Deep Cleaning Records With Steam?

I know I'm in the minority here but(possibly along with Stltrains) I feel like the paranoia over chemicals in the cone attachment is a little over the top. It's hard for me to see how a significant amount of contamination could occur from this. Using a steamer with the 16.5 as Stltrains and I (among others) do would be impossible or very hard to do without this attachment. The steamer would have to be tipped more than would be safe. Also, I would think that the ultra pure water rinces and vacuuming should take care of those deposits should they be there. I realize this is not scientific by any means but all I'm noticing is cleaner and better sounding vinyl. I'm not worried about the attachments.

This group of posts is amazing...I never thought people would have so much to say about steam cleaning records

08-20-08: Sonofjim
I know I'm in the minority here but(possibly along with Stltrains) I feel like the paranoia over chemicals in the cone attachment is a little over the top. It's hard for me to see how a significant amount of contamination could occur from this.

Do you agree that a discussion on water purity is then also paranoid, since the water used in the Perfection steamer is likely being contaminated to some degree? Perhaps, basic distilled water is sufficient?

Crem1, shall we assume an instructional video is not something you would consider for those of us who would like to learn your method?

I'm not Sonofjim, but I think that there probably is some paranoia / OCD over water purity. Straight tap water will more than likely cake up the steamer depending upon your water hardness, but yes, I think reagent grade water is OTT when you consider the amount of time the water actually spends on a record.

I myself use softened / RO water straight from my own filter.

I think that the possibility of contaminants reaching the surface of records due to a hose attachment of the Perfection Steamer is minimal, concern that it is misplaced. The chances of water breaking down the elements of composite fixtures are slim at best in our lifetime, regardless of their smell. The real risk is the waters reaction the various metals in the steaming path, especially where dis-simmilar metals are in contact with water and electrons (electricity) are excited by the heat/energy. You will do no physical harm to your records by adding an attachment to your steamer. Come on, where are you science teachers that drummed this useless fact into my head over the years?