• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

How Do You Clean Record Jackets?

manderson

manderson

Active Member
We talk a lot about cleaning vinyl, but I haven't seen too many threads about cleaning the jacket, although I'm sure it's been discussed before. I'm finally going through all of the record albums in the basement and have found some that are literally like brand new and the vinyl doesn't even need cleaning, but the jackets have light mold or mildew. Otherwise, the jackets are also near mint. I'm wondering what is the best way to clean them. I can gently take it off with a fingernail, but I am hesitant to use a wet rag. Thought you folks might have some suggestions.
 
Register to hide this ad
I use Mr Clean dry eraser, Dampen one edge, Lightly. Go over cover, Again, Lightly. I was astounded the amount of dirt on these things. Laminated covers clean up easier than the just non laminated. Do not over due any liquid. I tested on some old ones I had around first. The dry eraser is the go to product for stylus cleaning around here, But thats another thread. Point is, There good to have around.
 
Make this your only album and you'll never have that problem. :D

phil_collins_no_jacket_required1_grande.jpg


But if your jackets have mold, you should definitely clean the vinyl anyway just to kill off any spores before they resprout into a new problem.
 
reydelaplaya said:
Make this your only album and you'll never have that problem. :D

But if your jackets have mold, you should definitely clean the vinyl anyway just to kill off any spores before they resprout into a new problem.
Click to expand...
Good one!

You are absolutely correct. I just played a Philips recording of Beethoven Symphony No. 9, Seiji Ozawa and the New Philharmonic recorded in 1974. It looked as mint as could be, but there were some nasty clicks and pops. Ran it through the VPI cleaner and wallah! Damn near perfect.
 
I use Pledge and a soft clean cloth. As been mentioned, it's amazing how dirty they can be!
Once cleaned, I insert all of them into a new poly outer sleeve to prevent further deterioration.
 
I use antibacterial hand wipes from the dollar store. Works great at cleaning and getting rid of musty smelling album covers!
 
I use a small amount of diluted Sporacidin (a commonly available detergent/enzyme mix). In extreme cases, I hit the covers in a sealed box with a ozone generator unit. Come out sterile and odor-free.
 
Thanks for all of the good suggestions. Wax with a soft cloth sounds interesting. I have the Renaissance Wax that is used for antique restoration. Think I'll give this a little test.
 
Ilikevinyl said:
I use antibacterial hand wipes from the dollar store. Works great at cleaning and getting rid of musty smelling album covers!
Click to expand...

Yes, me too. Very simple, cheap and effective way. However, I usually spray some ethyl alcohol over the wipes too.
 
On all my "new" reel-to-reel purchases, as well as LPs, I spray some Isopropyl alcohol onto a Bounty paper towel (just enough to slightly moisten the towel), then wipe the cover gently, followed by a dry towel.

When thoroughly dry, I use Simoniz paste wax, applied with some old soft cotton T-shirts cut into pieces for this specific purpose. Two or three thin coats, and the covers look pretty much like new, and feel good as well, nice and slick, which reduces friction on the jackets when storing them right up against each other. My LPs all have PVC outer sleeves, RTR tapes do not.

Currently listening to Joe Cocker (first album) on RTR as I perform this process.... :music:
 
PennyRider said:
My local record store uses a soft cloth with a bit of lighter fluid.
Click to expand...

Most lighter fluid (Ronsonal, etc.) is almost pure Naptha, and should not be used on or around plastic surfaces. It`s great for cleaning tape deck heads & tape paths, but I would use it with caution....
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom