VINYL CARE 101
Vinyl records aren’t just music — they’re living pieces of history. Every groove holds a story, a performance, and a little piece of magic that digital just can’t replicate. But vinyl is delicate, and time, dust, and careless handling can turn your favorite album into a hissy, crackling mess.
1. Hold it the right way
Always hold your records by the edges or center. Fingerprints and oils can dull the sound and attract dust.
You can follow few tips here
2. Keep it clean
Use a soft anti-static brush or microfiber cloth before and after each play to remove surface dust. For a deeper clean, use a record-safe cleaning solution — never household cleaners.
When cleaning vinyl records, always start with a dry brush to remove surface dust and static before playing. A carbon fibre brush is ideal, as it gently lifts particles without scratching the grooves. Make sure to brush in a circular motion, following the natural path of the record’s grooves.
For a deeper clean, use a dedicated vinyl cleaning solution or a mix of distilled water with a few drops of isopropyl alcohol. Apply the solution sparingly with a microfibre cloth, wiping gently along the grooves instead of across them. Avoid using household cleaners, as they can damage the record’s delicate surface.
If you play records often, consider investing in a record cleaning machine for professional-grade results. These devices use suction or ultrasonic technology to remove embedded dirt and restore sound quality. Regular cleaning not only improves playback but also extends the life of both your records and your turntable’s stylus.
3. Mind the sleeve
Keep your records in inner sleeves to protect them from dust and scratches. Paper sleeves can cause scuffs, opt for anti-static or polyethylene ones if you can.
You don’t want your vinyl rustling inside the jacket. There are a two different types that we would personally recommend:
Poly – Poly sleeves (or polypropylene) are more durable than paper sleeves, and while they're more expensive than paper options, they massively reduce the risk of damaging your records and are worth the investment if you have the extra £'s. It eliminates the issues of dust and scratchy paper damages when taking it in and out of the sleeve. It’s also much easier to remove and insert it into the album jacket. Some also have rounded corners making life easier.
Paper with poly lining – As you can imagine, these are a mixture of the above. The outside paper makes the sleeve much more rigid whilst the poly lining inside lets the vinyl slip in much smoother with a lower risk of scratching and collecting dust.
4. Store upright, never flat
Stacking records can warp them over time. Store your vinyls vertically, like books, in a cool, dry spot away from sunlight and heat sources. 
5. Don’t leave them on the turntable
When the music’s over, return your record to its sleeve. Leaving it out invites dust, scratches, and sun warps.READY TO START COLLECTING?
