Those white towels are actually called laparotomy sponges and are used in surgery...the blue loop is xray detectable. Yes wash them 1st and they are awesome, I polish my cars with them.
@@tomlayman3141 yep. We do multiple counts. Before surgery, during surgery, closing, and final. If counts don’t match and a thorough search doesn’t reconcile the count, then we X-ray.
No. It’s because people boof these trying to get them across the border so border agents needed a more efficient ways to catch the mules illegally bringing these towels into our country
Great video and presentation of the spin clean. I have been using one for years now and highly recommend it. I also use the dish washing rack to air dry after the cloths. One extra step I do is use a spray bottle with distilled water after removing the record from the spin clean to make sure all the cleaning fluid has been removed. It also gets any particles that may have been left behind out of the grooves.
We sell the Spin Clean and use it for cleaning all of our records. Great cleaning system: affordable, low-tech and efficient! By the way, this video is one of the best I've seen explaining the Spin Clean. Thanks!
This is actually a pretty good piece of kit.. Cleaned up my 40 year old copy of Closer.. Joy Division and it had plenty of annoying pops and crackles.. Its sounds amazing the difference after cleaning it properly.. No pops, no crackles, no skips nothing. Bit overpriced in England but you get great results.
Just did my first batch. The instructions were pretty clear, but I wanted a visual run-through. You are right about the fun to be had listening while cleaning more!
Excellent video about the Spin Clean. I have cleaned many records with the Spin Clean with excellent results. I prefer using scratch resistant micro fiber cloths to the cloths that come with the Spin Clean. I dry the record by laying it on a micro fiber cloth and wiping the side facing up, then, I turn the record over and wipe the other side which is mostly dry from having lay on the micro fiber cloth. In my experience, Spin Clean has always cleaned records superbly. I recommend the Spin Clean highly.
Bought this. It did an excellent job cleaning my old records. One concern; Records in dirty water. I clean only 10 or 15 then change out the water. Cleaning solution and distilled water are cheap enough that it's still an inexpensive method that will rejuvenate your collection.
Just used mine for the first time today. OUTSTANDING cleaner. I recommend an initial cleaning with the Spin Clean to get oils off the record followed by Tight Bond 2 for the deep clean, then another cleaning with the Spin Clean. That process gets used records pretty close to their new state. Great video!
Very nice, Bret! It's a good product for most people - thought I do recommend putting the records in new sleeves so 1. Paper bits don't get back into the record/recontaminate 2. So you know you cleaned the record and you don't have to reclean.
Thanks Kris. Yeah, the intent was to put in new sleeves as I clean. I will definitely be doing that as I start working through the collection. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the encouraging review. Just placed an order on Amazon for the clear plastic “anniversary edition” with the additional large sized bottle of cleaning fluid and new anti-static record brush. Looking forward to cleaning up my collection of 80s LPs and 12”s. 😀 (Which includes my original 80s pressings of Still, Closer, and Unknown Pleasures incidentally).
Bret, just one tip I’ve learned whilst using this piece of kit. You don’t need to wipe off that excess water off after spinning. What I do is just leave the record propped up between the brushes for 10 mins to let most of the water drain naturally. Then when it comes to wiping down you only have a few small blobs of water - which preserves your cloths from getting too sodden too quickly.
***** / ***** - I actually do clean off the brushes with distilled water. There is a huge difference from when the record first goes in - than from when it comes out - that 'muck' is actually settling down to the bottom of the basin, rather than back into the grooves. It's a great method for cleaning, but if soap and water works for you, then cool. Thanks for stopping by.
I thought I bought out supplies from Disc washer 30+ years ago, but what do I know. When I do play an LP the record is from the '60s thru the '80s only for transfer to a CD for my own personal use; and I still love the old Disc Washer products. In the '70s I learned how to take care of LPs and they sound as good today as when they were new. I am interested in learning more about Spin Clean.
Man, do I wish I knew about this back in the day (70's). We used a version of that first velvet pad thing. I bet it wouldn't hurt to do more revolutions.
I've also been using the Spin Clean for a few years now with good results. However I also rinse the record in distilled water after cleaning it with the Spin Clean in order to remove the cleaning solution and perhaps any remaining dirt in the grooves. I use another similar but cheaper record cleaning trough for the rinsing (Knosti brand) and lastly, I vacuum dry the record with a device that connects to a household vacuum cleaner (KAB EBV-1 from KAB Electro Acoustics). The extra devices are relatively inexpensive.
Love my Spin Clean. I recently transformed mine into a ultrasonic cleaner by attaching a small palm sander on the side close to bottom with velcro and turn it on. It even turns the lp automatically as well. There solution really cleans when ultrasonic waves are blasting the dirt out of the grooves! Then when you just need to clean manually just pull the palm sander off. Great product!
I picked up the brown "anniversary" edition. I wish I had the yellow one, as it would be easier to tell how dirty the water is in the basin. Nice video.
I just started using the vinyl cleaner on my collection. I have a box of 78's I got years ago from my grandmother. They were very dirty. I used the vinyl cleaner on them and they sound incredible. My collection of LP, 45's and 78's is over a few thousand and growing. I'll be using this vinyl cleaner for my collection. Now if I can just get someone to catalog everything.
Thanks for the info, I actually purchased the spin clean after watching your video. It may be over priced but it works. I appreciate your efforts and your t-shirt...
Funny. Those towels are actually laparotomy sponges used to pack inside the body cavity during open surgical procedures. I have a ton of them (sterile too) in my basement!
