Vinyl records are a popular way to listen to music, but they can be damaged by dust, dirt, and scratches. In order to keep your records in good condition, you may need to lubricate them. However, not all lubricants are safe for vinyl.
What Lubricant is Safe for Vinyl?
There are a few different lubricants that are safe for vinyl. These include:
- Silicone oil: Silicone oil is a clear, odorless, and non-toxic lubricant that is commonly used for vinyl records. It is non-conductive, so it will not damage the electrical signal that is being read by the stylus.
- White lithium grease: White lithium grease is another safe lubricant for vinyl records. It is a thicker lubricant than silicone oil, so it can help to protect the record from dust and dirt.
- Record cleaning fluid: Some record cleaning fluids contain lubricants that are safe for vinyl. However, it is important to read the label carefully to make sure that the fluid does not contain any harsh chemicals.
What Lubricants Should You Avoid?
There are a few lubricants that you should avoid using on vinyl records. These include:
- Petroleum jelly: Petroleum jelly is a thick, oily substance that can damage vinyl records. It is also a conductor, so it can damage the electrical signal that is being read by the stylus.
- WD-40: WD-40 is a multi-purpose lubricant that is often used to loosen stuck objects. However, it is not safe to use on vinyl records. WD-40 can damage the record’s surface and cause it to warp.
- Grease: Grease is a thick, oily substance that can damage vinyl records. It is also a conductor, so it can damage the electrical signal that is being read by the stylus.
Conclusion
There are a few different lubricants that are safe for vinyl records. These include silicone oil, white lithium grease, and some record cleaning fluids. It is important to avoid using lubricants that contain petroleum jelly, WD-40, or grease. By using a safe lubricant, you can help to keep your vinyl records in good condition and enjoy them for years to come.
Here are some additional tips for lubricating vinyl records:
- Use a small amount of lubricant. You only need a small amount of lubricant to lubricate a vinyl record. Too much lubricant can actually damage the record.
- Apply the lubricant evenly. Make sure to apply the lubricant evenly across the record. This will help to prevent the record from warping.
- Clean the record before lubricating it. Make sure to clean the record before lubricating it. This will help to remove any dirt or dust that could damage the record.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your vinyl records are properly lubricated and protected.
