If you're only seeing large dust particles on the surface but not hearing much in terms of popping and crackling, then I'd go with just a basic carbon fiber brush like this AudioQuest one. If you're new to vinyl and don't already have one, it's a good thing to pick up anyway. It's good practice to brush each side before each spin. While these types of brushes won't clean a truly dirty record, they'll help your clean records stay clean.

If your records are noticeably loud and noisy then you'll probably have to go the route of wet cleaning. I see kits like this one a lot but I don't think they're really worth the money. You can do a better (and cheaper) job with:

• Microfiber Cloths - Run them all through a cycle in your washing machine (just water, no detergent) to get rid of any fuzz.
  
• Isopropyl Alcohol & Distilled Water - Put a solution of 1 part alcohol and 2 parts water into a spray bottle. You could even use as little as 1 to 4, I don't think it makes a huge difference. Make sure to get 90% plus alcohol and avoid any types of additives like menthol.
  
  You can lay one cloth flat to set the record on, spray it down and scrub around lightly with one of the cloths (it can help to dampen this with the distilled water). Personally I like to then dry the record with another cloth, spray it down with just distilled water to rinse it then dry again and repeat on the other side but you can find a method/system that works for you. If you're being super particular about it then remember to flip and replace the cloth the record is on so as not to contaminate the side you just cleaned. Also if you're worried about getting your labels wet, car applicator pads like these actually cover a label almost perfectly and they can also be used in place of a microfiber cloth to scrub the record, they work great.
  
  If you plan on sticking with vinyl for awhile though it's worth it to save up for a SpinClean. I was a skeptic for a long time but I'm glad I finally got one, it really is worth the money. It does a good job, it's well built and it's stupidly easy to use. If $80 seems too steep for a yellow plastic trough (which it really is, unfortunately) there are cheaper models such as this. Doesn't have a lid and comes with different cleaning fluid but it doesn't seem like a half bad option.
  
  Whichever option you go with always make sure you're putting your newly cleaned records into clean inner sleeves. If they were dirty in those sleeves it's very likely those sleeves are dirty too. Also remember to keep your turntable mat and stylus clean.

2 Things, I would invest in a Spin-Clean: https://spinclean.com

Yes its a tad expensive but makes a world a difference and is a safe way to clean all your records. I have one myself and its worth it if you want to safely clean and preserve your records. Plus its a nice relaxing experience.

Also I would also look into cleaning your stylus. It doesn't take much to build up debris on the stylus and that can absolutely affect how your records sound. There are many ways to do it, I use this: https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Stylus-Cleaning-Kit/dp/B00C77D6DW

some people have their own ways of doing it, but again like before this can and will make a world of difference for your records and help not damage them in the long run.

Lastly, I love this guys channel, he has a slew of videos that answer a lot of questions you may have.

This one is great for tips about clean your stylus: https://youtu.be/KQMe_YOaGjQ

And this one is great just for overall questions about cleaning everything: https://youtu.be/j8ggzzDwMjs

Hey! Stoked on your purchase! Curious though, did you mean LP120?
But hope I can help answer your questions!

1. I tend to not, the main dust cover is plenty imo.
   
2. A stylus brush, a wet anti static record brush, along with the one you have in your post. Basically just cleaning tools. Another good buy is one of these record sleeve packs. Once you start collecting, its best to replace the paper sleeve a new record would come with or an old sleeve from the thrift store. Keeps the records in their best shape. Lastly, one thing ive been eyeing is one of these. Seems to have some pretty good reviews.. haha
   
3. Stick er on the turntable, turn it on and use the wet brush for a few rotations. NEVER move the brush in terms of side to side motions, always let the spinning do the work. This video has some tips on cleaning, give er a watch
   Hope my answers help!! Enjoy your new turntable!! Whatcha listening to??

What's the best way to clean records when you don't have your Project VCS to hand?

Pretty much, I've come back to uni with most of my records cleaned on my Vaccum cleaner, but I've acquired a couple of second hand albums and want to give them a spin, what's a cheap and effective method of giving these a quick clean? I have been looking at the solutions on amazon such as this (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ecomoist-Vinyl-Cleaner-Microfiber-product/dp/B01DTD2T5S/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=vinyl+cleaner&qid=1554203036&s=gateway&sr=8-9)

If none of the other things listed here work I can also give you a couple things to try. I had several issues with my Pro-Ject turntable and but FAR the two biggest things I did to improve sound was buying a scale to measure the ACTUAL downforce on the needle and adjusting it to the correct weight. I followed the directions included with the turntable over and over again and I kept getting the same muddled sound that I knew just wasn’t right. Once I got the scale I was able to see that the downforce on the needle was WAY too much, once I backed it off it sounded 1000 times better. Also, too much downforce on the needle will ruin your vinyl prematurely. The second thing was an anti static platter mat, which helped a little with the popping. Also get yourself a really good dust brush.

1. Stylus scale
   
2. Anti Static platter mat
   
   Dust brushes come in a few different styles. I have been using the skinny one I listed first below but I am going to order the 2nd one I’ve listed soon, it looks promising. The other is like a shave cream style that I’ve heard others say works very well.
   
   
3. skinny style brush
   
   
4. [roller sticky style ], the one I’m trying next (https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Buddy-Cleaner-Cleaning-Required/dp/B071Z2GZ5N/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=Vinyl+dust+brush&qid=1557788460&s=gateway&sr=8-10)
   
   
5. shave style
   
   Good Luck! Keep us posted on what solves your issue!

> I'm convinced I'll never find another copy of the ones I love if I destroy them even when I know that's not true.

So, 2 things here:

First, it might help ease your mind if you actively know where/how a replacement can be found, and for how much. I'd suggest checking out discogs. This will allow you to see all the vinyl releases for a specific album, and how many are for sales and what the going prices are. For Carpenter's records, you're talking about albums where the shipping cost of $4 would likely be more than the album itself. And if you have a local record store, the task is even easier.