Been thinking about getting one of these. Tried using wood glue and although it works, it is incredibly time consuming and very easy to screw things up. Besides, my records aren't that filthy that I need the wood glue treatment anyway. I'm with you on the dishwashing thing. I can easily see myself spending a whole afternoon cleaning records and relaxing. Thanks for the video.
Thanks Jeff. Yeah, I hear you - I don't usually buy / or own any records that would be in dire need of resorting to the wood glue method... and besides, when I bring home a bag of records, I want to clean them right away and get them on the turntable! I don't have the time to wait hours for glue to dry! :)
I haven't properly cleaned my records in years...some have never been cleaned! I have been debating on one of these or holding out for a vpi...this seems pretty adequate. Thanks for the demo!
Hey Jeff! Man, I think it's definitely the way to go. I just can't afford a VPI - and these Spin Cleans really get the job done. When you have a look at the water after a few records, you'll be like 'Whoa, that was in the grooves?!' Haha. Thanks for watching - glad you enjoyed.
Ditto These. Records were my Dad’s and I know he never cleaned them. Did you clean your records 40 years ago. I don’t remember that conversation. Everyone is so positive. It’s definitely worth doing.
Have used this great simple little device for about a year. I agree with everything you said. It us a little pricey tho. One warning beware of using it on table tops with a finish. Even thru two layers of cloth the dampness wore thru the finish.
Very cool. Abused records since the late 70s and packed away for the last 20 years. Just picked up a U-Turn Orbit, a SpinClean on sale from the SpinClean and an Onzow Zerodust. Very good presentation, look forward to cleaning my albums and shopping for more.
An obvious total vinyl enthusiast...well presented and very helpful step-by-step guide to the process...and, of course, classic t-shirt lol...good work all round, feller...
Awesome Bret - just sent thru an order for one on your great display and recommendation - plenty of vinyl to wash-n-dip and looking forward to a few less crackles and pops.
Hi, well I was talked into getting this system & was thinking I made a big mistake. Well after using it on the most dirty albums I had the only thing I can say is ...Holy sh*t batman this is the BEST investment I ever made. It works EXACTLY as it says & I'm really impressed & that takes a LOT. If you don't have one look into it, happy, happy!!
Great demonstration Bret. I really like the Spin-Clean. I think its the best option for most people. I always felt like I was just pushing the dirt around in a circle with the Discwasher brush. People still will swear its the best thing in the world.
I bought a Spin Clean but have been dubious about it, and honestly a bit apprehensive about using it - afraid I might do the wrong thing and destroy my records. This video cleared that all up. Thanks for posting
I think the spin clean is one of the best investments I've made for my collection. I still use the spray from time to time to clean the occasional fingerprint.
Nice video Bret. I found i got better results in drying the records by using micro fibre cloths. Of course, they're a little more expensive, but they do a fantastic job.
Thanks Anthony. The guy from Spin Clean offered me a nice tip about laying out some micro fibre cloths, and setting the records on them after letting the excess liquid drain off them.... then finishing them off with the Spin Clean cloths. Will be picking up some micro fibre cloths for sure. Thanks for watching.
Definetely agree.Micro fiber cloths they do a much better job than the ones come with Spin Clean.Also I must say that I just don't understand people complaining about this device, it's just perfect.Cleans great without causing static, improves the sound quality considerably, and kills most of the clicks/pops and costs only $80.Best investment I've ever made for my record collection.I don't need anymore cleaning fluids, anti-static sprays, velvet brushes etc. P.S. Great demonstration Bret, thank you.I bought mine after watching your video.
Wow I need this. I buy a lot of records used from my local shop, and they are usually 20-40 years old and full of dirt and dust. This would be perfect.
Awesome video!! I've been trying to decide on byuing one for a while. The only thing that would make this better, is playing the records before and after cleanings, to compare sound quality
I agree - it's meditative - I've started doing as you suggest, going through A-Z and while I spin clean each, I take a photo of the label (before I start spinning: iPhone takes a great, discogs-worthy pic) then I record what I've got into discogs so I'm cataloging my collection at same time. I find after about 20 records or so I've had enough. Couple concerns/notes. I bought the basic couple years ago, cloths don't have those nice blue hangers to air dry that yours do. You grabbed the 12" by pinching, but I use the fingers-on-edge method you used with 45" and I don't find I need to touch label at all. Having said that, the counter-clockwise turning is awkward - one of the rollers bounces and it's not smooth, then I switch to clockwise and smooth as silk: I've inspected rollers and they look fine and I've tried to see if it's my hands / too much pressure but don't think so... I do notice they leave a black debris inside the slots (if it weren't for record cleaning, I'd say one needs some axle grease!). Finally, when I air dry the pads, they invariable pick up dust - how do you clean that off the dry pads before inserting for a new wash? I find it impossible to get them clean.
I clean my records with the knosti disco antistat and after that i get my drill. I made a tool. connect it firmly on the head of the drill and start the drill with the record in the tool. You get the centrifugal effect,after some time all the water in the grooves is gone.
The only thing I'd add here is a rinse cycle. Best way is to buy a $10 pump sprayer at your local mega-hardware store, fill it with distilled water and spray both sides after the spin clean. If you're queasy about getting the labels wet, use a label protector. I haven't used any cleaning system yet that doesn't add some surface noise if you don't do a rinse...
those towels are actual surgical sponges , the kind you have to count at the end of surgery , I found a plastic semicircle holder for storage lids at the grocery store , it was the same quality of heavy duty plastic for $3.00 . this record cleaner at $75 is quite a mark up to be sure , I just got one and will be doing my first cleaning this weekend
I bought one of these used and it didn't come with the drying cloths so I bought a nice microfiber cloth (the SOFT kind) from an auto parts store. When I'm done cleaning I just lay the record flat on it, give it a few slow turns to soak up the liquid, then flip it over and dry the other side. It works very well and there's no scratching. Overall the Spin Clean works well. I use it whenever I buy a used record and it always removes some dirt and deposits it at the bottom of the reservoir. I'm sure there's devices out there that are better at cleaning, but for the price it's well worth it.
