In this video I’m talking about the one record-cleaning tool I think everyone should own: a carbon fiber brush. And just to be clear, this is not how you “deep clean” filthy records—this is how you remove everyday dust and static right before you play a side. It’s inexpensive, it takes a few seconds, and it’s one of the easiest ways to protect your stylus and get better sound (less pops, less crackles) even on brand new pressings that come out of the sleeve with dust and static. I show you my routine step-by-step: put the record on the platter, spin it (but don’t drop the needle), hold the brush by the body/handle (don’t touch the bristles), and let it gently touch the grooves with basically no pressure. I also cover the big debate: how to lift the brush off the record. I explain three approaches—moving toward the spindle, moving outward, or lifting straight up—and why each has pros/cons, especially when it comes to static and accidentally contaminating the brush on the label. If you’re still seeing dirt after brushing, that’s your sign you need a proper wet clean—don’t try to force a carbon brush to do a job it’s not meant to do.