Please simplify Disc Doctor Cleaner w/ VPI 16.5

*I prefer to wash it manually using a dd brush, rinse manually using another dd brush, and only then put it on the vpi; that is, using the vpi only for final rinse or two with vacuum.
**Thanks, I was mainly trying to get an idea what the general preferance was.I figured some used the RCM, but others did it manually.

*Sounds like you are stuck in record cleaning hell.
** I just think if there are differences to be heard, it is worth the second step. At the same time, I don't want to get too crazy with it.

Sounds like you are stuck in record cleaning hell. I suggest you buy a large bottle of Nitty Gritty Pure 2 and give the record a thorough one-step cleaning and vacuum. I think it works great on records without any unusual problems, which may require more specialized care.

There are those who prefer to spend more time cleaning than listening, which is fine - do whatever makes you happy. But if you actually enjoy music, try stepping back and starting over with a simplified procedure.

I prefer to wash it manually using a dd brush, rinse manually using another dd brush, and only then put it on the vpi; that is, using the vpi only for final rinse or two with vacuum

Thanks ! I did buy two DD brushes, one to apply the Miracle cleaner, and the other to apply the rinse H20. I plan to label ea. Brush, So I don't mix them up. As I mentioned, I did get the extra VPI Vac wand + extra strips to replace the older felt on my current arm tube.I will give the DD a try, and see what the results are. Doug, what you mentioned about the DD stuff being tough to rinse seems to echo what others have said on older threads.FWIW, I have always used RRL, now MFSL one step w/ no rinsing.

The part of this I may not have right is step 2. I wasn't sure if I should spread the Miracle Cleaner on the VPI while the platter is turning, or just on a flat surface.

What difference? Always try to think from the point of view of the groove. Imagine you're a speck of crud nestled down inside there, comfy and dry. Whether the VPI moves the record or some guy's hand moves the brush the result from your speckly POV is the same: a soggy brush squidges past overhead and you get soaked.

We normally slide the mop over a stationary floor, but only because it's easier. Sliding the floor beneath a stationary mop would provide exactly the same effect. From the point of view of a speck of dirt on the floor, the two operations are quite indistinguishable.

More important is the point Wntrmute2 made: NEVER re-use a brush or vacuum wand for a later solution. Whether you use 2 solutions (as you're doing), three solutions (as Wntrmute2 described) or five solutions (as I do), every step needs a dedicated brush and vacuum wand. Sharing brushes or wands between solutions contaminates the latter step with muck from the earlier. If you washed your hands with a soapy brush would you "rinse" them with the same soapy (and now grunge-filled) brush?

Also agree with his advice about rinsing twice, especially with DD cleaning fluid. That has a reputation for being difficult to rinse and, FWIW, many regulars here have found other solutions that clean better.

While I don't use the DD solutions, you can do either, applying fluids while turning or with the platter stopped. I do it while turning as well as spreading the fluid with the brushes while turning. With my 16.5, I vacuum the fluids off with a wand specifically for each fluid. Absolutely vacuum the cleaner off before your rinse. Do the rinse times 2. Most seem to think it makes a difference. The way you describe the changing of the brushes sounds wrong but I cant really sus what your saying out. If you are using 2 fluids, get 2 brushes and 2 wands and keep them for each fluid.