It's not about how you feel about. It's about how it works! I've used a Discwasher for damn near as many years as you are old and if you use it every time you play a record your records will be clean. This week I've picked up 17 albums from local thrift store; some of these are really dirty, dust and greasy fingerprints on some of them. I ran them under warm water and dried them with a micro-fibre towel, then used my blow dryer on low to make sure they were dry. They are immaculately clean just by doing this simple cleaning. No special fluids no special nothing. Good luck folks and happy listening! The labels don't get damaged at all using my method, except the demo albums with the white labels, they will soak up some water; that's where the hair dryer comes in. Pat dry and blow with warm air and they remain undamaged. Use your brain and all will be well.
Just got one today from amazon! Love it. It is meditative to clean records. Although with a collection of over 7,000 I have a very long way to go! I watched your video for the how to. Great demo. Thanks for posting that.
Thank you for the demo, Brét! I am looking for an inexpensive way to clean my vinyl record collection without breaking the bank and Spin Clean fits the bill.
Been using the Spin Clean for a long time...mine is the brown one before they started making them yellow. I guess the dirt shows up better. I'm kind of a nut, so I like to do a distilled water rinse after the SpinClean. It only takes another 10 seconds and I think it gets the final "whatever" off the vinyl. I use a tub filled with distilled water just deep enough to get to the label. Great video!
I have one and I love it the fluid can be stored for a week, I just clean the pads, you can actually use the texture on the lid kinda like a washboard to get the pads really clean and dirt free.
i have a spin clean, and i love it, 1 extra step i do is... after spinning the record in the spin clean, i remove the record and use tea towels to remove most of the water then polish them up with the cloths.....
I just discovered your channel, Bret. Great demonstration! Thanks! You've managed to convince me to invest in one! It'll pay for itself in no time at all if it gets my records clean. And that alone is a small price to pay.
In my experience this is excellent for "assembly line" cleaning. But when I go to play the record, it's covered with fine white stuff, like lint, which comes off fine with the Discwasher System. I use the Discwasher every time I play anyway.
I made a pole with spacers on to clean about 10 records simultaneously. It fits inside an old washing machine and set to cold wash for 30 minutes. Works a treat. .........and if you believe that. 😆 Seriously though. Cleaning records was never a major part of the average purchaser back in the seventies and eighties and it was never pushed by the retailer's as being essential. Does anyone remember any advice given when purchasing vinyl at all? I certainly don't. You may have got an advert in NME or Sounds magazines for a carbon brush or cloth, but that was about it. We all used to rush home as fast as we could pedal to pop the new purchase on the turntable without any thought and do you know what? My records, purchased new by me from 1979 onwards all play well with little or no noise. Why? I can't say. I always store them properly to prevent dust collecting and play them regularly. I've never cleaned any of them nor brushed them so I'm still not convinced. I have also sold a few vinyl items and all of the buyers were more than pleased with the quality of the item received. I did try the wood glue method on a poor quality single I bought and it did a minor job of improvement, but I think it's just an abused copy. I don't have "audiophile" equipment, ( a Pro-ject Debut III running through a Cambridge Audio 650 amp and Cambridge Audio speakers with standard connects). I've bought records recently that claim to have been cleaned on pro cleaners and quite frankly sound bloody awful, but I don't know what condition they were in prior to purchase. Each to their own and if you notice that your treasured vinyl plays better with all the expense and faff of cleaning them, brilliant! If, like me you don't follow a regime, brilliant! Just enjoy listening to your music. That's what it's all about.
Darrell Golder Thanks Darrell - there's a link to buy on Amazon thru my blog's page: brethelm.blogspot.com/2014/03/spin-clean-vinyl-record-washer-demo.html
Spin Clean is great - however, a common problem with the Spin Clean, upon playing afterwards sometimes the records sound worse, certainly in the quiet areas. This is rectified by playing the record a couple of times - the stylus seems to cut through all the excess soap from the solution that is left in bedded in the grooves (although people have suggested rinsing the record afterwards in distilled water - apparently, this sorts out the problem).
Bret Helm's Life On This Planet Blog I noticed scuffing on two 180 gram albums that I bought new and cleaned with the Spin Clean. The problem is that I'm not sure if the marks were there before I cleaned them, or if they appeared after I was done... either way I'm paranoid now - lol! The albums were on Matador, which I've found can release some sketchy vinyl from time to time, so there's a chance that the marks were already there.
Hey Bret thanks for sharing your information regarding cleaning the vinyl records. I know you said to pour 3 caps full of the cleaning solution, I guess my question would be is how many records would you say you can clean before adding 3 more caps of the solution. Thank you for your time best of luck - Bill
Hey Bill. I dump the whole fluid when it starts looking pretty murky. Then I refill with new distilled water and new solution. I just judge it by sight and it really depends on how dirty they are. Cheers!
Excellent review & demo! I've been considering buying one of those off Amazon. Think I'll go for it! I've got probably 100 LPs & ~ sixty 45s That I've gotten from Goodwill & Savers. Most of them are quite dusty!
