How to Clean and Care For Vinyl Record Albums

Listening to music on vinyl is one of those things that … if you know, you know. Though sometimes the subject of debate, the sound of music played back on vinyl — as opposed to streaming or CDs — is regarded by enthusiasts and many audiophiles to be sonically superior.

Why Does Vinyl Sounds Better?

Because vinyl records or LPs, are analog recordings. As such they are not subject to the digital "compression" that — at least from a pure listening experience — can be the Achilles heel of formats such as MP3s. The playback of vinyl LPs is said to possess a richer, "warmer" sound — with greater depth, detail and nuance. Under best circumstances, it can truly create the audible sensation of having the performers right in your living room and playing directly in front of you.

But beyond the sonic wonder that can come from listening to a pristine recording played back on a high-end audio system, there’s something about the format that’s just magical — something compelling about the whole ritual of placing a record on the turntable and settling in for an intensive listening experience — all the while hyper-focusing on the album-cover art and perusing the liner notes.

Is Vinyl for You?

Make no mistake, this is a far cry from tapping your playlist to instantly listen to some tunes while you work out or go about your day. Vinyl is not a format for music on the go. This is about passion and commitment — and revering the craft and artisanship that went into the original performance, the production and the recordings.

If you're a long-time record aficionado, this is not news to you. But if you're just considering dipping your toe in the vinyl pool for the first time, there are things you should know — namely about the proper care, cleaning and handling of your sonic treasures. Something as simple as fingerprints and tiny scratches can essentially ruin a perfectly good recording. But don't be deterred. If quality sound is something that matters to you, the effort is well worth it.

How to Hold a Record Album

Some things concerning proper care are easy and obvious. Handle your records carefully and avoid touching the grooved surface with your fingertips. Hold the record by the edges and, if holding it in one hand, allow the edge to rest in the crook between your thumb and forefinger, supporting it from underneath with your middle finger in contact with the paper label and spindle hole.

A related pro tip has to do with the paper inner sleeve that's inside the album cover and contains the vinyl disc. The inner sleeve is traditionally there to help protect the record from fingerprints or abrasions but, if not handled carefully, the paper itself can leave small surface scratches when removing (or reinserting) the album from its sleeve.

This can be avoided by replacing the paper inner sleeves with archival anti-static ones. These specialized sleeves are made from a smooth, soft polyethylene that's far less likely than paper to cause wear or scratches. Some audiophile recordings already come with anti-static inner sleeves instead of the traditional paper but, for those that don't, they're available at a reasonable cost from audiophile-oriented vendors like Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs. It's the perfect way to pamper your most cherished LPs and keep them in pristine condition.

The Vinyl Record Resurgence

Like I said, not everyone agrees about the virtues of vinyl. For the record (see what I did there?) I’m a diehard vinyl devotee — some have gone so far as to say "addict" — so I’m most certainly biased. But I’m far from alone.

Let’s look at some recent numbers. According to TechSpot, in 2022 sales of vinyl LPs surpassed those of CDs for the first time in 35 years. (CDs first overtook record sales in 1987, about five years after the digital format was first introduced.) But the "antiquated" phono LP sold 41 million units, accounting for 71% of all physical audio media sold in that year.

Techspot goes on to talk about the "vinyl renaissance," saying that "the analog sound storage [format] is making an epic comeback," stating that "It's a piece of news that would have been unthinkable a decade ago, but it's happening: Vinyl record sales are poised to eclipse CDs in the near future."

So to borrow from a 1959 album title, "50 Million Elvis Fans Can’t Be Wrong." (And neither can the fans of Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Adele and Coldplay.)

Care and Storage of a Vinyl Collection

Yes, choosing to listen to music in this way is something of a commitment. And not to be taken lightly. Vinyl records can easily be damaged or compromised, resulting in clicks, pops, skips or even unplayability. Exercising some special care and handling is in order if you want to ensure your LPs will last and retain their sonic clarity.

There’s an array of products and technologies out there to help you do just that. But for the vinyl neophyte, it may seem like a daunting and confusing selection. There are simple manual systems for cleaning records, using microfiber brushes, pads and cleaning fluids. And there are automated record-cleaning machines — ultrasonic or vacuum-based cleaning systems — costing, in some cases, thousands of dollars.

Moreover, how you handle and store your LPs is critical. Improper storage, for example, or exposure to heat can result in warping — which also compromises playback and sound quality. So where to begin?

When Sound Was King

As mentioned, I’m vinyl-ly biased. So, in the interest of science, we sought the advice, wisdom and expertise of Kevin Moll, a former audio engineer and founder/owner of Skylabs Audio — a company that specializes in selling new vinyl pressings (new releases as well as modern reissues of classics) as well as restoring and selling high-end vintage gear from the "golden age" of HiFi audio.

