Cleaning records. How often really?

What I hear so far is the opposite but just as extreme approach to cleaning records before each play. This is unlikely to be correct, especially if you have a high resolution system and good hearring.

Dear Inna,
You've just forced me to publish (check out the new thread) :)

Cheers,

FWIW, I have cleaned all my LPs with an ultrasonic system, applied LAST mold release (only to new, sealed & unplayed records), treated them with LAST preservative and used a ZeroStat before putting them in anti-static sleeves. I still use an old-school Discwasher brush with LAST standard cleaning fluid before every play, and have for 30+ years. All of my records still sound like new and are virtually dead silent. Almost everyone else here will disagree in one or more particulars, but what I do works for me.

You pays your money and takes your chances. Good luck & happy listening!

After a good initial cleaning on an RCM, all you should have to do is use a good carbon brush before - - - and after - - - each play (as Mofimadness said). And, as others have said, after the initial cleaning make sure you store the record in a clean inner sleeve.

Or course, accidents sometimes happen, and if the cat happens to barf on the record, you'll need to start anew.

The worst idea is to professionally clean record before each play.
Think about the stress to the record first. The less the longer the better.