Second, vinyl records are much more resilient than people will give them credit for. Yeah, ideally each album you have will be pristine forever and never encounter dust and not have any pops or cracks in the playback. But, in reality, most vinyl has some inherent flaw right off the press. Whether that's debris from the paper sleeve that got into the groove, or a finger print from a worker that packages the album, or light scuffing from distribution. It's a physical format and that means it will interact with the physical world. Embrace that. It's what makes this hobby fun - it's tangible art. And it's not perfect. But that's okay. Because you'll still be able to drop the needle and hear the music and enjoy the music. And that really isn't going to change if a bit of dust gets on the album, or the jacket gets a little scrape, or even if you accidentally sneeze all over the record.

If you want to be meticulous with your albums, I'd suggest the following 3 products:

• Spin Clean
  
  
• An anti-static brush
  
  
• A gel stylus cleaner

To be clear, this is the pen issue we're talking about.

There is a large pen offset, when you touch the metal frame of the device while resting your palm on the screen. This only happens on the SP2017 and Surface Book 2 in combination with the new 2017 Surface Pen.

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUw0W68SfPs
  
  
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gK1Sqrjo7ic
  
  And here another consequence of this issue
  
  
• https://assets.change.org/photos/9/rj/iv/sJrJIVVNrRvTLxM-800x450-noPad.jpg
  
  More than ten SP2017 and five SB2 13" devices I tested, some with LOTs as late as 1750, and with 4 pens, some with LOTs as late as 18xx, had this metal touching offset issue. See also stickied thread.
  
  
• https://www.reddit.com/r/Surface/comments/7of68m/surface_pro_intermittent_pen_inaccuracy_when_hand/
  
  
  Here some interesting comment from the support forum that might be helpful.
  
  > I also use a bamboo pen for when the surface one starts acting up. I also felt at first like the latest update solved the problem, only for the problem becoming worse shortly after. However, it got worse around the same time a cold front hit my country and the air became drier resulting in higher static electricity. I even noticed my hair getting attracted to the pen due to this. When I tried discharging myself it got a little better and now the cold front has passed us, the performance of my pen seems to be higher as well. So I feel like there’s a corelation between the jitter and static electricity. I always keep hand cream on hand now, and when the jitter gets worse, applying it to my hands seems to help as well.
  
  Also, someone suggested this.
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Milty-5036694022153-Zerostat-Anti-Static-Blue/dp/B0033SHDSS
  
  And this might also be helpful.
  
  
• http://www.electrostatics.net/articles/static_build_up_on_people.htm

Meta-hobby! I've only been back into collecting for about 3 months. I have about 60 at the moment.

My washing method (3rd time I posted this today...I should probably just make it a post :) is as follows:

• Tergi-Kleen: http://www.amazon.com/TergiKleen-Alcohol-free-Tergitol-based-Concentrate-Cleaning/dp/B019YI38Z2/
  
• paint edger: http://www.amazon.com/Shur-Line-500-Premium-Paint-Edger/dp/B0001MQI9E/
  
• some large pans (I ended up getting some oil change pans for $2.50 each from WalMart)
  
• rubber pads (large rubber washers work great, as would small squares of rubber)
  
• distilled water
  
• lint free towels
  
  The technique:
  
  Pan 1 has the water, tergikleen (just a few drops) and rubber washers. Pan 2 has clean water for rinsing
  
  I fill pan 1 just deep enough to cover the rubber pads and the top of a record when placed in.
  
  I then place in a record, submerge it, then take the paint pad and do a few laps in one direction, then a few in the other. The rubber pads allow you to wash the record right in the pan without hurting the underside of the record. It also prevents the LP from 'sticking' to the pan due to suction.
  
  Flip the record over, repeat.
  
  Give it a bath in the rinse water.
  
  Dry with the towels.
  
  Prop up on a shelf to finish air drying.
  
  Works great.

I'd love some input on my current homemade record washing fluid dilemma! Basically multiple questions.

I've used up my record washer fluid that came with my cleaning system (VinylStyl). Now I want to make one of two cheaper, homemade record washer fluids but I don't know which one is a better idea. I also use a vinyl vac for when I don't need to do deep cleaning.

I have a VinyStyl Record spin cleaning system (basically what I think is a better spin clean) and don't want to buy the manufacturer record washer fluid again.

Option one is tergitol with distilled water. And if I do this, would buying a pint of tergitol for ~$22 be more cost effective than buying a product called tergikleen for $22 from Amazon?

Option two is making the more well known 4 part distilled water/ 1 part 99% Isop. alcohol / 0.5 % Ilford Ilfoto wetting agent for ~$23 (cheaper on B&H).

I'm leaning towards option one, with a tergikleen/distilled water setup. My further question is if tergikleen is ok to use with a plastic and goat hair brush spin system like the vinyl styl? Would it have a bad reaction in any way? Or is sticking with an alcohol washer fluid like the manufacturer gives you a better idea?

Also, the con of the tergikleen method is having to rinse in water after. So idk. Tergikleen doesn't contain alcohol (which does damage 78 RPM shellac-based records) so that's nice.

Here are the discussion sources I gathered my cleaning fluid info from: 1 . 2 . 3 . 4 . 5 .

Lastly, the prices that record cleaning companies are able to charge for their small volume cleaning fluids is a sham.

In addition to a Spin Clean, I have 2 other recommendations. First is a roller-cleaner like this and the other is Mofi inner sleeves.

I clean everything I buy in a Spin Clean first. Once the records are sparkly clean, I put them in the MoFi inner sleeves to keep them clean and static-free. At that point, there is very little dust or anything to deal with when I pull them out, and what is there the roller pulls right off in a couple swipes.

I never need to use my carbon fiber brush anymore... as in never... I don't even know where it is these days. And I very very rarely need to use my Groovewasher anymore either.

Good Luck.

