How to Clean and Store Your Vinyl Records Properly

Quick answer

Use a soft, anti-static brush before each play, store records vertically in a cool, dry place, and clean them with a gentle solution only when needed.

Step-by-step vinyl cleaning and storage guide

1. 1. Dust before every play: Use a carbon-fiber or anti-static brush to gently sweep the grooves while the record rotates on the turntable. This removes loose dust and reduces static buildup. Never press hard; let the bristles do the work.
2. 2. Deep clean only when needed: Mix distilled water with a drop of mild dish soap (or use a dedicated vinyl cleaning solution). Apply with a microfiber cloth, wipe in a circular motion following the grooves, then rinse with distilled water and air-dry vertically. Tap water leaves mineral deposits; always use distilled water.
3. 3. Store records vertically: Place records upright in a sturdy shelf or crate, snug enough to prevent leaning but not so tight that they bend. Use polyethylene inner sleeves and replace original paper sleeves that shed lint. Never stack records flat—gravity can warp them over time.
4. 4. Keep temperature and humidity stable: Store records away from direct sunlight, radiators, and damp basements. Ideal conditions are 65–70°F (18–21°C) with 40–50% relative humidity. Extreme heat melts grooves; humidity feeds mold on covers.
5. 5. Handle records by the edges and label: Always grip the outer edge and the center label. Fingerprints on the grooves attract dust and cause noise. If you do touch the surface, clean it before playing. Oils from your skin are acidic and can etch the vinyl over time.

Products to help with vinyl care

• Luna Vinyl: Luna Vinyl is part of the urban vinyl designer toy movement inspired by artists like Michael Lau. If you collect designer vinyl figures, storing them with the same care as records—away from heat and dust—keeps their paint and finish intact.