Can I clean my records manually?


Well, I know I can but, will this method yield acceptable results for approximately 6 months until I get a record cleaner? If so, I imagine I need a cleaning fluid and some type of a brush or rag. Can anyone recommend a method. Also, am I correct in assuming that the only value an automatic cleaner provides is convenience?

Further, can a dirty record damage a cartridge? I can't see how it would since dirt is softer than the vinyl grooves and lots softer than a diamond.

Am I that ignorant? Please, let me down easy.

thanx
pawlowski6132
Audiofeil,that's what suspected. However, as I meant to say earlier, I was looking for someone to give specific reaons why machines worked better.
When you need the automobile really neat and clean, do you go to the car wash or do it yourself? Done deal.
Audiofeil, I doubt you can guarantee that your records are just as clean. What would you use as proof?

All that I can say without further proof is that I found the records cleaned with the Loricraft were freer of pops and clicks and had greater resolution than those cleaned with the VPI.

I have also owned Nitty Gritty, several models of the VPI, and long ago a Keith Monks machine.

It all well and good to save money and to be satisfied with your cleaning methods, but stop the nonsense of saying you will guarantee it is as good as any record cleaning machine. In my experience, this is just not so nor will I guarantee that that I can prove to you that my records are cleaner. They just sound cleaner.
Actually TBG I was incorrect in my previous post. My records are cleaner than those processed on a Monks or Loricraft. I guarantee it. They are, however, nice machines.
Thanks again.