How to clean vinyl records like a pro

How to Clean Vinyl Records Like a True Pro

Let me tell you something I’ve learned after hauling vinyl records from home to home: it’s not just about having the best vinyl collection, it’s about keeping it sounding fresh. With the right vinyl cleaner, proper handling, and a solid vinyl care routine, your records can sound just like they did the day you unwrapped them.

1. First Contact – Handle with Care

Always hold the record by the edges. Don’t treat it like a soda can—use clean hands and grip lightly. Each fingerprint adds grime, and over time, that dulls the sound. Slide the record gently out of its vinyl plastic sleeves and into your player. Want top protection? Slip it into an anti-static vinyl sleeve after each session.

2. Pre-Play Ritual – The Dry Clean

Before spinning any record, swipe it with a vinyl cleaning brush. Our go-to is the velvet and wood one from our cleaning kit. A couple of passes from center to edge clears surface dust and prevents it from clogging your grooves.

3. Deep Cleaning – Liquid & Velvet Magic

For records that have had a few heavy plays, it’s time to break out the cleaning solution. A few drops of vinyl cleaner on the velvet brush dissolves embedded grime. Work it gently across the record, let it sit briefly, then wipe clean. Do this every few weeks for maximum sonic clarity.

4. Protect the Label – Keep It Iconic

Don’t forget the label. Getting it wet can warp its appearance. Our cleaning kit includes a label protector, keeping your records’ visual identity intact. Because nothing beats a clean record with a crisp, iconic label.

5. What About the Needle?

Clean records mean nothing if your needle’s filthy. Our kit includes a stylus brush and solution. Just add a drop of cleaner and brush from back to front. Never sideways—you don’t want to damage your setup. This tiny habit keeps sound crystal clear.

6. Proper Storage – Because Dust Doesn’t Rest

After play, slide your clean vinyl into vinyl plastic sleeves, then store it upright in a wooden storage box or vinyl rack. Keep them away from direct sunlight and moisture. Bonus points if you use wall mounted vinyl storage to show them off and keep them safe.

Pro Tips to Make Your Collection Last

• Never stack your records. Always store vertically like books.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes. Heat can warp vinyl.
• Clean regularly. Our vinyl cleaning brush and cleaner combo makes it easy.

Final Spin

Caring for your vinyl is part of the lifestyle. A regular cleaning ritual, solid storage like a wooden box or dedicated vinyl rack, and smart accessories make all the difference.

Your collection deserves more than a casual wipe—it deserves true preservation. With our complete vinyl care kit, you’ll keep every groove sounding golden. Because taking care of your records means taking care of the music—and that, my friend, is taking care of life.