Cleaning cylinder records

I just purchased a large collection of phonographs that includes both disk and cylinder players and records. This is my first experience with cylinders. I need some advise on cleaning them. I know there are several different types and it probably takes different methods to clean them. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

For cleaning Amberol or other celluloid cylinder records, this is the cleaning process most collectors I've known have followed: http://www.lagparty.org/~wyatt/bacleaning.html


For wax, I've been told that it's best to stick with "dry" cleaning, unless there is a lot of debris clogging the surface. A friend of mine explained that what he does is to put the cylinder onto the spindle of his phonograph, and while the record is spinning, gently press against it using a dry microfiber cloth for several minutes. He carefully inspects the surface with a magnifying glass, and if there is any remaining dirt, he'll wipe it again.

A more scientific Wet Cleaning method is described here -- http://home.earthlink.net/~gnordenstam/ ... eaning.htm -- though I don't know about the availability of Labtone, or the other chemicals.

The CLPGS also offers a few tips: http://www.clpgs.org.uk/cylinder_cleaning_detail.htm

HTH,
JDS

Thanks Joe, your help is always welcome.

There are several types of cylinders:
- Wax
- Celluloid
- Acetate
- Plastic

I would suggest using a soft brush on a spinning cylinder for any of these.

Do not get the celluloid ones wet.

Thanks again guys, you have been very helpful