Vinyl records are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic. Over time, vinyl records can become dirty and dusty, which can affect the sound quality. Cleaning vinyl records can help to remove dirt and dust and improve the sound quality.
Can water damage vinyl records?
Water itself does not damage vinyl records. However, tap water contains impurities, such as minerals and limescale, that can damage vinyl records. These impurities can leave behind residue in the grooves of the record, which can cause playback problems.
What kind of water is safe to use on vinyl records?
The best water to use on vinyl records is distilled water or deionized water. These types of water have been purified to remove impurities. You can also use bottled spring water, but avoid using tap water.
How to clean vinyl records with water
To clean vinyl records with water, you will need:
- A microfiber cloth
- A spray bottle filled with distilled or deionized water
- A soft brush
Instructions:
- Wipe the record with the microfiber cloth to remove any loose dirt or dust.
- Spray the record with the distilled or deionized water.
- Use the soft brush to gently scrub the record in a circular motion.
- Wipe the record dry with the microfiber cloth.
Tips for preventing water damage to vinyl records
To prevent water damage to vinyl records, you can take the following precautions:
- Store your records in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid getting your records wet.
- If your records do get wet, dry them immediately with a soft cloth.
- Do not use harsh chemicals to clean your records.
Conclusion
Water itself does not damage vinyl records. However, tap water contains impurities that can damage vinyl records. The best water to use on vinyl records is distilled or deionized water. You can also use bottled spring water, but avoid using tap water. To clean vinyl records with water, you can use a microfiber cloth, a spray bottle, and a soft brush. To prevent water damage to vinyl records, store them in a cool, dry place and avoid getting them wet.
