Question: How often should I clean my records and stylus?

Answer: Keeping your vinyl and turntable in pristine condition not only guarantees the best sound from your system, it also prolongs their lifespan. Audio-Technica has developed a selection of cleaning products to ensure that you’ve got the correct tools to care for your turntable’s components and your favorite records. Some people clean their records and stylus before and after each use to maximize the performance and experience.

Here is a rundown of Audio-Technica’s range of cleaning products.

For regular use

AT6011a – This vinyl brush has two rows of carbon fiber bristles, which reach into the vinyl grooves to lift and displace dust/debris. This can be used frequently, for those who keep on top of their vinyl.

AT6013a – Similar to the AT6011a, this vinyl cleaner has a row of carbon fiber bristles to lift and displace dust/debris, a velvet center to catch the resultant dust/debris, then a second row of carbon fiber bristles to displace the static charge built up by the velvet. This is also suitable for enthusiasts who clean a record before every play.

AT6012 - This is a record cleaning kit. You put a drop or two of AT634a anti-static fluid in each hole on the top of the Sonic Broom then slowly rotate in the direction of the arrow on the broom’s side to remove dust/debris. This gives a more thorough cleaning, which is good for old/second-hand vinyl or perhaps an inherited collection.

AT617a – This stylus cleaning gel is used on the stylus itself. Dip the tip in once or twice between records, and it will remove dust/debris from the stylus.

For occasional use

AT607a – This stylus cleaner is applied when special attention is needed. If you play a record a few times in a row, the friction between the stylus and vinyl causes the grooves to get warm, softening the vinyl. Some of the soft vinyl will transfer onto the stylus and, as it cools, it hardens on the tip. This can be prevented by allowing the vinyl to cool for about 30 mins between each listen. If the stylus has some vinyl residue that has solidified on the tip, the AT607a fluid will eat away at this vinyl residue deposit to remove it.

You can find additional helpful information on cleaning your records and styli in our previous blog posts:

How do I use Audio-Technica record cleaning products?

How do I clean the stylus on my Audio-Technica turntable?

Audio-Technica’s line of cleaning products covers many use cases, with different levels of cleaning to suit a wide range of care requirements. If you want to know more about vinyl care, you may contact our Audio Solutions Department.