HumminGuru I-BRUSH

HumminGuru I-BRUSH: double-pad vinyl cleaning

Following the success of its ultrasonic cleaner launched via Kickstarter in 2021, HumminGuru is expanding its range with the I-BRUSH, a manual pre-cleaning kit for vinyl records. The Hong Kong brand, a subsidiary of HappyWell International Enterprises, designed this accessory to address a simple issue: preparing records before a quick listening session or before an ultrasonic bath, without the drawbacks of traditional brushes.

A double-pad system that avoids cross-contamination

Classic wet brushes, descendants of the Discwasher from the 1970s, share a recurring flaw: the same pad is used to apply the liquid and absorb it. After several uses, the pad becomes saturated and can redeposit impurities onto subsequent records. HumminGuru addresses this problem by physically separating the two functions.

The orange pad, made of ultra-fine microfiber velvet, absorbs the cleaning fluid and applies it to the record surface. The blue pad, with an identical texture, removes excess fluid and dries the surface. This separation reduces the risk of transferring dirt from one record to another, a valuable advantage when cleaning several vinyl records in succession.

Both pads are flexible enough to follow the groove’s curve without applying excessive pressure. Cleaning is carried out in the direction of the groove, using concentric circular motions.

Integrated dosing in the holder

The brush holder serves several functions. Its central groove, calibrated to hold exactly the required amount of liquid, acts as a measuring reservoir. A few drops are placed in it using the supplied pipette, then the orange pad is pressed against the groove to soak the velvet evenly.

This system eliminates spray application, a source of waste and accidental splashing onto the label or the turntable. Dosage control is visual: a line of liquid appears in the groove, and you immediately know whether the amount is correct.

The holder also incorporates a scraper to remove dust and clean the pads after use, a feature that extends their lifespan. Finally, it serves as a drying station: the brush is placed on it with the pads facing upward for air drying between sessions.

An alcohol-free fluid, and that matters

The supplied 50 ml bottle contains an alcohol-free solution, specifically formulated for vinyl. This choice is not trivial. Records are made of PVC, a plastic that is sensitive to the isopropyl alcohol found in many cleaners. Over time, alcohol can soften the PVC, cause warping, or alter the grooves.

The HumminGuru formula has antistatic properties that limit dust from reaccumulating after cleaning. The dropper bottle allows precise, drop-by-drop dosing.

A pre-cleaning kit, not deep cleaning

HumminGuru is clear about the purpose of the I-BRUSH: it removes visible dust, surface micro-particles, static electricity, and fingerprints. It does not claim to reach the bottom of the grooves. For deep cleaning, capable of dislodging embedded particles, an ultrasonic bath is required.

The I-BRUSH comes into its own as a companion to the HumminGuru ultrasonic cleaner. By removing the “bulk” of the dirt before the bath stage, it helps preserve the machine’s filters and improves the effectiveness of ultrasonic cleaning. The two products work in tandem rather than in competition.

Used on its own, the I-BRUSH is suitable for quick cleaning before each listening session, comparable to a pass with a carbon brush but with the added benefit of an antistatic fluid.

Technical Specifications

Description

• Type: pre-cleaning kit for microgroove records
• Compatibility: LP / EP vinyl records

Brushing System

• Dual ultra-velvet pad with separate functions
  • Orange pad: absorbs liquid and cleans the record
  • Blue pad: absorbs excess liquid and dries
• Minimal risk of cross-contamination thanks to the separation of functions
• Cleaning in the direction of the groove for optimal surface treatment
• Ergonomic handle for easier grip

Liquid Dispensing System

• Fill line integrated into the brush holder for precise dosing
• Design allowing even absorption and distribution of the fluid over the pad
• Eliminates the constraints associated with spray application
• Alcohol-free cleaning liquid included in the kit

Brush Holder

• Air-drying function
• Brush storage function
• Integrated scraper for dust removal and pad cleaning
• Brush wringing directly on the holder

Instructions for Use

• Place the appropriate amount of liquid in the brush holder using the pipette included in the bottle
• Absorb the liquid with the orange pad, then clean the record in the direction of the groove
• Absorb excess liquid with the blue pad
• Wring the brush on the holder and let it dry

Box Contents

• HumminGuru I-Brush
• Cleaning liquid for vinyl records (50 ml)
• Brush holder