Pathé vertical record cleaning

[Torjazzer]

I have a few Pathé Frères black label vertical-cut records that are very dirty. I want to clean them but afraid to; knowing that different composites demand special treatment. As with Edison DDs, do vertical Pathés require something special or can they be cleaned as if they are Victors?

[OrthoSean]

You can clean them the same way as a Victor.

Sean

[estott]

Just one word of warning- do not use hot water. I don't know if the french pressings differ from the american ones, but I washed one of the Ca. 1918 red rooster label ones in very hot water from the tap and it went limp in my hands.

[VintageTechnologies]

Use lukewarm water and mild dish soap to clean Pathé records. They are more heat sensitive than regular 78s, and I imagine the European Pathés are even more so. In some extreme cases, I have sprayed a soft cotton undershirt with original formula "Armor All" vinyl cleaner and wiped the record with that. Then wipe completely dry with a clean cloth. Besides removing stubborn gunk, the silicone in "Armor All" will temporarily give the record a deep black shine. It will also give a worn record enough lubrication that a weak motor won't bog down.

[Torjazzer]

Once again this forum has come through. Thanks very much, everyone.