The Talking Machine Forum — For All Antique Phonographs & Recordings

I am new to hand crank phonographs. I recently purchased a Sonora because I have a box full of shellac records that belonged to my grandfather, and I wanted to hear them. They are all in binders that I am going to have to discard due to their condition. Several of the record have white discoloration on part of them that may be mold. Any suggestion on how to clean and disinfect these record while maintaining their integrity?

Assuming you are looking at standard 78s, the usual method is a drop or 2 of dish detergent in a few ounces of room temperature water, applied to the grooves with a soft toothbrush, then rinsed, being sure not to get the labels wet.

If you use the search function, you will find many suggestions regarding the proper cleaning of records. There are also videos on YouTube for this.

Number one rule - don't use alcohol.

Many methods. Lots of discussion of this topic on this server. A search will reveal all.

Wolfe wrote:Number one rule - don't use alcohol.

...except on Edison Diamond Discs!

Thanks guys. I've seen plenty on soap and water, and was questioning alcohol and bleach. Thanks again for the advice.