Bret Helm's Life On This Planet Blog It's been awhile, but just after that first posting, I bought one of these. Previously, I used an Audio-Technica brush-cleaner. While it worked OK, I redid many of my existing collection w/ the Spin Clean & found that they looked (& sounded!) even better! All thrift-store vinyl, at the time of the post (& everything since then) have been done only on the SC. Excellent product!
Killer post!! Thank you so much for this thorough, helpful, and insightful guide. I'm an avid vinyl collector and have been on the fence for a while as to which method I should use. Your post was a huge help and as I'm sure that I speak for the vinyl community, your guidance is much appreciated as is your passion for records. Well done.
You didn't mention the added bonus of how the Spin Clean eliminates static as well. This is the best (and cheapest) way to care for your vinyl. Highly recommend!
Looks like a cool tool for my Seeburg 1000 records. Now I just need to figure how to get it to work with the oddball 9 inch size. I’ll probably end up machining some kind of offset roller bracket thingy that fits the existing slots-a fun little project.
You cleaned 2 records for this example, do you need to add cleaner again to the brushes next time, or are you good for the rest of the 50 cleanings (I think I heard) per dosage?
I TRULY hope you get some kind of compensation for doing this video. I am going to the site right now and buy 2. 1 For me and 1 for my younger brother. THANKS!!!!
I just using Audiotechnics AT6012 kit,well I don't think it can do more except dust removal and maybe the care solution help depressing germs on uesed ones,but I can't tell the difference by listening so far .Now I want to try this spin clean kit after watching your video.looks nice working
The Spin Clean Record Washer seems like a awesome product! I'm thinking about getting one! I have alot of records that need to bring bought back to life! I have one question though? Does the Spin Clean removes some of the skips completely? That would be great if it did the trick? So the record can play throughout the process without skipping having that nice contrast in the grooves.
cool4rocknroll If there is dust / debris causing the skips, then I reckon that will help - but if it's deep scratches, then I'm afraid cleaning won't remove the skips.
For skip repair, you can try replacing your needle with a used/old needle and spin the record slowly backwards manually at the point where the skips happens. Go over this area a few time but remember always spin it backwards to straighten out the grooves. This method worked for me in 90% of cases.
This thing works great, I used it on my own records and a collection of old 78's . One trick is after you wash it, use a spray bottle with distilled water to clean out any excess cleaner. Then use a microfiber or similar cloth to dry it. A friend uses a hair dryer on really low heat ( basically it is really just a fan), I am too chicken to try that.
Those white towels are actually called laparotomy sponges and are used in surgery...the blue loop is xray detectable. Yes wash them 1st and they are awesome, I polish my cars with them.
Thank you doctor
Are they X-ray detectable in case they get left inside someone during/after an operation?
Hah, I noticed that too.
@@tomlayman3141 yep. We do multiple counts. Before surgery, during surgery, closing, and final. If counts don’t match and a thorough search doesn’t reconcile the count, then we X-ray.
No. It’s because people boof these trying to get them across the border so border agents needed a more efficient ways to catch the mules illegally bringing these towels into our country
Great video and presentation of the spin clean. I have been using one for years now and highly recommend it. I also use the dish washing rack to air dry after the cloths. One extra step I do is use a spray bottle with distilled water after removing the record from the spin clean to make sure all the cleaning fluid has been removed. It also gets any particles that may have been left behind out of the grooves.
We sell the Spin Clean and use it for cleaning all of our records. Great cleaning system: affordable, low-tech and efficient! By the way, this video is one of the best I've seen explaining the Spin Clean. Thanks!
This is actually a pretty good piece of kit.. Cleaned up my 40 year old copy of Closer.. Joy Division and it had plenty of annoying pops and crackles.. Its sounds amazing the difference after cleaning it properly.. No pops, no crackles, no skips nothing. Bit overpriced in England but you get great results.
Just did my first batch. The instructions were pretty clear, but I wanted a visual run-through. You are right about the fun to be had listening while cleaning more!
Tommy Salmon Right on, Tommy. Glad the video helped.
How did the single sound after the clean? 🙂
Excellent video about the Spin Clean. I have cleaned many records with the Spin Clean with excellent results. I prefer using scratch resistant micro fiber cloths to the cloths that come with the Spin Clean. I dry the record by laying it on a micro fiber cloth and wiping the side facing up, then, I turn the record over and wipe the other side which is mostly dry from having lay on the micro fiber cloth.
In my experience, Spin Clean has always cleaned records superbly. I recommend the Spin Clean highly.
Bought this. It did an excellent job cleaning my old records. One concern; Records in dirty water. I clean only 10 or 15 then change out the water. Cleaning solution and distilled water are cheap enough that it's still an inexpensive method that will rejuvenate your collection.
Just used mine for the first time today. OUTSTANDING cleaner. I recommend an initial cleaning with the Spin Clean to get oils off the record followed by Tight Bond 2 for the deep clean, then another cleaning with the Spin Clean. That process gets used records pretty close to their new state. Great video!
Right on! Glad you enjoyed the video. :)
Great review - looks like a therapeutic way to get vinyl looking fresh
Very nice, Bret! It's a good product for most people - thought I do recommend putting the records in new sleeves so 1. Paper bits don't get back into the record/recontaminate 2. So you know you cleaned the record and you don't have to reclean.
