While the websites and shops are full of various record cleaners, there are also other ways to clean the dusted LPs or prepare them for playback. Here we’ll speak about how to clean records with soap and water. These things are present in any household, and they’re quite efficient for removing light contamination, dusty particles, threads. You probably won’t get the deep inner groove buildups often present in the old records, but the upper layer will be removed.

Another question on the mind of vinyl records owners, is it safe to wash vinyl records with dish soap and water? If you don’t apply the dish soap for a long time and rinse it thoroughly, there’s no harm to your records. However, pay attention to the labels — the graphics on them might be blurred.

In order to clean your LP records, you’ll need to have everything ready at hand (including covers or sleeves to store them afterward). Here’s a list of things you’ll need.

  • Label covers. Not necessary but ease the task of non-harming the middle part of the vinyls.
  • Clean sink or bowl.
  • Running water or 2-4 liters of still water.
  • A standard liquid or a block of a solid soap.
  • Soft brush.
  • Any soft cloth that’s good for soaking water.
  • A rack for drying the LPs. A dish rack can be used.

Steps for Cleaning Vinyl Records With Soap and Water

  1. Put the label covers on. Skip this step if you don’t have covers.
  2. Pour some water into the sink.
  3. Apply soap to the brush.
  4. Put a record into the sink, lift it, and brush gently on both sides.
  5. Rinse the record with clean water.
  6. Carefully wipe the record album with the towel.
  7. Put it on the rack to dry.