Content

• Steps
• Method 1 of 3: Cleaning the record
• Method 2 of 3: Handling Records
• Method 3 of 3: Storing records
• Tips
• Warnings
• What do you need

Record collectors know how important it is to store them properly. There are advantages and disadvantages to vinyl records. The disadvantages are mainly due to the fact that the records deteriorate over time. If you want to preserve your collection for a long time, it is very important to know how to do it correctly. The preservation of the collection depends on how you properly clean the records, hold and store them.

Steps

Method 1 of 3: Cleaning the record

1. 1 Regularly remove dust from the plates with a special brush. This is the most important aspect of collection maintenance. Every time after listening to a record, clean its surface with a special brush. It's even better if you do it both before and after listening. Remember to clean the brush with a clean cloth after use.
2. 2 Deep clean regularly. In addition to a brush, it is necessary to use a vinyl cleaner to clean the records from time to time. You can process the plate by hand, or in a special machine.
   • If you have more than a hundred records in your collection, consider purchasing a vinyl cleaner and washer. These machines are usually expensive, but clean the records quickly and efficiently.The clipper automatically treats the record with cleaning fluid, removes dirt and dries the vinyl.
   • It is cheaper to clean the records by hand. Cleaning kits include a brush, liquid and a small brush to clean the main brush. These kits show good results in cleaning records, but take longer to use.

Method 2 of 3: Handling Records

1. 1 Handle records as carefully as possible. Avoid touching the audio tracks with your fingers. Grease and dirt from your fingers will damage the platters. It is best to hold the plate by the edges or label.
2. 2 Keep the air contact of the plate to a minimum. After removing the record from the inlay bag, immediately install it in the player. Put the record back in the sleeve immediately after playing. This will allow less dust to settle on the record.

Method 3 of 3: Storing records

1. 1 Keep records in their envelopes. Make sure that all records are stored not only in the envelope, but also in the insert bag. Internal paper envelopes are not bad, but polymer envelopes are better due to the fact that they have an antistatic effect, which additionally protects the plates from dust. It will not be superfluous to protect the envelope of the plate with an outer plastic cover. Replace liners and covers as they wear out.
2. 2 Store records correctly. Vinyl should be stored in a cool, dry place. Do not expose records and envelopes to direct sunlight to prevent damage to the recording and discoloration of the envelope. Frequent changes in ambient temperature also damage the records. Plates are stored strictly vertically, horizontal or inclined position harms them.

Tips

• Mylar covers stay transparent longer than polypropylene covers.

Warnings

• Do not try to clean the records with tap water, alcohol, or lighter gasoline. Substances dissolved in them can damage the recording.
• Many people treat the record with water before putting it in the turntable so that the record clicks and hiss less. This method is very harmful to the record, dust gets clogged into the soundtracks. Also, water weakens the attachment of the needle.

What do you need

• Earbuds
• Covers
• Vinyl cleaning brush
• Clean rag
• Record cleaner (optional)
• Cleaning kit