Thanks Kris. Yeah, the intent was to put in new sleeves as I clean. I will definitely be doing that as I start working through the collection. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the encouraging review. Just placed an order on Amazon for the clear plastic “anniversary edition” with the additional large sized bottle of cleaning fluid and new anti-static record brush. Looking forward to cleaning up my collection of 80s LPs and 12”s. 😀 (Which includes my original 80s pressings of Still, Closer, and Unknown Pleasures incidentally).
Fantastic!
Bret, just one tip I’ve learned whilst using this piece of kit. You don’t need to wipe off that excess water off after spinning. What I do is just leave the record propped up between the brushes for 10 mins to let most of the water drain naturally. Then when it comes to wiping down you only have a few small blobs of water - which preserves your cloths from getting too sodden too quickly.
***** / ***** - I actually do clean off the brushes with distilled water. There is a huge difference from when the record first goes in - than from when it comes out - that 'muck' is actually settling down to the bottom of the basin, rather than back into the grooves. It's a great method for cleaning, but if soap and water works for you, then cool. Thanks for stopping by.
I thought I bought out supplies from Disc washer 30+ years ago, but what do I know. When I do play an LP the record is from the '60s thru the '80s only for transfer to a CD for my own personal use; and I still love the old Disc Washer products. In the '70s I learned how to take care of LPs and they sound as good today as when they were new. I am interested in learning more about Spin Clean.
Man, do I wish I knew about this back in the day (70's). We used a version of that first velvet pad thing. I bet it wouldn't hurt to do more revolutions.
I've also been using the Spin Clean for a few years now with good results. However I also rinse the record in distilled water after cleaning it with the Spin Clean in order to remove the cleaning solution and perhaps any remaining dirt in the grooves. I use another similar but cheaper record cleaning trough for the rinsing (Knosti brand) and lastly, I vacuum dry the record with a device that connects to a household vacuum cleaner (KAB EBV-1 from KAB Electro Acoustics). The extra devices are relatively inexpensive.
Love my Spin Clean. I recently transformed mine into a ultrasonic cleaner by attaching a small palm sander on the side close to bottom with velcro and turn it on. It even turns the lp automatically as well. There solution really cleans when ultrasonic waves are blasting the dirt out of the grooves! Then when you just need to clean manually just pull the palm sander off. Great product!
Wow! I'm definitely intrigued by this - do you have a photo of it, or a video posted? Don't quite understand how it all hooks up. :)
Bret Helm's Life On This Planet Blog I will get you a pic.
I picked up the brown "anniversary" edition. I wish I had the yellow one, as it would be easier to tell how dirty the water is in the basin. Nice video.
Maybe spray paint the inside of the unit with a bright color? just a thought
Just dump the water out into a white pail - duh.
I'm getting ready to use mine for the first time, and your video is a great help. Thanks so much.
Thanks for this. I'm buying one of these tonight to clean my vast older record collection.
Hi do you still have you spin clean,if so are you happy with it 😊
Great demo man so how do you clean the covers and inserts etc? Gracias! Love your videos!
I just started using the vinyl cleaner on my collection. I have a box of 78's I got years ago from my grandmother. They were very dirty. I used the vinyl cleaner on them and they sound incredible. My collection of LP, 45's and 78's is over a few thousand and growing. I'll be using this vinyl cleaner for my collection. Now if I can just get someone to catalog everything.
I just got one of these after deliberating for years.. why did I wait so long!.. these are fantastic. Great video thank you.
Excellent. Thanks for watching!
I've been debating getting on for a while and wanted to see an actual person using it... have to say I'm sold! Thank you for the info!
Glad the video was helpful, Laura. Thanks for tuning in.
Thanks for the info, I actually purchased the spin clean after watching your video. It may be over priced but it works. I appreciate your efforts and your t-shirt...
Cool video! I am totally buying one of these things!
Right on. Glad you enjoyed the video. There are purchase links here: brethelm.blogspot.com/2014/03/spin-clean-vinyl-record-washer-demo.html
Funny. Those towels are actually laparotomy sponges used to pack inside the body cavity during open surgical procedures. I have a ton of them (sterile too) in my basement!
thank you! i was wondering what it was. 3d printer friends, hello...
why do you have open surgery equipment in your basement?
Alex James I'm just guessing but he probably is a doctor
And you have a ton of these in your basement...because?
One is collecting stamps another cuts people open in the basement.
Been thinking about getting one of these. Tried using wood glue and although it works, it is incredibly time consuming and very easy to screw things up. Besides, my records aren't that filthy that I need the wood glue treatment anyway.
I'm with you on the dishwashing thing. I can easily see myself spending a whole afternoon cleaning records and relaxing.
Thanks for the video.
Thanks Jeff. Yeah, I hear you - I don't usually buy / or own any records that would be in dire need of resorting to the wood glue method... and besides, when I bring home a bag of records, I want to clean them right away and get them on the turntable! I don't have the time to wait hours for glue to dry! :)
I haven't properly cleaned my records in years...some have never been cleaned! I have been debating on one of these or holding out for a vpi...this seems pretty adequate. Thanks for the demo!
Hey Jeff! Man, I think it's definitely the way to go. I just can't afford a VPI - and these Spin Cleans really get the job done. When you have a look at the water after a few records, you'll be like 'Whoa, that was in the grooves?!' Haha. Thanks for watching - glad you enjoyed.
Right on, I obviously trust your opinion on the matter...the 'matter' in the grooves...gotta get that!
Ditto These. Records were my Dad’s and I know he never cleaned them. Did you clean your records 40 years ago. I don’t remember that conversation. Everyone is so positive. It’s definitely worth doing.
Great Looking Shirt!!
I wear latex gloves, better grip on record and no finger prints on edges.