Lasermedia VNC-8 Professional Vinyl Record Cleaning Fluid 8 Oz Spray Bottle by TME

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B017U7LK40/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_CgW-Bb1XD1A2J

I use this record cleaner for $18 a bottle and the amazon basics micro fiber clothes at $10 for 25 cloths or something like that. Spray the record 4 or 5 times per side and then wipe clean with the cloth. Change the cloth out every so often. It’s not as good as a spin clean or machine clean but it’s less than $40 to clean hundreds of records pretty nicely. Then I do the carbon fiber brush before every play.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/d/Musical-Instruments-DJ/Ecomoist-Vinyl-Cleaner-Microfiber-Towel-Green-product/B01DTD2T5S/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1494097876&sr=8-1&keywords=vinyl+cleaner

Since I'm pretty new to record collecting I ordered some of this stuff works great so far not for deep cleaning really but good for charity shop/car boot finds.

I'm interested in trying out the wood glue method I know its tedious but hey DAT satisfying peeling at the end..

I feel your pain, I've been printing 20x24... with a glass carrier... and contrast masks. So sometimes 8-10 surfaces for dust to collect.

90% of household dust is said to be human skin, so don't lean over your negs too much. Static makes dust stick, so keep the humidity up - run some hot water, get a small humidifier. Darkroom are usually easy to get the humidity up.

Clean your enlarger every few weeks - take off the condensers, disassemble, blow with compressed air, and put a clean trash bag over the enlarger when not using it. heat from the bulb will make dust float around in there.

I use a zerostat gun, but that's pretty luxe. But for $20 or so I rigged up an LED magnifier on a magic arm. My process:

Wipe down the work area with a damp towel and run some hot water (I have an electric kettle that I turn on).

Zerostat the neg if you have one. Then give it a good blast of canned air, front and back. Look at it under the LED light (with no backlight). Twist and turn it so the surface reflects - you'll see individual dust spots. Use a small artist brush to sweep them away.

I clean the glass carrier first (if I use the glass) and inspect it. Then the neg, and seal the neg in the carrier. I'll do a test print and if I see something that's tough to spot, at least I know where to look for it on the neg. Hairs and fibers are much harder to spot (EDIT - by "spot", I mean paint out of the print with spotting dyes as the last step) than dust spots, so avoid wearing those cotton gloves. They seem to dump some fibers.

Are you spotting your prints? It's unavoidable. You'll still get a spot or two, so get some spotting dyes and a #000 and #0000 artist brush (get decent ones, check them out vs. mail order) - use them only for spotting prints. I have long-discontinued Marumi spotting die set, but I do lith printing and toning (so I get reds, browns, ochers, yellows, blues), so I use a good quality watercolor set. I have an awesome loupe with an opening for a paintbrush, so I can actually "paint" film grain back in. That's not necessary for basic spotting but it's nice to have. Sort of the BMW of loupes.

Spotting matte prints is very easy - go light and it will be invisible. Spotting gloss is harder - I use gum arabic powder and mix a little slurry of it to mix with the dyes/watercolors and try to match the gloss. Spotting is an art unto itself, but I really enjoy it, kind of a zen thing. Google has some videos, don't know if they're any good but have a look.

What's the best way to make sure my record collection lasts a long time? Is it fine to just store them on a shelf as is in a cool area? Or is it advised to store each in their own polypropylene sleeves like these here? New to collecting so I want to make sure I'm doing everything right.
Also cleaning. Am I good with just one of those brushes like this? Or do I need some spray too?

Carbon fiber anti-static brushes are only for very light surface dusting, don't push down on it. AudioQuest seems to be the good one. Or Grounded Carbon Fiber Record Brush has a ground wire.

Do you wet clean or wet vacuum clean your vinyl and place in new anti-static inner sleeves? Then the records shouldn't need much anti-static dusting. If you still have dust and static issues get a Zerostat 3 Anti-Static Gun.

DIY wet cleaning: How to clean vinyl records and make your own cleaning solution • Best way to clean your vinyl records. It is also the most economical! • DIY record cleaning • How to clean Vinyl • Wet and Vacuum Clean a Record On the Cheap.

> There were certain biodegradable plastic inner sleeves used in the 1980s

Interesting! I picked up a copy of "This is the Moody Blues" from a flea market recently. Looks like it was produced in the mid 70s. I don't think it was a biodegradeable sleeve, but the inner sleeves WERE all plastic (of some variety).

When I inspected the records, it looked like they were in awful condition. Then I gently wiped at the surface of the record and low and behold it was a just some super fine dust that had rubbed off those old plastic sleeves! I grabbed the discs, brought them home, and cleaned them with my trusty In The Groove. After a cleaning those records shined!

I replaced those awful sleeves and have been enjoying the records ever since. I'd never seen or heard of these plastic sleeves or this awful dust they left before.

It should go without saying that you need the right care and calibration tools to make your day to day listening the best. This is what I use for those purposes;

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005KR15HU/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B2AMSYS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01HRJ9NAY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01KAFG8EG/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00ERPWAK2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GOOAEVK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Of these things, the OnZow is probably the most important, along with the Studebaker record cleaner. If you buy used records a cleaner is a MUST, and even new out of the wrapper records have crap on them. The OnZow gets the junk off your needle, which is a must.

AFTER those things are taken care of, cart or preamp. Both have the most immediate effect on the sound, presuming you are playing quality good condition records.

If a record just has a little dust or a hair or something, I'll roll over it with my in the groove record cleaner. It's a great value, and I highly recommend it. Just don't drop the thing, they break easily.

If a record needs a quick wet cleaning I'll use an old RCA discwasher I stole from my parent's house.

When I buy a used record I thoroughly clean it with a homemade solution and microfiber cloth.

Hey all. Two weeks ago I posted about how I was getting a lot of static electricity on my records after playing a few songs. Link here. I have since bought anti static sleeves and wet washed my records, since one of the comments (which is now deleted) suggested wet washing new records. After that the static problem got a lot better! Every now and then there will be a little bit of charge but I think it is now in reasonable levels. But, even though there is little to no electric charge after playing my records, they still sound as if they are very charged. I've only had these records for a little over a month and they sound like I've been playing them non stop for 10 years. Is it possible the static permanently popped/damaged my records? I use my brush every time I take one out of it's sleeve, and I take good care of them, so I don't think its just because of dust. Any thoughts/advice greatly appreciated!

