Clean records sound dramatically better. Dust, fingerprints, mold release compound, and accumulated grime all create surface noise — pops, clicks, and hiss that obscure the music underneath. A thorough cleaning can transform a noisy used record into something that sounds nearly new.
This guide covers every cleaning method from the 10-second pre-play brush to deep wet cleaning. Start with the basics and upgrade your routine as your collection grows.
Dry Brush Before Every Play
This is the most important habit in vinyl care. Before every play, gently place a carbon fiber anti-static brush on the spinning record and let it sweep from the outer edge toward the center. This removes surface dust and discharges static electricity that attracts particles.
Hold the brush lightly — the carbon fibers do the work, not pressure. Sweep for 2–3 rotations, then lift the brush away toward you (pulling collected dust off the record). The AudioQuest Anti-Static Record Brush ($15) is the standard. Every vinyl listener needs one.
Clean the Stylus Regularly
A dirty stylus drags debris through your record grooves, causing damage and degrading sound. Use a dedicated stylus brush — gently brush from back to front (never side to side, which can bend the cantilever). Do this before every listening session.
For deeper stylus cleaning, a small dab of Blu-Tack or a dedicated stylus cleaning gel works well. Gently lower the stylus into the tacky surface and lift. This removes caked-on debris that brushing alone can't reach.
Wet Clean Used Records
Every used record should be wet-cleaned once. The Spin-Clean Record Washer ($80) is the gold standard for home use: fill the basin with distilled water and cleaning solution, rotate the record through the velvet brushes, dry with included lint-free cloths.
If you don't have a Spin-Clean, a spray-and-wipe approach works: spray dedicated cleaning solution (never household cleaners!) onto the record surface, gently wipe with a microfiber cloth in circular motions following the groove direction, then dry with a clean cloth.
Deep Clean New Records
Yes, even new records benefit from cleaning. Manufacturing leaves mold release compound in the grooves — a residue from the pressing process that creates a film over the music signal. A single wet clean removes this and opens up the sound noticeably.
You don't need to deep-clean every new record, but do it for audiophile pressings and any record that sounds duller or noisier than expected on first play. The improvement can be significant.
Dry and Store Properly
After wet cleaning, let records air dry in a clean rack or stand them vertically for 10–15 minutes. Never play a wet record — moisture in the groove damages both the vinyl and your stylus.
Once dry, place the record in an anti-static inner sleeve (MoFi-style poly-lined) — not the stock paper sleeve. Paper sleeves scratch records over time. Store the jacket in a polypropylene outer sleeve to protect the artwork. These small investments protect your entire collection.
Pro Tips
- Always use distilled water — tap water leaves mineral residue in grooves
- Never use rubbing alcohol, Windex, or dish soap — they can damage vinyl
- Clean in the direction of the grooves (circular), never across them
- If a record still sounds noisy after cleaning, the issue may be stylus wear or groove damage
- Store cleaning solution away from sunlight to prevent degradation
- For valuable records ($50+), consider professional ultrasonic cleaning at a local record store
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my records?
Dry brush before every play (10 seconds). Wet clean used records once when you acquire them, and new records once before first play. After that, dry brushing maintains them. Wet clean again if a record starts sounding noisier than usual.
Can cleaning fix a scratched record?
Cleaning can't repair physical groove damage (scratches). But many records that seem scratched are actually just dirty — embedded dust and grime creates noise that disappears after a proper wet clean. Always try cleaning before writing off a noisy record.
Is the Spin-Clean worth $80?
If you buy used records, absolutely. A single session can dramatically improve 10–20 records. Many collectors consider the Spin-Clean the best value investment in vinyl care after a basic brush.