Have used this great simple little device for about a year. I agree with everything you said. It us a little pricey tho. One warning beware of using it on table tops with a finish. Even thru two layers of cloth the dampness wore thru the finish.
Very cool. Abused records since the late 70s and packed away for the last 20 years. Just picked up a U-Turn Orbit, a SpinClean on sale from the SpinClean and an Onzow Zerodust. Very good presentation, look forward to cleaning my albums and shopping for more.
An obvious total vinyl enthusiast...well presented and very helpful step-by-step guide to the process...and, of course, classic t-shirt lol...good work all round, feller...
Thanks for the kind words, Noel
Awesome Bret - just sent thru an order for one on your great display and recommendation - plenty of vinyl to wash-n-dip and looking forward to a few less crackles and pops.
Thanks Geoff!
Great tutorial! I was wondering how often I should wash the drying cloths.
Hi, well I was talked into getting this system & was thinking I made a big mistake. Well after using it on the most dirty albums I had the only thing I can say is ...Holy sh*t batman this is the BEST investment I ever made. It works EXACTLY as it says & I'm really impressed & that takes a LOT. If you don't have one look into it, happy, happy!!
Great review. I think it's time to revive my LPs.
thanks for posting the video, wasn't sure how much water to cleaner to use but now understand much better what to do...........
Great demonstration Bret. I really like the Spin-Clean. I think its the best option for most people. I always felt like I was just pushing the dirt around in a circle with the Discwasher brush. People still will swear its the best thing in the world.
Thanks Wes!
Thank you! Excellent tutorial on using the Spin Clean.
I bought a Spin Clean but have been dubious about it, and honestly a bit apprehensive about using it - afraid I might do the wrong thing and destroy my records.
This video cleared that all up. Thanks for posting
Right on, Ronnie. Glad it was helpful.
I think the spin clean is one of the best investments I've made for my collection. I still use the spray from time to time to clean the occasional fingerprint.
Nice video Bret. I found i got better results in drying the records by using micro fibre cloths. Of course, they're a little more expensive, but they do a fantastic job.
Thanks Anthony. The guy from Spin Clean offered me a nice tip about laying out some micro fibre cloths, and setting the records on them after letting the excess liquid drain off them.... then finishing them off with the Spin Clean cloths. Will be picking up some micro fibre cloths for sure. Thanks for watching.
Definetely agree.Micro fiber cloths they do a much better job than the ones come with Spin Clean.Also I must say that I just don't understand people complaining about this device, it's just perfect.Cleans great without causing static, improves the sound quality considerably, and kills most of the clicks/pops and costs only $80.Best investment I've ever made for my record collection.I don't need anymore cleaning fluids, anti-static sprays, velvet brushes etc. P.S. Great demonstration Bret, thank you.I bought mine after watching your video.
Wow I need this. I buy a lot of records used from my local shop, and they are usually 20-40 years old and full of dirt and dust. This would be perfect.
iv used mine for decades!
Perfect review, answered all my questions and a great demo, Thanks Bret
Thanks Richard! Glad it helped.
Awesome video!! I've been trying to decide on byuing one for a while. The only thing that would make this better, is playing the records before and after cleanings, to compare sound quality
You'll find before-and-after to be a huge differance! Blessed silence between tracks! Paid for itself in one day!
Great taste in Music Bret! Tears for fears is one of my top favs!!
Thanks for the tutorial.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the video.
Thanks for this review, was on the fence about getting one but I'm definitely going to pick one up.
I agree - it's meditative - I've started doing as you suggest, going through A-Z and while I spin clean each, I take a photo of the label (before I start spinning: iPhone takes a great, discogs-worthy pic) then I record what I've got into discogs so I'm cataloging my collection at same time. I find after about 20 records or so I've had enough.
Couple concerns/notes. I bought the basic couple years ago, cloths don't have those nice blue hangers to air dry that yours do. You grabbed the 12" by pinching, but I use the fingers-on-edge method you used with 45" and I don't find I need to touch label at all. Having said that, the counter-clockwise turning is awkward - one of the rollers bounces and it's not smooth, then I switch to clockwise and smooth as silk: I've inspected rollers and they look fine and I've tried to see if it's my hands / too much pressure but don't think so... I do notice they leave a black debris inside the slots (if it weren't for record cleaning, I'd say one needs some axle grease!). Finally, when I air dry the pads, they invariable pick up dust - how do you clean that off the dry pads before inserting for a new wash? I find it impossible to get them clean.
I clean my records with the knosti disco antistat and after that i get my drill. I made a tool. connect it firmly on the head of the drill and start the drill with the record in the tool. You get the centrifugal effect,after some time all the water in the grooves is gone.
Thats a great idea
I always put clean records in new sleeves.
The only thing I'd add here is a rinse cycle. Best way is to buy a $10 pump sprayer at your local mega-hardware store, fill it with distilled water and spray both sides after the spin clean. If you're queasy about getting the labels wet, use a label protector. I haven't used any cleaning system yet that doesn't add some surface noise if you don't do a rinse...
those towels are actual surgical sponges , the kind you have to count at the end of surgery , I found a plastic semicircle holder for storage lids at the grocery store , it was the same quality of heavy duty plastic for $3.00 . this record cleaner at $75 is quite a mark up to be sure , I just got one and will be doing my first cleaning this weekend
Same here. I am totally sold. Getting one now.
Excellent!