The submersion in the cleaning fluid is what really does the trick with the spin clean. I used to have a velvet brush that I would wet with cleaning fluid and then water and had mixed results.

I would highly recommend the spin clean. Keep in mind new records may be somewhat dirty but when I say dirty I mean filthy records with smoke, fingerprints and general gunk on them like the kind you find at thrift shops. Your new records cannot be that dirty. But one new thing I purchased recently that I have incorporated into my cleaning routine is the In The Groove record cleaner. I use this first on new records to get rid of the mould release agent, then I clean with the spin clean, then i run a rinse with the spin clean and then use my antistatic device.

https://smile.amazon.com/In-The-Groove-Record-Cleaner/dp/B004MG9YYQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1484277422&sr=8-2&keywords=in+the+groove+record+cleaner

I wrote up this big to-do about how I clean my records, and not sure many people saw it. Pasting it below because I think this hands-down, THE BEST way to clean records.



***



I've cleaned over a thousand of records with this. Highly recommend!!

http://cratedigging.co/13/9832/product_review__squeaky_clean_mark_iii_record_cleaning_machine

One pass to suck up loose dirt/dust
Second pass with distilled water + solution
Third pass distilled water only
Flip record and repeat
Solution is the same that the library of congress uses to clean their records. 20 drops per gallon. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019YI38Z2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_7WtMAbSQYZ36W

The included brush with the Mark III wears out quickly. Buy these at Home Depot and cut them in half. I use one for the solution, another for water.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004Z4H2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_MYtMAbMG8T3MW

Solution and water can be applied with these squeeze bottles. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E0CZPNA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_L2tMAbRS7PV87

This cleaning works fantastic for 99%of my records. I can clean a record in 3 minutes. For dirtier records I let them sit in the solution for 5-10 minutes. Stubborn dirt is spot treated with a soft toothbrush.

I put the whole shebang on a storage tub lid (upside down) so liquid that falls off collects in the plastic lid. And when it pools up from lots of cleaning, use a turkey baster to suck up the excess liquid. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H9M6Q46/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_V.tMAbHB8KGDE




My vacuum https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003M2F7NI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_NeuMAb188RH6K

Well yeah, cuz it's just water. There's nothing in it that could leave a residue. What was your process like with the solution? Cuz I don't have that issue at all. My records are glossy black out of my Studebaker. I fill it with distilled water until it sits just under the rollers and then I put in a single cap-full of cleaning solution from my 32oz bottle of Spin Clean solution.

I recently bought some TergiKleen which was recommended by the Library of Congress as well as some other sites I saw. Would it still be wise to buy a spin clean and use the distilled water + TergiKleen to clean vinyls? Using the sink or plastic tub method seems like I'd have to really wash all the dirty vinyls at once, instead of as needed with a spin clean.

I use a Vinyl Buddy (Vinyl Buddy Record Cleaner - Ultimate All in One LP Cleaning Device, Anti-Static & Will NOT Damage Your Records | Rejuvenate & Keep Your Vinyl Sounding Awesome https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071Z2GZ5N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_g8ZACbNAGYW9P), which is essentially a lint roller, to give new, used records a quick clean if I want to listen to it before I wash it with the Spin Clean. It’s effective enough at removing surface dust and dirt.

Thoughts on vinyl-styl washer vs spin-clean? The vinyl-style seems like a better product, and it costs less than spin-clean, but spin clean seems like it's far more popular. Not sure if I'm missing something important, though.

https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Groove-Record-Washer/dp/B01M0LRLM5

I looked through the following reddit thread and saw some good tips about cleaning vinyl. is there a cleaner that people recommend above all others? i'm getting mixed reviews on a lot of different ones and can't figure out what the best is. i saw this one and was thinking of getting it.

I’m a fan of the discwasher. A lot of people use them and they do a decent job. The new one is different than the old ones which were more like a velvet material. Now they are corduroy-like and seem a bit more abrasive. I used a new one for a while before finding a 70s one at an estate sale a few years ago. My local shop uses the new version before putting anything on, so I think the new version is just fine too. You can go through the fluid pretty quickly though, so it’s good to stock up when it’s a good price (which I am not seeing on amazon right now, hmm...)

I generally use an anti static brush as well afterwards just in case.

I use a $4 plastic oil pan, a $5 Shur-Line Edger (refills cost $2.50 for 2 pack), TergiKleen record cleaner concentrate (used by library of congress / makes 30 gallons / $20 but is basically a life time supply), distilled water, 3 spray bottles (distilled water, reg strength, extra strength), and microfiber cloths from Costco (which I rotate through, and repurpose to wash my car). They way I do it, they come out amazingly clean. Wish I had a vacuum and I'd think I have perfection(*ish).

If you are going to stay with your method I read only use Dawn Unscented. Alcohol is frowned upon even though it's been used in a fare number of past cleaning solutions. If you think about it it doesn't make sense anyway. As the alcohol evaporates the dirt in the fluid is just recondencing back onto the record (the dirt isn't evaporating).

You'd be infinitely better off with a regular vacuum and one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-Record-Vacuum-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1496688731&sr=8-1&keywords=record+cleaning+vacuum+attachment

FWIW, I use a spin clean and then vacuum with this on a busted up turntable, and I've been really happy with the results.

Trying to decide on a record cleaner (and hopefully kill static). The obvious choice is the Spin Clean, but I've heard that some people have had issues with it and the brushes, leaving surface noise on the records. I also found this, which is very similar:

https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Groove-Record-Washer/dp/B01M0LRLM5/ref=pd_sbs_23_4?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01M0LRLM5&pd_rd_r=B5896DCX415ECAK13EDM&pd_rd_w=KiFln&pd_rd_wg=WP8Yn&psc=1&refRID=B5896DCX415ECAK13EDM

I like the fact that it has a drying rack too. Has anyone used one of these? And how does it stack up against the Spin Clean?

I was also looking at one of these vacuum things, but I don't know how thorough it would be compared to a wet cleaning.

https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-Record-Vacuum-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1492965447&sr=8-15&keywords=spin+clean

Bonus question: anyone have any experience with this? It was recommended to me but has mixed reviews on Amazon. Thanks!