Beginning in the 1960s — when high-quality "stereophonic" sound first came to the forefront — and reaching a zenith in the late ‘70s, brands like Marantz, Pioneer, Yamaha and Sansui were in a dead heat of "stereo wars." During that span, those brands and a few others were in a race to create the ultimate home listening experience — as well a wide range of powerhouse receivers, amplifiers, turntables and speakers the likes of which, in many ways, don’t have a true counterpart today.

This evolution took place along a parallel track with the rise of vinyl 33-1/3 albums as the mainstay of recorded music for consumers. It was also ushered along with the rise of youth culture and the nascent (and eventually immense) popularity of what is now termed "classic rock." However, as a format, vinyl was also the darling of demanding jazz and classical devotees who were in search of the best, truest sound reproduction possible. It's from these roots that the new resurgence of vinyl springs, as well as the emergence of retro-inspired enterprises like Kevin's Skylabs Audio.

Kevin is also something of an "audio influencer," being the creator and host of Skylabs Audio YouTube channel — a resource providing practical and understandable advice on all things analog and on the collecting and history of vintage audio. Here are highlights from our Q&A.

Album Cleaning FAQs

HGTV: For the vinyl newbies out there, could you talk a bit about the importance of cleaning LPs to ensure optimum sound — and safeguarding the condition and longevity of records?

Kevin Moll: It comes down to having the best experience with that format. Keeping your records clean can be a chore for some people, but it’s the number one thing that can keep your records sounding great. Good habits in cleaning, handling, and storing records will keep your records and turntable in good condition.

HGTV: What happens to records if you play them without ever cleaning them?

Kevin: Keeping your records and turntable clean is paramount. Vinyl records are not for everyone. Playing dirty records is not only going to sound bad, but it's also going to shorten the lifespan of your stylus. It’s really important for used records, but most new records need cleaning too. It will get rid of any manufacturing debris and reduce static. Both will make unwanted noise during playback.

HGTV: What are the main culprits of undesirable sound issues (e.g., clicks, pops, hiss, distortion, etc.) in vinyl LP playback?

Kevin: Dirty records. Records in poor condition. Improper cartridge tracking force. Worn stylus/needle. Static can also cause clicks and pops on a new record — especially in the winter when the humidity in your house is low. Warped records can also contribute to bad sound. People need to store records vertically and out of direct sunlight and away from heat.

HGTV: In terms of your own listening habits, what's your preferred protocol for playing an LP? How often do you recommend cleaning a record? Before each play? After each play? Other recommendations?

Kevin: The records I listen to have been ultrasonically cleaned. This is a deep cleaning method that has gotten more affordable in recent years. Once they have been cleaned this way and stored in a new poly inner sleeve, I usually only use an anti-static record brush on the side of the record I am about to play. It is also important to handle your records with clean hands, only touching them by the edges. Oils from your hands may not affect the record right away, but over time can attract dust and dirt affecting the sound quality down the road.

HGTV: Any tips for visually inspecting the LP before putting it on the turntable platter?

Kevin: I usually give it a once over to see if there is any visible damage. If I am looking at used records, the first place I look is the spindle hole in the center of the record. If it has a bunch of marks around the hole, it tells me the record was played a bunch and probably not handled with the most care from the original owner. It’s kind of like CARFAX for records.

HGTV: What about simple, manual cleaning methods? — e.g., Microfiber cleaning pad with cleaning solution, anti-static (dry) carbon-fiber brushes. Exotic stuff like goat-hair brushes? Ordinary microfiber rags? Is manual cleaning generally sufficient for most listeners? Or are record-cleaning machines or record washers worth the expense?

Kevin: To me, there are three solutions depending on where you are in your vinyl journey and collection. First (and cheapest): Start with the spray bottle and microfiber cloth — great for keeping dust down. Second: Consider a “spin clean” type record-bath cleaner. These can cost less than $100 and are better than a cloth at getting deeper into the record’s grooves. I think this is a great way to clean records. Cleans deeper than just a spray-on solution and microfiber cloth. This method will also reduce any static charge. Third: Ultrasonic cleaners. [These are] extremely good at getting deep down into the groove. This is the most expensive but unbelievably better than the first two. These cleaners have become more affordable in the past few years costing hundreds of dollars as opposed to thousands in the past. Personally, I would skip the vacuum cleaners as Ultrasonic cleaners have come down in price so much. I cannot recommend an Ultrasonic cleaner enough. To me, it is an absolute game-changer.

HGTV: What about record-cleaning solutions? There are a bunch of different ones out there. Do some leave residues that could impact sound?

Kevin: There are so many great solutions out there, just do some research to see what works for experienced record collectors. I would just avoid using household cleaners like Windex or water from the tap. I have also seen people online using wood glue or WD40! These can have adverse reactions to vinyl.

HGTV: Any specific ones or types you recommend?