I bought one of these used and it didn't come with the drying cloths so I bought a nice microfiber cloth (the SOFT kind) from an auto parts store. When I'm done cleaning I just lay the record flat on it, give it a few slow turns to soak up the liquid, then flip it over and dry the other side. It works very well and there's no scratching. Overall the Spin Clean works well. I use it whenever I buy a used record and it always removes some dirt and deposits it at the bottom of the reservoir. I'm sure there's devices out there that are better at cleaning, but for the price it's well worth it.
Good stuff man. You obviously love vinyl and love sharing this with other vinyl heads. You’ve sold me.
This looks like an excellent purchase. I'm just getting back into vinyl and I was wondering what the best way to clean them would be
It's not about how you feel about. It's about how it works! I've used a Discwasher for damn near as many years as you are old and if you use it every time you play a record your records will be clean. This week I've picked up 17 albums from local thrift store; some of these are really dirty, dust and greasy fingerprints on some of them. I ran them under warm water and dried them with a micro-fibre towel, then used my blow dryer on low to make sure they were dry. They are immaculately clean just by doing this simple cleaning. No special fluids no special nothing. Good luck folks and happy listening!
The labels don't get damaged at all using my method, except the demo albums with the white labels, they will soak up some water; that's where the hair dryer comes in. Pat dry and blow with warm air and they remain undamaged. Use your brain and all will be well.
Just got one today from amazon! Love it. It is meditative to clean records. Although with a collection of over 7,000 I have a very long way to go! I watched your video for the how to. Great demo. Thanks for posting that.
Thank you for the demo, Brét! I am looking for an inexpensive way to clean my vinyl record collection without breaking the bank and Spin Clean fits the bill.
You're welcome! This is definitely the way to go, Christian. Glad you enjoyed the video. - Bret
I've been thinking about investing in something like this, so your video was very informative. Thanks!
Thanks for watching!
Wonderful demo and tips! I'm going to order one now!
Been using the Spin Clean for a long time...mine is the brown one before they started making them yellow. I guess the dirt shows up better. I'm kind of a nut, so I like to do a distilled water rinse after the SpinClean. It only takes another 10 seconds and I think it gets the final "whatever" off the vinyl. I use a tub filled with distilled water just deep enough to get to the label.
Great video!
Thanks Emily!
I have one and I love it the fluid can be stored for a week, I just clean the pads, you can actually use the texture on the lid kinda like a washboard to get the pads really clean and dirt free.
Best Cleaning Vinyl video on the net. Thanks Bret.
Phabian Holman Thanks man, really appreciate that.
i have a spin clean, and i love it, 1 extra step i do is... after spinning the record in the spin clean, i remove the record and use tea towels to remove most of the water then polish them up with the cloths.....
I just discovered your channel, Bret. Great demonstration! Thanks! You've managed to convince me to invest in one! It'll pay for itself in no time at all if it gets my records clean. And that alone is a small price to pay.
In my experience this is excellent for "assembly line" cleaning. But when I go to play the record, it's covered with fine white stuff, like lint, which comes off fine with the Discwasher System. I use the Discwasher every time I play anyway.
I made a pole with spacers on to clean about 10 records simultaneously. It fits inside an old washing machine and set to cold wash for 30 minutes. Works a treat. .........and if you believe that. 😆 Seriously though. Cleaning records was never a major part of the average purchaser back in the seventies and eighties and it was never pushed by the retailer's as being essential. Does anyone remember any advice given when purchasing vinyl at all? I certainly don't. You may have got an advert in NME or Sounds magazines for a carbon brush or cloth, but that was about it. We all used to rush home as fast as we could pedal to pop the new purchase on the turntable without any thought and do you know what? My records, purchased new by me from 1979 onwards all play well with little or no noise. Why? I can't say. I always store them properly to prevent dust collecting and play them regularly. I've never cleaned any of them nor brushed them so I'm still not convinced. I have also sold a few vinyl items and all of the buyers were more than pleased with the quality of the item received. I did try the wood glue method on a poor quality single I bought and it did a minor job of improvement, but I think it's just an abused copy. I don't have "audiophile" equipment, ( a Pro-ject Debut III running through a Cambridge Audio 650 amp and Cambridge Audio speakers with standard connects). I've bought records recently that claim to have been cleaned on pro cleaners and quite frankly sound bloody awful, but I don't know what condition they were in prior to purchase. Each to their own and if you notice that your treasured vinyl plays better with all the expense and faff of cleaning them, brilliant! If, like me you don't follow a regime, brilliant! Just enjoy listening to your music. That's what it's all about.
Good stuff Brett. Might just breakdown and get one.
I’m scared to try new cleaners cause my records are like my children. You’ve given me some confidence with this review tho. Thank youuuu!!!
I bought the Big Fudge version; it really works. I wipe my records first to remove some excess dust before placing it to the cleaner.
I wish there was this amazing device back in the day ... Great investement !!!
Great review. Getting one tomorrow.
Darrell Golder Thanks Darrell - there's a link to buy on Amazon thru my blog's page: brethelm.blogspot.com/2014/03/spin-clean-vinyl-record-washer-demo.html
Spin Clean is great - however, a common problem with the Spin Clean, upon playing afterwards sometimes the records sound worse, certainly in the quiet areas. This is rectified by playing the record a couple of times - the stylus seems to cut through all the excess soap from the solution that is left in bedded in the grooves (although people have suggested rinsing the record afterwards in distilled water - apparently, this sorts out the problem).
I put a distilled water spray after use my brush works great and before I play on my turntable
Swiffer dusters also do a great job.
This is the most satisfying way to clean records, almost therapeutic.