I’d suggest that you buy a record cleaner, even brand new records can have dust and particles of paper and stuff. This is what I use and it works great! For 10$ you can’t get a better deal

Definitely an issue with the stylus on that turn table... Also keep your records clean by using a record brush and stylus brush!

A Turntable I highly recommend and own myself is the U-Turn Orbit - https://uturnaudio.com/ they are made right here in the US in Massachusetts, and they have phenomenal customer service! I had an issue with my motor, it was making a slight noise, still worked as expected though, the same day they sent me a replacement motor and gave me step by step instructions how to replace at no cost at all!

My Stylus Brush - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07GJRDYGG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

My Record Cleaning Brush - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071DWG4C8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

You need one of these. Expensive, looks stupid, but works great.
http://www.amazon.com/MILTY-ZEROSTAT-ANTI-STATIC-GUN-BLUE/dp/B0033SHDSS

Use only as directed. Despite what it looks like, it's not a toy and you can actually burn your skin with a point-blank shot.

I like a microfiber cloth. It works super well, cheap, easy to clean.

They do cause static in low humidity environments, so a quick wipe with a fabric softener sheet takes that out.

If you have the scratch, however, this brush kicks all sorts of ass. It's not really a brush, but it wont static up your records and cleaning it is a cinch. IMO it works better than any brush.

I have a Spin Clean, which gets mentioned a lot. I'm seriously underwhelmed by it. The method detailed above is way more effective, and a heck of a lot cheaper. I also get really good results from my "In The Groove" sticky roller, which I almost never see mentioned here.

There's also vinyl styl cleaners that are a pretty good value.

New records are some of the most filthy record you can get. Most are covered with mold release agents that you can see as a rainbow sheen on the surface. You should always clean new records before playing.

A record will never be any cleaner than the dirtiest you play it due to the fact that there is so much friction where the stylus hits the surface that the dust actually gets welded into the grooves and you can clean the surface but you will never be able to clean that dirt out of the grooves where it matters.

If you intend on listening to records long term a record cleaning machine is a necessary investment.

Edit: I would not use any old silicone roller meant for picking up pet hair. You should only use one specifically designed for record cleaning as it will not leave any residue. Something like this

In The Groove Record Cleaner https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MG9YYQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_F7TIxbQVVXDCH

I personally use this:

Vinyl Styl Ultimate Care Kit https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01APVUCRY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_XemzDbXM7J71A

Anything with a felt brush and cleaning solution is a good start.

So, for light cleaning and pre-heavy cleaning, I go with this guy. It does a decent job at surface cleaning.

If I want to get a little bit deeper, especially if it's a used album I've not yet personally cleaned, I use this. It's an affordable way to wet clean your records.

I've been using this system for a while, and it works well. I was able to restore a discounted Blonde on Blonde to VG condition.

only use tergitol
use a spin clean or a vinyl style spinner
use the "vinyl vac" to dry them
If you are rich then just get an ultrasonic machine
Links: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M0LRLM5/?coliid=IFR2TWKOM3D25&colid=1BXYRKCVI8SCN&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01M0LRLM5/?coliid=IFR2TWKOM3D25&colid=1BXYRKCVI8SCN&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-33-Record-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1525745514&sr=1-1&keywords=vinyl+vac

The kit linked below is the one I have and the one I usually see recommended.

RCA RD1006 Discwasher Vinyl Record Cleaning Kit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0009K63IY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_j5nbBbB200XVB

For cheap records I’d just start checking out local record stores and thrift shops. You can also get lucky at garage sales finding people that just want to get rid of their shit for the first person with any amount of money. Sometimes you can find some gems in there.

Also, if you’re not on Discogs you should be. Google it, great way to track your collection and figure out the relative value of a particular record.

Hi!

• The thinner models like this one can be problematic as the fibers are super soft and the inside of the brush is empty, so if you put too much pressure while cleaning, nothing is preventing the metal part of the brush from saying "hello!" to the record surface. People scratched records whith these. You have to be super careful.
  
  
• The dual carbon fiber brushes/velvet pad models are the ones I would recommend. Most of the time, the design is the same, only the brand logo changes. One example on Amazon here. The fibers are also soft and short but these have a velvet pad between the two fiber brushes so you won't risk scratching anything.
  
  

I'll second this, as I'm really digging it lately too. It's basically a sticky roller that picks up all dust/fuzz/etc in its path. Of course, it isn't intended to replace wet cleaning, but seems great for light maintenance.
Here's a link:
http://www.amazon.com/In-The-Groove-Record-Cleaner/dp/B004MG9YYQ

That's interesting. Browsing Amazon yields this:

http://www.amazon.com/In-The-Groove-Record-Cleaner/dp/B004MG9YYQ/ref=cm_cr_pr_pb_t

Seems to be pretty much the same.

I have this cheap knock off from Amazon and it works great for me. Cleans the records. I fill the bay with distilled water and put some record cleaning solution on the pads.

Finally, I want to buy some vinyl care products. Of course like the wiki tells us I should get this anti static brush, and I want to get a stylus gauge. Is this one fine?

I haven’t listened to the clear pressing yet but I’ve had issues with static/skipping on IAAN and Deja - they all went away after I purchased this (below) and started using it to clean off my vinyl before (and after..) playing. Not sure if you have one or something similar but it works wonders!

Audio-Technica AT6011 Anti-Static Record Brush https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01GE1ZOPY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_SGc.zbECS8PAC

So cool! Don’t forget to buy supplies to clean the records so they last longer and sound better (also so the needle lasts longer). I use a kit very similar to this Record Cleaning Kit

Interesting find on amazon yesterday. This looks exactly like a spin-wash, significantly cheaper. Anyone heard of it?

I use a carbon fiber brush, but I just hold it in place so it only goes with the grooves. I then use this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004MG9YYQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427659444&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=in+the+grove+record+cleaner to clean up the line of dust left after I pick up the brush. Works well and doesn't really add static as long as you don't push down on the roller.

