Cleaning Transcription Discs

Transcription discs can be cleaned using the Keith Monks record cleaner that is kept in the conservation lab (on the counter, near the sink). This can be done to clean any grime, dirt, mildew, etc. from the surface of the transcription disc to allow for a cleaner transfer. To clean:

1. Remove the lid from the record cleaner and place the record onto the platter with whichever side you would like to clean first facing up.
2. Locate two bottles of solution - one is just distilled water, and one is a cleaning solution. Drizzle a bit of the cleaning solution on the surface of the disc.
3. Using the red velvet brush, work the solution into the grooves and create suds. Move the brush in line with the grooves, not across them. Lather the entire disc.
4. Turn the cleaner to the vacuum/dry mode and gently lay the "needle" near the center of the disc. It will vacuum up the solution moving from the inside to the outside. The string that runs into the arm is intended to slowly move on its own, keeping the "needle" from making contact with the disc itself and loosening debris. On occasion, it will not move on its own and will begin to pile up. To force this, you can briefly lift the arm and lay it back down. If the string is not moving at all, you may need to do this several times per side.
5. When the needle gets to the end, pick it up and return to its station and shut the machine off.
6. Complete a rinse cycle. Use the distilled water instead of the solution and work it into the grooves the same way, but with the black brush. There will still be some lather. Run the dry/vacuum function again to vacuum up the water.
7. Complete additional rinse cycles as needed until there is no longer residue and lather on the disc.
8. Rinse both brushes in the sink and dry them off with paper towels.
9. Flip the disc and repeat steps 3-7 for the other side.
10. Clean brushes again and store all equipment. Place disc in a new sleeve (stored in drawers below counter) if there was a significant amount of cleaning necessary. Move label to new sleeve and discard old sleeve.