This seems a hell of a lot smarter than Glue to me. Simple and to the point.
Great product! I've been using Spin Clean for about two years now. I don't trust using it for 180 Gram vinyl, but it rocks on everything else.
Thanks for watching! Just curious, what is it about 180 gram vinyl that you don't trust with the machine? - Bret
Bret Helm's Life On This Planet Blog I noticed scuffing on two 180 gram albums that I bought new and cleaned with the Spin Clean. The problem is that I'm not sure if the marks were there before I cleaned them, or if they appeared after I was done... either way I'm paranoid now - lol! The albums were on Matador, which I've found can release some sketchy vinyl from time to time, so there's a chance that the marks were already there.
@@Diatonic5th ive used it on several 180's with no problem...
Hey Bret thanks for sharing your information regarding cleaning the vinyl records.
I know you said to pour 3 caps full of the cleaning solution, I guess my question would be is how many records would you say you can clean before adding 3 more caps of the solution. Thank you for your time best of luck - Bill
Hey Bill. I dump the whole fluid when it starts looking pretty murky. Then I refill with new distilled water and new solution. I just judge it by sight and it really depends on how dirty they are. Cheers!
Excellent review & demo! I've been considering buying one of those off Amazon. Think I'll go for it! I've got probably 100 LPs & ~ sixty 45s That I've gotten from Goodwill & Savers. Most of them are quite dusty!
Glad you enjoyed the demo/review! Thanks for stopping by. The Spin Clean will work wonders on those thrift store finds. :) Cheers!
Bret Helm's Life On This Planet Blog It's been awhile, but just after that first posting, I bought one of these. Previously, I used an Audio-Technica brush-cleaner. While it worked OK, I redid many of my existing collection w/ the Spin Clean & found that they looked (& sounded!) even better! All thrift-store vinyl, at the time of the post (& everything since then) have been done only on the SC. Excellent product!
Thanks for the update! Great to hear that it worked well for you too. Cheers! - Bret
Killer post!! Thank you so much for this thorough, helpful, and insightful guide. I'm an avid vinyl collector and have been on the fence for a while as to which method I should use. Your post was a huge help and as I'm sure that I speak for the vinyl community, your guidance is much appreciated as is your passion for records. Well done.
I appreciate the kind words, Brian. Happy the video was helpful for you! - Bret
brethelm.blogspot.com/2014/03/spin-clean-vinyl-record-washer-demo.html
Great video! I have been wanting one of these for awhile, saving up for it. want it even more now. tfs
Excellent! Glad you enjoyed the demo. Thanks for watching. :)
The drying towels being used are medical grade used for operating procedures for soaking up blood during surgery.
You didn't mention the added bonus of how the Spin Clean eliminates static as well. This is the best (and cheapest) way to care for your vinyl. Highly recommend!
I would think rubbing it with a cloth (to dry it) would reintroduce static. Maybe just air dry?
Thank you for this demonstration video. It was sooooo helpful! I think I am going to invest in one of these machines.
You are very welcome - glad you enjoyed! :)
Answered all my questions, thanks for the fluid.
Cave Covers Thanks for watching!
very good clear,concise demo of the spin clean thank you. you cost me 80 bucks.
Looks like a cool tool for my Seeburg 1000 records. Now I just need to figure how to get it to work with the oddball 9 inch size. I’ll probably end up machining some kind of offset roller bracket thingy that fits the existing slots-a fun little project.
You cleaned 2 records for this example, do you need to add cleaner again to the brushes next time, or are you good for the rest of the 50 cleanings (I think I heard) per dosage?
awsome cleaner, defintally have to pick one up.
Tears For Fears! Favorite band! First heard them on Vinyl even before radio! Bought The Hurting in 1987! Awesome background, my friend! 🍻
I TRULY hope you get some kind of compensation for doing this video. I am going to the site right now and buy 2. 1 For me and 1 for my younger brother. THANKS!!!!
I just using Audiotechnics AT6012 kit,well I don't think it can do more except dust removal and maybe the care solution help depressing germs on uesed ones,but I can't tell the difference by listening so far .Now I want to try this spin clean kit after watching your video.looks nice working
Zero Yu Thanks for watching!
Excellent presentation !!
Thanks for watching! - Bret
The Spin Clean Record Washer seems like a awesome product! I'm thinking about getting one! I have alot of records that need to bring bought back to life! I have one question though? Does the Spin Clean removes some of the skips completely? That would be great if it did the trick? So the record can play throughout the process without skipping having that nice contrast in the grooves.
cool4rocknroll If there is dust / debris causing the skips, then I reckon that will help - but if it's deep scratches, then I'm afraid cleaning won't remove the skips.
For skip repair, you can try replacing your needle with a used/old needle and spin the record slowly backwards manually at the point where the skips happens. Go over this area a few time but remember always spin it backwards to straighten out the grooves. This method worked for me in 90% of cases.
Would like to hear a before and after comparison of records that have been cleaned.
This thing works great, I used it on my own records and a collection of old 78's . One trick is after you wash it, use a spray bottle with distilled water to clean out any excess cleaner. Then use a microfiber or similar cloth to dry it. A friend uses a hair dryer on really low heat ( basically it is really just a fan), I am too chicken to try that.
wish o had found you a few tears ago...thanks for a great video
this is an awesome video, great demo, sold it to me totally
+naked flames Thank you!
i nearly got it sold to me untill i seen the price it aint cheap for something so simple...
Rokas Kairys lmao same here, I was planning on buying one and then saw the price and said "hahaha well, I guess not"
And what are your records and stylus worth?