Yes, it is generally recommended to clean a record before playing it. This is because dirt, dust, and other contaminants can build up on the grooves of a record over time, and this can cause the record to sound noisy and distorted. Cleaning the record can remove these contaminants and improve the sound quality.
Here are some of the benefits of cleaning a record before playing it:
- Reduced surface noise: Surface noise is the pops, clicks, and other unwanted noises that you hear when you play a record. Cleaning the record can remove dirt, dust, and other contaminants that can cause surface noise.
- Improved sound quality: Cleaning the record can improve the overall sound quality by reducing surface noise and making the music sound more clear and detailed.
- Extended record life: Cleaning the record can help to extend the life of the record by preventing dirt, dust, and other contaminants from wearing down the grooves of the record.
There are a few different ways to clean records. You can use a dry record brush, a wet record cleaning solution, or a record cleaning machine.
To clean a record with a dry record brush, simply brush the record in a circular motion, starting from the outside and working your way in. Be sure to brush both sides of the record.
To clean a record with a wet record cleaning solution, apply a small amount of the solution to a microfiber cloth or record brush. Wipe the record in a circular motion, starting from the outside and working your way in. Be sure to rinse the record with clean water after cleaning it with the solution.
To clean a record with a record cleaning machine, follow the instructions that come with the machine. Most record cleaning machines use a combination of distilled water and a specially formulated cleaning solution to clean records.
Once you have cleaned your records, be sure to dry them completely with a clean microfiber cloth. This will help to prevent the records from becoming sticky.
Here are some additional tips for cleaning records:
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on records, as these can damage the record’s surface.
- If the record surface is very dirty, you can clean it with a mild soap and water solution. Be sure to rinse the record thoroughly with clean water after cleaning it with a soap and water solution.
- Air dry the record completely before putting it back in its sleeve.
- Store vinyl records in a cool, dry place.
By following these tips, you can keep your vinyl records clean and sounding their best for many years to come.
