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The exterior cabinet and display panel on a VCR should be dusted regularly. Cover VCRs when not in use to keep dust out of the cabinet interior, where it can cause all sorts of problems with video heads and other components. Another way to combat dust is to place the unit inside an equipment cabinet and keep the cabinet door closed as much as possible.
Clean smudges and fingerprints off the cabinet and display panel by unplugging the unit and using a small amount of all-purpose cleaner applied to a damp (not wet), soft cloth. Then wring the cloth with fresh water and go over the cabinet again to remove any residue. Dry with a soft cloth. Don’t spray any liquid toward, onto or into a VCR or any other electrical appliance. Apply it to the cloth instead.
Don’t leave videotapes partially engaged in the open door of a VCR to cut down on dust infiltration. Remove tapes completely, or engage them in the transport mechanism completely if you have programmed scheduled tapings, so that the spring-loaded videocassette door stays closed as much as possible. Always store videotapes in cardboard jackets or storage cases when not in use.
Follow manufacturer instructions on caring for video heads inside the cabinet. Care instructions will be outlined in the owner’s manual. Some makers recommend the use of VCR cleaning tapes, while others don’t.
Reference:
Consumer Reports editors in How to Clean and Care for Practically Anything.
