How to Care for Your Vinyl Records: Tips from Elton John's Store

Quick Answer

To keep your vinyl records in top shape, handle them by the edges, clean them regularly with a carbon fiber brush, store them vertically in anti-static sleeves, and keep them away from heat and sunlight. These simple habits will preserve both the sound and longevity of your Elton John vinyl.

Vinyl records are more than just a music format; they're a tactile experience that connects you to the artist's vision. Whether you're spinning the remastered 'Elton John' LP or the live energy of 'Live From The Rainbow', proper care ensures your records sound great and last for decades.

In this guide, we'll share practical vinyl care tips straight from the Elton John Official Store's expertise. You'll learn the best practices for cleaning, handling, and storing your records, so your collection remains a source of joy for years to come.

Why Proper Vinyl Care Matters

Vinyl records are delicate. Dust, fingerprints, and improper storage can cause pops, crackles, and even permanent damage to the grooves. These imperfections not only affect sound quality but can also diminish the value of your collection, especially if you own limited editions or rare pressings.

By adopting a few simple habits, you can protect your investment and ensure that every playback is as crisp as the first. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to the format, understanding the basics of record care is essential.

• Always handle records by the edges and label to avoid fingerprints.
• Never touch the playing surface with your fingers.

Cleaning Your Records: The Right Way

Dust and dirt are the enemies of vinyl. A carbon fiber brush is your first line of defense. Before each play, gently sweep the brush across the grooves in a circular motion to remove surface dust. This simple step prevents particles from being ground into the vinyl by your stylus.

For deeper cleaning, consider a record cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Apply the solution sparingly and wipe in a circular motion, following the grooves. Avoid using tap water or household cleaners, as they can leave residues that attract more dirt.

• Use a carbon fiber brush before every play.
• For deep cleans, use a dedicated record cleaning solution.

Storing Vinyl: Keep It Vertical and Cool

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the flatness and integrity of your records. Always store vinyl vertically, like books on a shelf, to prevent warping. Avoid stacking records horizontally, as the weight can cause pressure and warping over time.

Keep your records in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Extreme temperatures can warp the vinyl and damage the sleeve artwork. Ideally, store them in a space with consistent temperature and moderate humidity.

• Store records vertically and avoid over-tightening on the shelf.
• Keep away from radiators, windows, and other heat sources.

Step-by-Step Vinyl Care Routine

1. Handle with Clean Hands: Always wash and dry your hands before touching records. Hold the record by its edges and the label area to avoid leaving fingerprints on the grooves. Checkpoint: Inspect the record surface for visible smudges before playing.
2. Brush Before Each Play: Use a carbon fiber brush to gently sweep the record's surface in a circular motion, removing dust and static. This prevents debris from being pushed into the grooves by the stylus. Checkpoint: If you see dust particles on the brush, they're not on your record.
3. Deep Clean Periodically: Every few months, use a record cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth to remove embedded dirt. Apply the solution to the cloth, not directly to the record, and wipe in a circular motion. Checkpoint: After cleaning, let the record air dry completely before playing.
4. Store in Anti-Static Sleeves: Replace the original paper inner sleeve with a anti-static polyethylene or rice paper sleeve. This reduces static and prevents paper scuffs during removal and insertion. Checkpoint: Always place the record back in its sleeve immediately after playing.
5. Keep Vertically and Cool: Store records upright on a shelf, not stacked flat. Keep them away from direct sunlight, radiators, and areas with high humidity to prevent warping. Checkpoint: Check your storage area's temperature and humidity regularly.

Vinyl Releases to Care For

• Elton John Remastered LP: Re-mastered in 2016 from the original tapes by Bob Ludwig at Gateway Mastering in Portland, Maine and the vinyl was cut by Sean Magee at Abbey Road. This high-quality remaster deserves careful handling to preserve its superior sound. Following proper cleaning and storage techniques ensures you enjoy every nuance of 'Your Song' and 'Border Song' for years.
• Live From The Rainbow LP: In May 1977, Elton John took the stage at London’s iconic Rainbow Theatre with percussion legend Ray Cooper for a six show residency. This live recording captures a unique moment in Elton's career. Proper care prevents surface noise that could distract from the intimate performance, keeping the live energy intact.

Caring for your vinyl records doesn't have to be complicated. With these simple steps, you can ensure that your Elton John records remain in excellent condition, providing you with a lifetime of listening pleasure. Remember, the key is consistency: clean before play, store properly, and handle with care.