Are you tired of dust and debris ruining your vinyl record listening experience?
Keeping your turntable’s dust cover clean is essential to maintaining top performance. But how do you clean it without scratching it?
In this article, we’ll explore the best methods for cleaning your turntable’s dust cover, including using a compressed air duster and warm water with a soft sponge. We’ll also discuss how to remove scratches using Brillianize or Novus Scratch Remover.
Don’t let a dirty dust cover ruin your vinyl experience – read on to learn how to keep it clean and shiny.
How To Clean Turntable Cover
The first step in cleaning your turntable cover is to remove it from the turntable body. This can usually be done by opening the lid and pulling the cover away from the turntable. Once you have removed the cover, it’s important to remove any dirt and debris from the surface of the cover.
One of the best ways to clear dust off the top of the dust cover is to use a compressed air duster. This is often used to clean computer keyboards and can be found at most office supply stores. Simply use the duster to blow dust off the cover, being careful not to scratch the surface.
If there are stubborn spots that require attention, use warm water and a soft sponge. Make sure you remove the dust cover from the turntable and use a soft sponge that is safe for use on acrylics. Once you have cleaned the dust cover, use a very soft microfiber towel to blot it dry. Be sure to avoid wiping, which may scratch the cover’s surface.
If you have scratches on your dust cover, you may use Brillianize or Novus Scratch Remover and follow their product instructions carefully. These products are specifically designed for cleaning and restoring acrylic surfaces, including turntable covers.
Why Cleaning Your Turntable Cover Is Important
Cleaning your turntable cover is essential for maintaining the quality of your vinyl record listening experience. Dust and debris can accumulate on the surface of the cover and obstruct the stylus’s contact with the groove of your record. This can result in poor sound quality and even damage to your records and stylus.
In addition, accumulated layers of dust can affect the performance of your turntable by getting inside its parts. This can cause malfunctions and even permanent damage to your turntable, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Regularly cleaning your turntable cover can prevent these issues and prolong the lifespan of your turntable. It also helps to keep your turntable looking new and well-kept, preserving its value and aesthetic appeal.
Investing in a good quality dust cover for your turntable is also important for ultimate protection against accidental dents, scratches, and liquids. Not only does it provide physical protection for your turntable, but it also prevents dust and debris from accumulating on the surface of your cover and affecting the performance of your turntable.
Tools And Materials Needed For Cleaning
To clean your turntable cover, you will need the following tools and materials:
1. Compressed air duster – This is an effective tool for blowing dust off the cover without scratching the surface.
2. Soft sponge – Use a soft sponge that is safe for use on acrylics to remove any stubborn spots on the dust cover.
3. Warm water – You will need warm water to clean the dust cover.
4. Microfiber cloth – Use a very soft microfiber towel to blot the dust cover dry after cleaning.
5. Brillianize or Novus Scratch Remover – If your dust cover has scratches, you may use these products to restore and clean the acrylic surface. Follow the product instructions carefully when using these products.
It’s important to avoid using abrasive materials, ammonia, or brushes when cleaning your turntable cover, as they can scratch or damage the surface of the cover. Always use gentle materials and be careful not to apply too much force when cleaning your turntable cover.
Method 1: Using A Compressed Air Duster
One effective method for cleaning your turntable cover is to use a compressed air duster. This is a great option for removing dust and debris from the surface of the cover without scratching it. To use this method, you will need a can of compressed air duster, which can typically be found at most office supply stores.
Start by removing the dust cover from the turntable body and placing it on a clean, flat surface. Hold the can of compressed air duster upright and use short, controlled bursts of air to blow away any dust or debris on the surface of the cover. Be careful not to hold the can too close to the cover, as this can cause the air to come out too forcefully and potentially damage the surface.
If there are any stubborn spots that are not easily removed with the compressed air, you can use a soft sponge and warm water to gently clean the surface. Again, be sure to avoid scrubbing or wiping too hard, as this can cause scratches on the surface of the cover.
Once you have finished cleaning the dust cover with the compressed air duster and/or sponge, be sure to let it dry completely before placing it back onto the turntable body. Using a soft microfiber towel to blot it dry is recommended, as wiping may cause scratches on the surface.
Method 2: Using Warm Water And A Soft Sponge
If you prefer to use a more natural method for cleaning your turntable cover, you can use warm water and a soft sponge. To start, wet the sponge with warm water and gently wipe the surface of the cover. Be sure to use a sponge that is safe for use on acrylic surfaces to avoid scratching the cover.
If there are any stubborn spots or stains, you can add a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid to the warm water. Mix the solution until it forms enough of a lather and then use the sponge to clean the cover in a circular motion. Avoid using too much pressure or scrubbing too hard as this may damage the surface of the cover.
Once you have finished cleaning, rinse the sponge with clean water and use it to remove any soap residue from the cover. Then, use a very soft microfiber towel to blot the cover dry. It’s important to avoid wiping as this may cause scratches on the surface of the cover.
Removing Scratches With Brillianize Or Novus Scratch Remover
Acrylic turntable covers are prone to scratches, which can be unsightly and distracting. Fortunately, there are products available that can help remove these scratches and restore the cover’s surface. Two of the best products for this task are Brillianize and Novus Scratch Remover.
Brillianize is a plastic cleaner and polish that is specially formulated to clean and protect acrylic surfaces. It is gentle on the surface, yet powerful enough to remove scratches and other blemishes. To use Brillianize, start by cleaning the surface of the dust cover with warm water and a soft sponge. Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a small amount of Brillianize to a soft microfiber cloth. Rub the cloth gently over the scratched area, using circular motions. Continue rubbing until the scratch is no longer visible. Finally, buff the surface with a clean microfiber cloth to restore its shine.
Novus Scratch Remover is another excellent product for removing scratches from acrylic surfaces. It comes in three different grades, depending on the severity of the scratch. Novus #2 Fine Scratch Remover is designed for removing fine scratches and haziness, while Novus #3 Heavy Scratch Remover is best for deep or heavy scratches. To use Novus Scratch Remover, start by cleaning the surface of the dust cover with warm water and a soft sponge. Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a small amount of Novus Scratch Remover to a soft microfiber cloth. Rub the cloth gently over the scratched area, using circular motions. Continue rubbing until the scratch is no longer visible. Finally, buff the surface with a clean microfiber cloth to restore its shine.
It’s important to note that both Brillianize and Novus Scratch Remover should be used with caution, as they can potentially damage certain types of coated plastics. Always test these products on a small, inconspicuous area before using them on your turntable cover. Additionally, it’s important to follow the product instructions carefully to ensure that you achieve the best results possible. With a little bit of care and attention, you can restore your turntable cover to its former glory and enjoy your music without any distractions from unsightly scratches.
Tips For Maintaining A Clean Turntable Cover
Maintaining a clean turntable cover is important to ensure the longevity of your turntable and to enhance your listening experience. Here are some tips to help keep your turntable cover clean:
1. Use a dust cover: When not playing records, keep your turntable covered with a dust cover to reduce the amount of dust and debris that collects on the cover.
2. Clean regularly: Regularly clean your turntable cover with a soft sponge and warm water. This will help prevent dirt and debris from building up on the surface.
3. Avoid using harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your turntable cover, as they can scratch or damage the surface.
4. Use a soft microfiber cloth: Use a soft microfiber cloth to blot the cover dry after cleaning. Avoid wiping, as this can also scratch the surface.
By following these tips, you can maintain a clean and scratch-free turntable cover, ensuring that your turntable continues to perform at its best for years to come.
