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How to Clean Old 78 & LP Records

Old 78 records and LPs are collectible items. The value of such items, though, works on a sliding scale, based on the current condition. Albums that are clean and well-maintained are more collectible. It is important to keep your old records free of dust and grime. Dust can cause scratches to the surface of the vinyl when entering or removing the record from its sleeve and can cause physical damage when trying to play it in a record player. This makes the proper technique important as you clean your old 78s and LP records.

Things You'll Need

Towel
Small soft paintbrush
Distilled bottle water
Dish washing soap
Two terry cloths

Instructions

- 1
  Gather your materials together. The bristles of your brush should be fine so that it will not scratch the records. Distilled bottle water does not contain the chemicals commonly found in tap water. Obtain dish washing soap that does not have fragrance chemicals, such as Joy. Purchase a finely soft terry cloth to clean the old 78 and LP records.
- 2
  Lay the record on top of the towel on a hard surface. Sweep the dust off lightly with the paintbrush. Turn the record over, holding by the sides. Brush the other side as well. Use a gentle sweeping motion, straight across the record.
- 3
  Pour a drop of the water onto the terry cloth. Add a dab of dish washing soap to the cloth and rub together. Use your finger to rub the soap solution over the old 78 and LP records in a straight motion. For example, wipe the record left to right in rows. Avoid getting the label wet.
- 4
  Dry the record completely before cleaning the other side. Use the second cloth and wipe in the same manner as Step 3. Turn the record over and repeat Step 3.

Record Collecting