Okki Nokki Record Cleaning Strips
Okki Nokki Record Cleaning Strips Velvet Strips
On a record cleaning machine, the suction arm never touches bare vinyl: a velvet covering bonded underneath the arm acts as a buffer between the plastic and the record surface. These replacement strips replace this velvet once it becomes compressed, dirty or loose. Your Okki Nokki machine’s arm regains strong suction and once again leaves a dry record, with no traces of liquid, after every wash.
Velvet, the contact point between the arm and the record
During the drying phase, the motor draws up the cleaning fluid and the dirt it has loosened from deep within the grooves. For the vacuum to act on the record surface rather than draw in surrounding air, the arm must form a tight seal against the vinyl. The velvet fibres conform to the contours of the surface and close the gap between the arm and the record, concentrating suction where the liquid and dust are. The velvet also cushions contact: no rigid edge rubs directly against the vinyl. The strips are made of black velvet, are self-adhesive, and are sold in sets of two.
A consumable that wears out with repeated cleaning
With every record, the velvet rubs against the surface, absorbs a little moisture and traps some of the particles drawn up. Over time, the pile flattens, loses density and seals the gap beneath the arm less effectively. Expect to replace it every 50 to 100 records cleaned, or sooner if the velvet looks flattened, sheds fluff, peels at the edges or retains embedded dirt. Another telltale sign: one or two platter revolutions are normally enough to dry a record, and vinyl that stays wet beyond that often indicates velvet that no longer provides a proper seal. Extending suction to compensate does not help, as drying for too long builds up static electricity on the record.
A few steps to preserve the velvet
Routine care takes place at the end of each session. Wipe the strips with your fingertips or a soft toothbrush to prevent dirt from building up in the pile, then remove the arm from its socket and leave it to dry flat on the machine’s platter. This step also matters for the warranty: on the Okki Nokki One, an arm left in its socket after use is no longer covered. During washing, avoid resting the arm on the record: the velvet would become saturated with liquid, whereas it stays dry or nearly dry when the arm is only used during suction. Finally, remember to handle the arm by its ends, as oils from your fingers settle on the velvet and end up on the records.
Compatibility and fitting to the suction arm
The strips fit the suction arms of Okki Nokki record cleaning machines, including the current Okki Nokki One, with its single arm for 30, 25 and 17 cm records. No tools are needed for fitting. With the machine switched off, remove the arm, peel off the old strips and remove any adhesive residue without scratching the plastic. Once the arm is clean and completely dry, apply each strip carefully aligned in its position, then press along its entire length so that the adhesive bonds evenly. A poorly bonded edge lets air through and reduces suction.
Technical specifications
Description and function
- Set of two replacement velvet strips for the suction arm of a record cleaning machine.
- Ensure an optimal suction seal for maximum dirt removal.
Maintenance
- Replacement recommended after cleaning 50 records.
Frequently asked questions
Can the strips be washed instead of replaced?
Regular wiping removes surface dirt and extends their lifespan, but no amount of washing will lift flattened pile or restore the velvet’s density. Washing with water mainly risks weakening the adhesive. Once the velvet is worn, only replacement restores the arm’s seal.
Can worn velvet damage records?
The velvet itself is soft and does not scratch the vinyl. The risk comes from hard particles that become embedded in dirty pile and then rub against it with each pass. This is why it should be wiped down after each session and replaced before too long.
Does the cleaning fluid damage the velvet?
During normal use, the suction power keeps the velvet dry or almost dry, as the liquid is drawn through the slot in the arm. The velvet becomes soaked and wears out faster when the arm is left resting on the record during the washing phase, or when suction is restarted on an already dry record.
Why does the record remain wet after vacuuming?
Worn or partially detached velvet is the most common cause. Also check the amount of liquid applied: it is best to start with a little liquid and add more if needed. Finally, check that the arm is properly engaged in its working position, above the platter and pointing towards the central spindle.
Are these strips compatible with machines from other brands?
They are sized to fit Okki Nokki suction arms. On another machine, the shape and length of the arm differ, and an ill-fitting strip would not properly seal the gap beneath the arm.
How long should I wait after installation before starting a wash?
The adhesive holds immediately if applied to a clean, dry arm, but letting it rest for a few minutes after firmly pressing the strip along its entire length ensures a stronger bond, especially at the ends.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
