Deep Cleaning Records With Steam?

Threaders:

A 'Goner emailed me detailing his use of a conventional steam iron resulting in the warping of a vintage LP. Learn from this experience , never use a steam iron in lieu of a hand held steam cleaner. The heat footprint is far too large, causing the vinyl to absorb excessive heat and warp. Always use a hand held steam cleaner, always a safe bet for you and your record collection.

12-07-07: Crem1
Threaders:

A 'Goner emailed me detailing his use of a conventional steam iron resulting in the warping of a vintage LP.

Nominated for a Darwin Jr. Award.

"Let the one who is without error and sin cast the first stone", Jesus Christ.

Good words to live by especially in the realm of ideas good and not so good.

Steaming has its limits , the consequences become more understandable when experimentation demostrates that what you get is not what you wanted. No need for tags or flames, just knowledge. That way , we learn together some quicker but we learn together in-fellowship . No more, no less.

The best Audiogon thread EVER!

I went out and bought the steamer at wal-mart. Please excuse my ignorance, there are a few things I do not understand.

1) How far do I hold the steamer nozzle from the record?

2) What kind of motion do I use? Circular following the grooves or maybe from top to bottom?

3) Is there a particular brand or type of dish rack to get to prevent scratching the record?

4) I'm confused, do you physically towel dry the records, or air dry them in the dish rack??

Thanks in advance, GREAT JOB!

Hiffile:

Remember its always the journey ...

1. That's a variable from 1" to 3", the SF-227 has a Lot of Steam Power--Keep a vinyl-type glove on your hands for safety sake. The 227 can leave a scalding red streak should you overlap your hand.

2. Holding the LP on an angle facing away from your face and body, spray the groves in a circular motion. Top to bottom or reverse doesn't really matter just watch the label. Always wipe it dry or cover with a circular piece of vinyl, I use a "give-away" jar opener.

3. Yes, a vinyl-type covering over all the frame works for me. Soft and non-abrasive.

4. Some air dry and some do not. Using an extremely soft micro cloth seems to be the perferred method of those who do not combo with a RCM. Soft is the perference, just a slight wipe once or twice , allow air drying for several minutes depending on your home enviorment.

Thank you for the kind words. I only hope that what we have diccussed will enhanse your listening experience.