Cleaning old records

[Oldlistener50]

I've been finding an occasional treasure trove of old LPs at the local Goodwill. Got some great 70's albums for next to nothing.

I use a DAK record cleaning brush which helps, but some of these are really scratchy. Should I invest in a wet vacuum record cleaner? That's my guess but wanted to get some opinions.

How can I tell if an album is damaged to the point where it should not be played (I don't want to damage my stylus)?

Thanks!

 

[bikdav]

Here Is What I Did.

You are not going to damage a stylus playing a scratchy record. So, wipe that off your worry list. As far as cleaning records is concerned, I aquired some very filthy records some time ago. I just used cold water and some dishwashing liquid, cleaned them with a flannel cloth,and let them air dry. They were quite listenable after that. Yes I know, it's not the audiophile way. But, it worked great for me.

 

[TLS Guy]

You are not going to damage a stylus playing a scratchy record.

You most certainly can damage a stylus playing damaged records, not so much the stylus, but the suspension, which is part of the stylus assembly. In general the more expensive and better the cartridge the more easily it will be damaged by records in poor condition. I have to be very careful with my Deccas.

You should never play badly damaged and pitted records. Those need disposal.

Also cigarette and other goo, will build up on a stylus and need periodic removal, with alcohol.

 

[Bruins44]

I've read good reviews on the "Spin Clean Record Washer" for $80. It is a cheaper solution to the vacuums.

Does anyone have direct experience with this product?

Bruins44

 

[Volta]

I've read good reviews on the "Spin Clean Record Washer" for $80. It is a cheaper solution to the vacuums.

Does anyone have direct experience with this product?

Bruins44

I have the Spin Clean. Personally I cannot afford a vacuum style machine but for me, the Spin Clean has worked very well. Its a little bit labor intensive, in that it takes some time to clean a stack of records, but for the savings in money its worth it. I have not compared to anything else but it has cleaned my records well and I highly recommend it!