Kevin: We have been making record cleaner at Skylabs for eight years using a combination of distilled water and 99% isopropyl alcohol and a surfactant*. No complaints or damage to records. You just do not ever want to put alcohol on a shellac-based 78 RPM record. Nothing wrong with saving some money and making your own! There are lots of recipes online — the simpler the better. (*Editor’s note: Surfactant is a substance that tends to reduce the surface tension of a liquid in which it is dissolved.)

HGTV: How important are stylus cleaning brushes/fluids?

Kevin: I think they’re very important. Even with an ultrasonic cleaner dust is going to find its way to your records and then to your stylus. Having a proper stylus brush is the best way to clean your stylus. Remember to always brush from the back to the front when cleaning your stylus.

HGTV: Any thoughts on record-restoration products and systems (e.g., Secret Chord's Record Restore system)?

Kevin: I am of the opinion that once a record is damaged, that's it. This system looks to be similar to using wood glue, but much safer on your records. I consider this a deep cleaning method and not so much a restoration.

HGTV: Could you talk a bit about the importance of, and your recommendations for, the proper storage of albums?

Kevin: Simple and important: Do not stack them horizontally. Keep them in a climate-controlled environment, out of the sun, away from heat — and dry.

HGTV: What are the most common mistakes or misconceptions when it comes to people new to collecting and listening to vinyl?

Kevin: I see this a bunch with inexperienced/new collectors: Leaving their new records in a hot car. A record can warp in a matter of minutes if left in a hot car. This is usually a mistake someone makes only once. The other one is playing a new $50 record on a $50 suitcase record player and expecting to sound great. It won’t.

HGTV: Any notes about the quality of today's vinyl releases (180g, audiophile, etc.) vs. vintage LPs mass-produced in the '60s, '70s & '80s?

Kevin: To me a good pressing is a good pressing. It doesn't matter if it's 180 gram or not. My best advice is to look up the specific pressing on Discogs and see what the vinyl community has to say. That’s a huge community and a wealth of knowledge when it comes to documenting what pressings are good and what pressings you should avoid.

HGTV: Do you feel like vinyl LPs and collecting are here to stay (or, perhaps more accurately, back to stay) or is the recent and current resurgence of vinyl's popularity just a passing trend that will eventually fade? (i.e., will digital ever completely replace vinyl?)

Kevin: I think vinyl is safe for a long time. Both vinyl and digital have benefits the other cannot compete with. With digital it’s convenience, with vinyl it's the sound and experience. We have a huge amount of 15- to 25-year-olds buying records. There's a magic to analog audio playback that any music lover can hear, young and old. The experience of listening to your favorite band while holding a 12” piece of art — owning a physical record — is another huge component to the experience that's also shared by those young and old.

HGTV: For your own personal listening, do you listen most to vinyl, CD, MP3s or high-rez "lossless" digital files (FLAC, ALAC AIFF, etc.)?

Kevin: For convenience, I mostly stream music from Tidal or Spotify. Streaming music really has come a long way in sound quality. It's not like the old days of Napster and poor-quality MP3s. My favorite format is unfortunately also the most expensive and least portable and that is reel-to-reel tapes. I think it's safe to say there will never be a resurgence in the format on a consumer level due to the expense of the reels and the reel-to-reel decks.

HGTV: And finally, if you had to pick your top 5 records to listen to on vinyl, what might they be?

Kevin: That would be the Skylabs vinyl starter pack! Five records from the glory days of vinyl and analog recordings:

• Pink Floyd: Dark Side of the Moon
• Fleetwood Mac: Rumors
• Led Zeppelin: Led Zeppelin IV
• The Beatles: Rubber Soul
• Boston: Boston

Do’s and Don’ts for Cleaning Vinyl Records

To recap, here are the top tips for taking care of your vinyl collection.

• Handle Vinyl Correctly: Make sure you have clean hands and only touch the edges of an album. Oils from your hands may not affect the record right away, but over time can attract dust and dirt affecting the sound quality down the road.
• Clean Albums Regularly: Keeping your vinyl clean will extend its lifespan and the lifespan of your record player’s stylus/needle.
• At the Minimum, Use Microfiber Cloth: There are several ways to clean vinyl records. At the very least, start with a solution made for cleaning vinyl records and microfiber cloth. To step it up, consider a “spin clean” type record-bath cleaner for about $100 to get deeper into the record’s grooves. Ultrasonic cleaners are extremely good at getting deep down into the grooves, but they are expensive.
• Don’t Use Household Cleaners on Vinyl: Do not use chemical solutions like glass cleaners, all-purpose cleaners or WD-40, you’ll ruin the albums.
• Don’t Use Tap Water: Chemicals in tap water can also negatively affect vinyl. Instead, use a solution made specifically for cleaning vinyl.
• Clean Your Turntable’s Stylus: Having a proper stylus brush is the best way to clean your stylus. Always brush from the back to the front when cleaning a stylus.