You can buy cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth at pretty much any record shop for a little bit more than $10.

or here’s one I found on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C5N0CTY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_.0l3Bb6W27RAA

It actually looks really awful to me. It's a Discwasher knock-off. And it actually looks like a very bad knock-off. Discwasher used to be the standard for cleaning kits in the 70s and early 80s before vacuum Record Cleaning Machines became more popular or even somewhat affordable. I still have the one I bought back then. It did it's job for years. But better brushes and cleaning system have made it obsolete.

The original Discwasher was actually not velvet. It was actually a fabric with directional bristles. Although without close inspection it could be mistaken for velvet. The way it worked was you put cleaning solution on leading edge of the brush. You then scrubbed the record by applying the wet edge to the record surface for a couple of revolutions. To dry the record, you rolled the brush to dry edge of the brush, then another couple of revolutions. The directional bristles would actually scoop up the dust, hairs, or any thing else on the surface of the record.

The description of the brush you are inquiring about claims actual velvet. Which means, this is actually a pillow with a handle. You are actually better of buying the current version of the Discwasher. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C1WGG7Y I would highly recommend you avoid the product you are inquiring about. I wouldn't recommend the Discwasher either, as stated it's obsolete. I would recommend the Allsop Orbitrac 3 or a Spin Clean (or any of the cheaper knock-offs). These cost more, but you will be purchasing something that works much better. The biggest issue with the Discwasher is that you will be using a brush that will be used over and over. There is no means to replace the bristles. Mine never wore out, but this is a concern as well. A brush shouldn't last 30 years and not wear out. It shouldn't last a year. A good brush will wear out. Each time a brush is used, there should be wear on the bristles. If the brush isn't deteriorating, then it is deteriorating the record that is being brushed.

Here is a Spin Clean knock off. Half the price but looks the same pretty much:
https://www.amazon.com/Record-Cleaning-System-Solution-Included/dp/B01GOOAEVK/ref=sr_1_42?ie=UTF8&qid=1519320429&sr=8-42&keywords=vinyl+cleaner

Clean, clean, clean. And not just dollar bin finds, or records when you can visibly see dust. Serious collectors spend $$$$ on crazy contraptions, bu there are plenty of cheaper options.

An anti-static brush is not an option. There are plenty out there. I use this one. Place it on the record while it's spinning, and let it hang under it's own weight (i.e. don't put down) for a few rotations. Scrape and dust off of the bristles and do it again. Do this before and after you play each side.

There are lots of solutions and cleansers, some specifically made for vinyl, some general cleansers, some homemade, that are touted as the best way to clean records short of buying a $5000 machine. And a raging debate regarding isopropyl alcohol. Because I prefer to avoid the pain of rinsing, I like cleaners that evaporate/wipe off without leaving residue. I like Lasermedia VNC-8 personally. Ammonia and alcohol free. In between the obligatory anti-static brushings, I spray the record with this, spread across the surface as evenly as I can with one microfiber cloth (call this one the 'wet' cloth, then I use a cleaning brush firm enough to put some reasonable downforce on the surface, then 'wet' microfiber cloth again and then another ('dry') microfiber cloth, by which point most of the solution should have evaporated or been dried by the second cloth. When using cloths and brushes, I always start from the edge of the record and move inwards, following the path of the groove. Never against or parallel to the grooves.

Old, used records obviously should be cleaned before being played, as is true of any records that you've let get dirty/haven't cleaned thoroughly in a while, but new records need a cleaning too. Perhaps not so vigorously, but there are chemicals, residue, and other unwanted debris that can remain from the pressing process.

I know it all seems tedious, but it protects your records (playing a dirty record can permanently damage the surface) and your stylus. Plus they'll sound better. Isn't that the whole point?

I have both vinyl styl brushes (Suprising build quality and I think they are great)

However this is the better one for picking up dust.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00C5N0CTY/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?qid=1418690578&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SY200_QL40


You don't have to use the fluid, it has a little iso alc., which freaks some people out but it's a very small amount as an evaporant (?)

Anyways, the brushes most have linked are antistatic brushes more than cleaning. I recommend both.

I use the Vinyl Styl cleaning brush and fluid for my records and the Vinyl Styl stylus cleaner as well, they both seem to get the job done. I also have an anti-static brush that I use one the record before cleaning it but I'm not sure if that's overkill or not. The kit I linked is out of stock right now on Amazon but anything like the stuff in it should work.

https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-Ultimate-Record-Cleaning/dp/B01APVUCRY/ref=sr_1_6?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1540678362&sr=1-6

http://www.amazon.com/MILTY-ZEROSTAT-ANTI-STATIC-GUN-BLUE/dp/B0033SHDSS

if you got the cash I hear these are great, just don't shoot yourself with it

I use the Spin Clean, it's probably the cheapest way to safely clean records short of doing the wood glue thing, which I would not recommend for cleaning more than 2 or 3 records.

It's probably not a good idea to apply the liquid with a microfiber cloth. Unless you're properly following the groove lines, any pressure you apply can push dust into the grooves instead of removing it. If you want a cheap method to wet-clean vinyl, I recommend a brush like this, although I've never heard of this brand so I can't really say anything about this specific one. A good wet-cleaning brush will have a soft pad made of very short bristles all aligned in the same direction.

I use this it works pretty well. Lots of times I just give my record a once over with the brush.

I'm guessing you're switching the TT from phono to line when changing the input. Are you also changing it on the receiver? Plugging it into phono when phono is selected and plugging it into Aux when line is selected?

I'd say that the pops are due to the records and not the receiver. Get a record cleaning kit and give your LPs a good cleaning. Even new records can stand to be brushed before playing.

hm, there is another type of brush ... a velvet brush http://www.amazon.com/Pfanstiehl-Record-Cleaning-Kit/dp/B0042ASW5O/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1427812365&sr=8-10&keywords=velvet+record+brush. It is good for wet cleaning . There's also sticky tack cleaner (no experience) http://www.amazon.com/In-The-Groove-Record-Cleaner/dp/B004MG9YYQ/ref=pd_sim_sbs_p_5?ie=UTF8&refRID=0QB8H8EBMR5D3RMXVY01 and classic discwasher brush system http://www.amazon.com/RCA-RD-1006-Discwasher-Record-System/dp/B000KMZKTO/ref=pd_sim_sbs_p_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=0QB8H8EBMR5D3RMXVY01

First, make sure you only use distilled water. Nothing out of the tap. Also, only use microfiber clothes on your records. If you don't have any, they are usually only a few bucks on Amazon or at Walmart.

