Record Care FAQs

Will do. Nitty Gritty is our go-to line of record cleaning machines. The entry-level model costs about $350. It’s fully manual, which means that you manually apply the fluid and scrub the record. After scrubbing, you engage the vacuum to remove the muck. Automatic models start around $600. The additional cost will get you things like automatic fluid application, scrubbing, rotation and vacuuming. There is no faster, more thorough method for cleaning records, so if you have a lot of records and plan on obtaining many more, this sort of machine might be worth your while.

I don’t think I need a record cleaning machine. What are some other options?

There are many other fantastic options for you. Let’s begin our discussion with enzymatic cleaners. Enzymatic cleaners are typically more labor-intensive, but they do a great job. Usually you’d apply the fluid, scrub the record, let the fluid sit for a while to work its magic, then rinse the record off with distilled water. Most folks let the record air-dry after this process. You can use a dish rack or the like. It’s a bit of a headache, but your records will appreciate it. Some of the most praiseworthy lines include Disc Doctor, LAST, Mobile Fidelity, and Audio Intelligent, to name a few. Their recommended methods vary, so you’ll have to look into what each manufacturer advises for their respective products.

Ooof. That sounds a bit laborious. Isn’t there anything more simple?

Yes! That’s the great thing about Needle Doctor. We carry a huge variety of products that cater to the needs of a huge variety of customers. We have a bunch of affordable records cleaning kits, such as the classic Discwasher D4. This kit includes a brush and fluid. You apply the fluid to the brush, then wipe the record off with it. It’s a snap. Many such kits include alcohol-based fluids, so they dry within seconds and your record is ready to be spun. Alcohol-based cleaners are not abrasive if used within reason. You don’t need to clean a record with fluid each time you play it.

So what about routine maintenance?

If you feel that your records are reasonably clean and you just want to keep them that way, get a carbon-fiber brush. These are designed just to scoop the dust off the disc before each play. They’re quick, handy and effective if wet-cleaning is not called for in your circumstance. Everyone should have one these lying around!