Head Cleaning Fluid

Tech Wipes work well, too.

Make sure alcohol content is 99% or higher to avoid oxidation due to residual water standing on the head for prolong period of time. Drug store sells both 99+% & 70% alcohol, 70% is for disinfecting (99% alcohol is not effective in killing germs).

I have a restored Teac Reel to Reel.Only use a cleaner recommended for the rubber rollers.If you use Alcohol in any form for the rollers they will dry out and crack.Use MG Chemicals Rubber Renue.This is a rubber restorer and works great on pinch rollers and other rubber parts.
I picked mine up at the local electronic shop.
The Last Company may still sell a tape head cleaner.I know they use to sell a specialised cleaner for the heads that would reduce wow and flutter across the heads as well.
Michael Percy may have this in his catalog.I know Radio Shack sells tape head cleaner as well.

I am an avid reel to reel listener and I use something that was recommended to me by a videophile. This is called
Head & Disc cleaner by a Co. called Rite Off. Their telephone # is (800) 645-5853. It evoperates very quickly and cleans well. A can will last you for years. I like the rubber renue mentioned by 76doublebass, I will try to get some of that too.

One of the best, if not the best currently available, is Professional Audio Tape Head Cleaning Fluid, #S-721H. It is not alcohol based.

The label reads: “S-721H is formulated to clean audio, video and computer tape heads, tape guides, capstans and pinch rollers. S-721`H will removr tape oxides, tape adhesives, soils, oils, waxes, greases and other various contaminants while still maintaining the desirable properties of low toxicity…Unlike alcohol, S-721H is non-hygroscopic, eliminating moisture or residue which can settle on components. This will promote extended life and healthy texture to the pinch roller.”

I have no affiliation with the manufacturer.

http://americanrecorder.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=12&products_id=97

I also like the MG Chemicals products: ie, Rubber renue and Tape Head Cleaner. You can do a google search for “MG Chemicals.” YMMV.

Jon