Question 1

How do you clean records with microfiber cloths?

Accepted Answer

For me, it’s not too complicated. Simply grab a microfiber rag and dry off the record you cleaned (using a record cleaning solution of some sort) in a clockwise motion. I usually will do two full revolutions, and maybe even go counterclockwise if necessary.

Also, you can usually buy microfiber cloths in bulk—sometimes 50 or 100 per pack.

Just be wary of the white tag that’s attached to the cloth. Either tuck it away or tear it off—you don’t want it scratching the surface of your record.

Question 2

Is it really OK to use rubbing alcohol on your records?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as one or two drops of isopropyl alcohol won't hurt your records. You just want to use a little bit of rubbing alcohol (as part of an overall homemade record cleaning solution) to help kick up any dirt that’s embedded on the vinyl or inside the groove.

Overall, I've been using it for years and never run into a problem.

Question 3

How often should you clean vinyl records?

Accepted Answer

This is an excellent question. I tend to clean my records just one time. And that one single time is often right when I purchase the actual record.

If the record ever becomes significant dirty for some reason, I’ll clean it again. But after that initial clean, I find I really can get by with wiping the dust off the surface of the record with a carbon fiber brush right before I play an album. In fact, going forward, I’d focus more on keeping your stylus clean than the surface of your record.

Question 4

Can you clean vinyl records with Windex?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can--but it's not recommended. Ideally, if you're going to clean records, you should use a proper record cleaning solution or a homemade solution that contains distilled water, one or two drops of regular dish soap, and one or two drops of isopropyl alcohol. If you're absolutely determined to use Windex to clean your vinyl records, just make sure to rinse off the record with distilled water immediately after you finish cleaning your album.

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