If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, you know how important it is to keep your turntable in top condition.
One often overlooked aspect of turntable maintenance is the dust cover. Over time, dust covers can become scratched, scuffed, and cloudy, making it difficult to enjoy the full beauty of your turntable.
But fear not! With a little elbow grease and some simple tools, you can restore your dust cover to its former glory.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of restoring your turntable dust cover, step by step. So grab your microfiber cloth and let’s get started!
How To Restore Turntable Dust Cover
Step 1: Remove the Dust Cover
The first step in restoring your turntable dust 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 removed, place the dust cover on a flat surface, such as a table or workbench.
Step 2: Clean the Dust Cover
Before you begin polishing or removing scratches, it’s important to clean the dust cover thoroughly. Use a microfiber cloth and a solution of plain water and liquid dish detergent to wipe down both the inside and outside surfaces of the cover. Dry the cover with a towel or let it air dry completely for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Remove Scratches
If your dust cover has scratches, you can remove them using a variety of methods. For deeper scratches, use emery paper with lots of water and soap to smooth out the surface. For finer scratches, try using a plastic polish or a metal polish like Brasso or Silvo. Apply the polish with a microfiber cloth in overlapping circles until the scratches are no longer visible.
Step 4: Polish the Dust Cover
Once you have removed any scratches, it’s time to polish the dust cover to restore its shine. Use a plastic polish like Peek or Novus Plastic Polishes #1 and #2, or try using a slurry of baking soda for moderate scratches. Apply the polish with a microfiber cloth in overlapping circles until the surface is smooth and shiny.
Step 5: Clean Up
After polishing, make sure to wipe down the dust cover with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any residue from the polish. You can also use plain water to ensure that all residues are removed.
Assessing The Condition Of Your Dust Cover
Before you begin the restoration process, it’s important to assess the condition of your turntable dust cover. Take a close look at the cover and note any scratches, cracks, or discoloration. If the cover is severely damaged, it may not be possible to restore it completely.
Check for any stubborn spots that require attention. If there are any, use a soft sponge and warm water to gently remove the dirt or debris. Be careful not to scrub too hard as this can cause further damage to the cover.
If you notice scratches on the dust cover, determine how deep they are. Light scratches can usually be removed with plastic polish or baking soda slurry, while deeper scratches may require emery paper with lots of water and soap.
If your dust cover is discolored or cloudy, it may be due to UV damage. In this case, you may need to replace the dust cover entirely.
Cleaning The Dust Cover
Cleaning the dust cover of your turntable is an important step in restoring it to its former glory. Dust and debris can impede your vinyl record listening experience, so it’s important to keep the dust cover clean and free from scratches. The first step in cleaning the dust cover is to remove it from the turntable body. Once removed, use a microfiber cloth and a solution of plain water and liquid dish detergent to wipe down both the inside and outside surfaces of the cover. Dry the cover with a towel or let it air dry completely for 5 minutes.
If there are stubborn spots that require attention, use warm water and a soft sponge. Make certain you remove the dust cover from the turntable and use a soft sponge that is safe for use on acrylics. Once the dust cover is cleaned, use a very soft microfiber towel to blot it dry. Be certain 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. For deeper scratches, use emery paper with lots of water and soap to smooth out the surface. For finer scratches, try using a plastic polish or a metal polish like Brasso or Silvo. Apply the polish with a microfiber cloth in overlapping circles until the scratches are no longer visible.
Once you have removed any scratches, it’s time to polish the dust cover to restore its shine. Use a plastic polish like Peek or Novus Plastic Polishes #1 and #2, or try using a slurry of baking soda for moderate scratches. Apply the polish with a microfiber cloth in overlapping circles until the surface is smooth and shiny.
After polishing, make sure to wipe down the dust cover with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any residue from the polish. You can also use plain water to ensure that all residues are removed. By following these simple steps, you can restore your turntable dust cover to its original condition and enjoy your vinyl record listening experience without any obstructions.
Removing Scratches And Scuffs
If your turntable dust cover has scratches or scuffs, there are several methods you can use to remove them. One effective method is to use toothpaste, which contains certain chemicals that can clean away scratches and wear.
To use toothpaste, simply apply a small amount to the scratched area and rub it in gently with a microfiber cloth. Use a circular motion and apply light pressure, being careful not to press too hard and cause further damage. After a few minutes of rubbing, wipe away the excess toothpaste with a clean microfiber cloth. Repeat this process until the scratches are no longer visible.
Another method for removing deeper scratches is to use emery paper with lots of water and soap. Wet the surface of the dust cover and the emery paper, then gently rub the paper over the scratched area in a circular motion. Be sure to use a fine-grit emery paper and avoid pressing too hard, as this can cause further damage.
For finer scratches, you can try using a plastic polish or a metal polish like Brasso or Silvo. Apply the polish with a microfiber cloth in overlapping circles until the scratches are no longer visible.
Remember to always clean the dust cover thoroughly before attempting to remove scratches or scuffs, and be sure to wipe down the surface with a clean microfiber cloth after polishing to remove any residue. With these methods, you can restore your turntable dust cover to its former glory.
Polishing The Dust Cover
Polishing the dust cover is an important step in restoring its visual appeal. To do this, you will need a plastic polish like Peek or Novus Plastic Polishes #1 and #2. Alternatively, you can use a slurry of baking soda for moderate scratches.
To begin, apply a small amount of the polish to a microfiber cloth. Make sure to use overlapping circles when applying the polish to ensure that it covers the entire surface of the dust cover. Continue this process until the surface is smooth and shiny.
If you notice any stubborn scratches or blemishes, don’t worry. Simply apply more polish to the affected area and continue polishing until the blemish is no longer visible.
Once you have finished polishing, make sure to wipe down the dust cover with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any residue from the polish. This will ensure that your dust cover looks clean and sleek, enhancing the overall look of your turntable.
Remember, the more elbow grease you use in each step, the better the job will come out. You’ll never get out the deeper scratches, but depending on how bad it was when you started, it should improve immensely! So take your time and be patient, and soon enough you’ll have a beautifully restored dust cover for your turntable.
Preventing Future Damage To Your Dust Cover
Now that you have successfully restored your turntable dust cover, it’s important to take steps to prevent future damage. Here are some tips to help you protect your dust cover and extend its lifespan:
1. Keep it Clean: Regularly clean your dust cover to prevent the buildup of dirt and grime. Use a microfiber cloth and a solution of plain water and liquid dish detergent to wipe down both the inside and outside surfaces of the cover. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
2. Handle with Care: When opening and closing your turntable, be gentle with the dust cover. Avoid slamming it shut or applying too much pressure, as this can damage the hinges or cause scratches.
3. Store Properly: When not in use, keep your turntable dust cover stored in a safe place where it won’t get knocked over or damaged. Avoid stacking other items on top of it, as this can cause cracks or scratches.
4. Use a Cover: Consider using a separate protective cover for your turntable dust cover when transporting it or storing it for long periods of time. This can help prevent scratches and other damage.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your turntable dust cover stays in top condition for years to come. Remember, regular maintenance and care are key to keeping your record player and its accessories functioning properly.
