Do I need to spend money on anti-static liquid?

Do I need to spend money on anti-static liquid?

After developing our own formula and receiving very positive feedback, we believe this information should be freely accessible. Therefore, we will no longer sell the liquid but will instead provide a guide on our website on how to make it. The process is straightforward and cost-effective. There is absolutely no reason for you to buy this with a 500% mark up from certain suppliers.

 

Here’s the formula:
- 75% Isopropyl Alcohol
- 25% Distilled Water

 

If you search for ‘Vinyl Record Anti Static Liquid’, you’ll find all companies using the same ingredients. The key is in the mix. Most commercially available anti static liquids for records use a mix of 20% Isopropyl Alcohol and 80% Distilled Water. While this works, the extra water results in this slower evaporation and potential water marks, which are the streaks you might see on your discs, possibly along with other added ingredients.

 

A common myth is the use of anti static agents like detergent or fabric softener. While effective for materials like cotton, they do not benefit this application. Our goal is to eliminate static and achieve fast evaporation. Isopropyl Alcohol does both. The water merely extends the solution or reduces its potency in your workspace. Some suggest adding detergent to create a film on the disc, but based on our research and information from plastic manufacturers, this has no logical effect and could even coat the diamond stylus in this film.

 

Finally, Isopropyl Alcohol is a solvent, so if you use a strong mix, ensure your studio is well-ventilated. You can experiment with weaker mixes but we recommend not going below a 50/50 ratio. Also, for anyone wondering, Isopropyl and Isopropanol Alcohol is the same thing.

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