There are a few options:

• Make a DIY cleaning solution, there are tons of options out there if you google it or search /r/vinyl, usually it's water, a tiny bit of alcohol, and maybe a drop or two of dawn, sometime tergitol if you can pick it up.
  
  
• You can buy or make a vacuum wand to clean the DIY solution off your records. Here's one on Amazon, but I've met a few people who have made their own versions for a few bucks.
  
  
• I know you don't want to spend much money but I do have to mention that for $80 you can get a Spin Clean, it's very simple to use and mostly effective, but not as much a use a vacuum cleaner.
  
  
• There is a wood glue method for cleaning very dirty records that some people swear by. I have never used it but there are some videos on youtube explaining the method.
  
  

i got one of these for xmas and it's great: https://smile.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-Record-Vacuum-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1493767166&sr=8-1&keywords=record+vacuum

I've actually heard this one (basically a clone of a Spin Clean) works great

here's a couple bits of advice for you:

1. even if a record is sealed, brand new, ALWAYS clean it before you play it. (link to record/stylus cleaning kit: https://amzn.to/2zsPNUE , yeah it's a bit expensive, but vinyl is an expensive hobby)
   
   
2. stay as far away from those portable speaker record players like Crosleys, they'll fuck your records up. (link to a good entry level record player: https://amzn.to/2FfMhDl , with this turntable you can hook up a bluetooth speaker to it so you don't have to set up a full ass soundsystem)
   
   enjoy your vinyl experience, vro.

personally for me, I wait until I have enough records to make it worth my while to sit down on a rainy day and use the SpinClean. In the mean time, I do a quick over with a microfiber pad like this:

https://www.amazon.com/RD1006-Discwasher-Vinyl-Record-Cleaning/dp/B0009K63IY/ref=pd_sbs_267_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=JPP6NYN475FJKNNRJZ6J

I wet one edge and wipe it down a few times in each direction, then use the other edge to "dry" the remaining moisture off. This is my process for any new record that hasn't gotten a full cleaning and Disckeeper inners. It takes less than a minute per side and removes any large particles and cleans up pops but doesn't fully de-static the record unless youre using the included D4 solution (I did until I ran out and never ordered more).

Some materials are just a pain in the ass to work with. I've seen a fine powder jump out of a vial after grabbing the vial with a neoprene glove, ugh.

A few options.

Alpha emitter anti-static device - Works well, contains polonium!

Anti-static gun - Works, maybe not as well as the alpha emitter. But no polonium!!! Originally made for the vinyl record loving audiophiles.

Oscillating anti-static bars - expensive and not really conducive to a small localized area such as a TGA sample.

There seems to be quite a few other variations on that AMSTAT site (I'm not affiliated), but these are the ones I'm familiar with. My experience was mostly dealing with static in a O2/H2O free glovebox, humidity greatly reduces static.

I bought this record cleaning brush and this record cleaning kit. I haven't cleaned the stylus since I just got the table. I ordered the Onzow Zerodust. As far as cleaning the skip issue on the record, you think a RCM would work? What about this?

The fact that the 2M Red cartridge tracks deeper is something I didn't know and that helps a lot!

I use this brush to clean them and it works well.

I don't know much about powder dosing robots, but have you tried hitting it with a zerostat gun?

https://www.amazon.com/Milty-Zerostat-Anti-Static-Gun-Blue/dp/B0033SHDSS

I love these things

Are you aware of this thing? https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-33-Record-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0 It's not terribly expensive and would probably work better than a piece of velvet with a hole in it.

this thing called Tergitol seems to have good Amazon user feedback.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B019YI38Z2/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1492858492&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=tergitol&dpPl=1&dpID=51udtdfw5zL&ref=plSrch

>Anti-static brushes are basically all the same on amazon.

Except this one is better. The copper handle grounds the bristles to you, dispersing static.

Was wondering if theBoundless Audio Record Cleaner Brush - Vinyl Cleaning Carbon Fiber Anti-Static Record Brush was any good

1 Record Cleaner Kit - Complete 4-in-1 Vinyl Cleaning Solution, Includes Velvet Record Brush, XL Cleaning Liquid, Stylus Brush and Travel Pouch! Will NOT Scratch Your Records! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DVSTBXM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_1dRgDb9JCM4WA

I use compressed air (computer duster, no residue) to clean the brush and get the dust off the LP that the brush leaves in a line. I've found [this] (http://www.amazon.com/STANTON-MAGNETICS-Record-Cleaner-Kit/dp/B00006I5UH) liquid solution to be great in reducing static and therefore dust accumulation. I've spent a fortune on that duster shit but I think it's worth it in the long run.

Devoid of pop? Like Ice Cube?

But seriously though. Running your records through a cleaner first thing (before you even spin them the first time) for an initial cleaning, and then using a carbon fiber brush before every needle drop will go a long way towards eliminating those annoying pops.

A Spin-Clean kit and a $10 carbon fiber brush are very worthwhile investments for long-term enjoyment of this hobby.

Try one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Milty-Zerostat-Anti-Static-Gun-Blue/dp/B0033SHDSS

they're very effective in my opinion.

https://www.amazon.com/Professional-Archivist-TergiKleen-Tergitol-based-Concentrate/dp/B019YI38Z2

mix with ddistilled water. Better yet, but a bottle of tergitol or triton x100

You dilute it so much that it costs practically nothing. I dilute 1ml of triton into 1L of water.

Not sure how pure tergikleen is, but I'm sure it still ends up cheap

I use the zerostat. It's not at all perfect, but it does help here in the winter months.

