How to clean old lacquer masters

[thelace43]

Hi there,

I found an old master at the local goodwill. It seems to have a bit of mildew, and I was wondering how best to clean it. Thanks!

[Soulbear]

Hi There thelace43
The Forum Search Function is your friend, Take a look here
.lathetrolls.com/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=8777&p=55881&hilit=Cleaning+old+Laquers#p55881
Regards Soulbear

[emorritt]

It's most likely not mildew; it's palmitic acid leaching from the lacquer coating. This happens after a number of years. The best way to clean this off is to use household ammonia. Dampen a soft terry cloth (not microfiber) towel or washrag with it and apply to the disc in a circular motion. Allow it to sit for a minute or two, then dry it off with a dry towel. Rinse lightly by the same method with plain water and dry. Let the disc completely dry before playing it.

You can also use Windex, which contains ammonia; this was first suggested to me by an archivist years ago, but I've had longer lasting results with plain household ammonia.