soft lint-free rag
Instructions
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Album Freshening Method
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1
Spray window cleaner on the surface of the album; be sure to avoid the label.
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2
Wipe album with a clean, soft lint-free rag. Follow the grooves of the album when wiping.
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3
Flip the album and repeat the process on the other side of the record.
Album Sleeve Freshening Method
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4
Put a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a clean cotton ball.
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5
Wipe the entire surface of the album sleeve with the cotton ball.
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6
Allow the album sleeve to air dry completely.
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1
Tips & Warnings
If the outdoor temperature is below 80F, sitting the record albums outside will freshen them, but don't leave them outside for longer than two hours. If the outside temperature is above 80F, avoid putting them outdoors because the records could melt.
Be sure to use a lint-free rag when cleaning with the window cleaner. Using either paper towel or tissue will leave residue on the record.
References
- Photo Credit record player image by jeancliclac from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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Window cleaners can contain ammonia and are not recommended for albums. Spin Clean sells record cleaning solution which is preferable. Also, any direct sunlight regardless of temperature can warp an album. I'd be careful of sitting records out to sunbathe.
