Care of LP's, 45's and other Vinyl Records

Most LPs and singles released after the early fifties are composed of polyvinyl materials and are more durable than it's predecessors. When cleaning vinyl records, I recommend a 50/50 solution ofisopropyl alcohol or denatured alcohol (fewer impurities) and filtered or distilled water (again, fewer impurities). A few claim that alcohol is damaging to vinyl... 70% or more by volume strength and continual contact for a long period of time, maybe... but not in the recommended dilution. Alcohol is water soluble and leaves little or no residue. A mild detergent, such as Johnson and Johnson Baby Bath, can be used in small amounts with water with no rinsing necessary. Photo Flo is a wetting agent used in photography to help reduce water spots and marks during the rinsing of negatives. A couple of drops in the above solutions also help in reducing residual deposits.

The solution should be applied with a soft, clean washcloth, wiping in a circular motion with the grooves. Rinse the cloth often in the solution and replace with a fresh mixture when needed. I recommend thoroughly drying the record with a soft, clean towel... this further reduces residue left behind. Try not to get the labels wet.

Dirty covers and labels are best left alone. If the cover is laminated or glossy, a damp towel can be used... A mild furniture polish does nicely too. Marks or writing on the cover may be able to be removed with a rubber eraser. Permanent marker can be removed by marking over it with a dry erase marker, then wipe with a dry cloth... It really works! Sticker residue can be removed with most citrus-based cleaners or lighter fluid. Again, I stress that these only work well on glossy covers. Matte finish cover and label marks are usually set. You stand a chance of removing part of the print or color and making the situation worse.

Ken's Music Library #0308

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