Instead of a RCM, buy this and a cheap shop vac, if you don't have one already. Find any old broken turntable from Goodwill and use it as a lazy suzan. This setup works even better than an RCM. Make your own cleaning fluid using 0.8x distilled water, 0.2% isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher), and 0.004x surfactant (I use one tiny drop of dish soap per 250ml). Use a cheap brush to spread the fluid, I like this one. The SP-3 is a legendary integrated amplifier. A phono stage is not a complex circuit. Much like modern DACs, hugely overpriced units are a profit center for companies marketing to those who don't know what's going on inside the chassis.

I use the following cleaner and liquid, it works really well:

https://www.amazon.com/Record-Cleaning-Static-Records-Cleaner/dp/B07BJMBM2F

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B017U7LK40

We use an antistatic gun. Like this one

Milty 5036694022153 Zerostat 3 Anti-Static Gun, Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0033SHDSS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_EOGYDb477EMAF


Works like a charm to prevent the powder from sticking to the sides of the vial

http://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Styl-72311-Stylus-Cleaning/dp/B00C77D6DW

Good price and will do the trick!

Although I don't personally use one, I've heard good things about the Zerostat 3

I bought this one and it seems to give my vinyl a good cleaning...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00C5N0CTY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Which method/tool for cleaning is better out of the following two options:

Vinyl Vac

Spin Clean

If $50 is more in your price range, my neighbor has one of these and likes it. http://amzn.to/2hmKXSS - and there are other sellers there selling it for a few bucks less (about $44).

That would suggest a lot of static. Maybe use some kind of static remover like this https://www.amazon.co.uk/Milty-Zerostat-3-Anti-Static-Gun/dp/B0033SHDSS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1521899808&sr=8-1&keywords=static+gun

Anyone have thoughts on a knock off like this one

Vinyl Styl makes the same sort of device for a bit cheaper. It's called the Deep Groove record washer. Looking on Amazon, there's also another similar device called the Big Fudge Record Friend, which seems more in line with the design of the Spin Clean.

But you could also go the Squeaky Clean RCM route if you want to get into vacuum cleaning instead. It'll run a little more and you need to provide a shop vac, but you won't have to clean in batches that way, and you can likely get a small, cheap shop vac for under 50 bucks at a hardware store or even Walmart.

I just bought a stylus cleaning brush, after using it I noticed more cracks and pops coming from my records, the music sounds fine, it´s just the surface noise. I have an AT95E and it didn´t use to sound that way, I tried cleaning my records with distiled water + alcohol + microfiber cloth and it didn´t make any change.

Did I damaged the stylus or is it static + dust? I don´t have a Zerostat gun so I can´t be sure about the static part.

Thanks.

The audioquest one is supposed to be one of the best.


I cheaped out and bought the Boundless one from Amazon based on reviews and have no complaints.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071DWG4C8/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_2Dd1DbHK7VEFR


I also bought this basic cleaning kit. I was looking at the spin clean and the record doctor but most of my vinyl is new and this seems to do the job.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DVSTBXM/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_EFd1DbJX72NPB

This is what I use, in combination with a carbon fiber/nonstatic brush: https://www.amazon.ca/Stanton-Magnetics-Record-Cleaner-Kit/dp/B00006I5UH

Also, as cartridge12 says below, check/adjust your cart and tonearm, and anti-skating.

From your description it sounds like it is too damaged for this to work but always worth a shot.

Anyone have experience with this Boundless Audio brush (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071DWG4C8/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A3EE0NSOGXQKDJ&psc=1)? Can't seem to find any info on it besides the Amazon reviews.

After a wet clean, also use a record brush - I spin outward to get the dust off the record, then a second go round inward touching the spindle to discharge static.
I recently went to using this brush and no longer have the occasional static after playing a side.

However if you're in a really dry climate, you'll need to go to a Milty.

I used one of these during my previous job in a lab. It worked great for eliminating static, but may not be the solution you're looking for.

I'm not /u/pyroglass, but I use one of those anti-static brushes you can get off Amazon. It supposedly cleans the grooves of the records better than a micro-fiber cloth. I usually use both. First the cloth for the "heavier" dust or such, then finish it off with the brush :)

Or you could just buy the vinyl washer... (yes such a thing exists). I've never cleaned my with and liquids. Too scared it'd harm the records.

The record can also be warped or scratched. Or maybe the weight on the arm that holds the cartridge/stylus needs to be adjusted? When I first got my record player the weight was too "back heavy" so the stylus would sometimes hover over the record for just a very brief moment but just enough for the stylus to jump out of the groove and do a little skip.

here it is on amazon for $100.
http://www.amazon.com/MILTY-ZEROSTAT-ANTI-STATIC-GUN-BLUE/dp/B0033SHDSS

My Zerostat goes rat a tat tat. Why are you resisting? A quick hundo on Amazon and your static is gone.

Canned air for small pieces of lint/dust. Otherwise a record brush for big jobs and fingerprints.

THAT is where the rca dishwasher or similar can come in handy.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009K63IY/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484235948&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=rca+discwasher&dpPl=1&dpID=41MjHt37sWL&ref=plSrch

Time to add a Zerostat OP: https://smile.amazon.com/Milty-5036694022153-Zerostat-Anti-Static-Blue/dp/B0033SHDSS/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=zerostat&qid=1565749682&s=gateway&sr=8-3

AI #6 cleaning formula

MoFi cleaning brush

Zerostat 3

Joanna Newsom - Divers

I just read this which was posted yesterday and plan to pick up the Spin-Clean system.

Non-mobile: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004MG9YYQ/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1427659444&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX110_SY165_QL70&keywords=in+the+grove+record+cleaner

^That's ^why ^I'm ^here, ^I ^don't ^judge ^you. ^PM ^/u/xl0 ^if ^I'm ^causing ^any ^trouble. ^WUT?

What about this? https://www.amazon.com/Vinyl-Vac-Record-Vacuum-Attaches/dp/B014X2SXY0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484781005&sr=8-1&keywords=vinyl+vacuum

Best I could find it's not the same brand, but it's the exact same product.