Since the early 1900s, records have been largely appreciated by music lovers and collectors of all genres. With a powerful comeback in recent years, vinyl records have weathered the course of time — and with good reason. Those who value vinyl claim the sound is far superior to any other form of listening. To keep your records in the best condition, elongate their lifespan, and preserve their sound quality, it's important to understand how to care for your collection. Read on for our step-by-step guide.
Handling Vinyl Records
Much of how long a vinyl record lasts depends on how you handle it. One of the best ways to maintain quality for years to come is by handling records with care — being extra cautious when moving them between being played and being stored.
Steering Clear of Dust and Dirt
What's the number one rule when it comes to taking care of your record collection? Avoiding dust and dirt at all costs. Vinyl records are delicate and can easily become damaged by even the slightest buildup. When tiny particles fall within the grooves of a record, sound quality decreases, resulting in skipping or further damage. Here are a few ways to prevent dust and dirt from settling into the grooves:
Watch Those Fingers
While it may be difficult to prevent dust floating around a room, you can prevent attracting more to your records from your fingertips. When handling records and moving them from the turntable to storage and back, always handle them by the outer edges and the inner label.
Even clean hands carry naturally occurring oils that can damage the surface and attract dust and dirt into the grooves. Fingertips also pose another threat — scratches. Even the slightest scratch can damage the grooves of a record and negatively affect sound quality.
Pay Attention To The Stylus
Dust and dirt can also affect your records via the stylus of your turntable. If records aren't properly cleaned before being played, the stylus will drag debris along the grooves causing further damage — and carry it over to the next record you play. Regular cleaning and careful handling will keep your records looking and sounding their best.
Cleaning Vinyl Records
Let's be honest — it's not entirely possible to keep your records perfectly clean. The good news is there are a number of cleaning methods that can restore quality. Here are the best ways to clean vinyl records:
Use a Carbon Fiber Brush
Using a carbon fiber brush should always be the first step when cleaning your records. It clears surface dust and lowers static electricity — and when a record is anti-static, it repels dust and dirt, making it harder to settle into the grooves. Clean your records with a carbon fiber brush regularly, ideally before and after each play.
Wipe Down Your Records With a Microfiber Cloth
When wiping down your records, always use a microfiber cloth. Avoid t-shirts or towels — these materials carry lint that can transfer into the grooves and cause damage. Wipe your records with a microfiber cloth and a cleaning fluid of your choice, then follow up with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any remaining particles.
Store Your Records Properly
Proper storage is just as important as handling and cleaning. Always store records vertically — never stack them flat, as this can cause warping over time. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Looking to add to your collection? Browse our Best Sellers, explore our Latest Additions, or hunt for a hidden gem in our Pre-Loved Vinyl collection. Not sure where to start? Our Staff Picks are curator-approved and a great place to begin.