Why is my new record dusty or dirty?Updated 4 hours ago

Even brand-new vinyl may arrive with a little surface residue. Pressing plants aren’t sterile environments—small particles like paper dust, debris from inner sleeves, or pressing compound residue can cling to records during production and packaging.

This doesn’t mean your vinyl is defective or mishandled—it’s normal and easy to fix.

Here’s what we recommend:

1. Clean before first play. Use a vinyl-safe cleaning solution or distilled water with a soft microfiber cloth.
   
   

2. Avoid household cleaners. These can damage the grooves and impact sound quality.
   
   

3. Consider a record cleaning kit. There are several excellent, affordable options designed specifically for vinyl care.
   
   

A quick clean will often resolve light crackling or static on a first play and extend your record’s lifespan.