Stylus cleaners

I use a Winsor-Newton series 7 Kolinsky (weasel hair) #2 watercolor brush. The cuticle structure of the outside of the hair has a "scaly" structure under a microscope which allows the hair to be flexible while still allowing it to absorb water. I suspect the cuticle structure is also ever so slightly abrasive, which might aid in removing gunk. I keep the brush in the plastic tube it came with to avoid dust. I clean it with distilled water.

To use it, I gently stroke it on the stylus. That seems to remove most gunk and accumulated debris. Sometimes I will dip it in distilled water if I feel the need. I inspect the stylus (occasionally) with a 10x jewelers loupe.

Occasionally I will use Mofi LP9 if I suspect some extra pernicious gunk is stuck to the stylus. I also keep my records clean, use a Zero-stat if I notice static, and use a carbon fiber brush before playing a record.

I also have a dustcover on my SL 1200 GR which stays on all the time (even when playing records). I have two Golden Retrievers (sometimes three) living with me; a dustcover is essential for me!

@richardbrand 

"I did pop into IKEA and snagged one of these lamps.  Got out in half an hour.  Most of the time was looking for a staff member - I found the lamps on display but the boxes were nowhere near for the Navlinge with clamps!

It comes with its own Chinese wall-wart ...

Thanks again for the tip"

Use it in good health sir! I hope you find it as practical as the one I use.

@pindac the risk of damaging a cartridge decreases when you’re using purpose built tools. Yes accidents can happen. And by using methods and tools that don’t belong anywhere near a phono cartridge you’re exponentially increasing your chances of “mangling” your cartridge.
I appreciate everyone’s contribution to this thread that actually turned out to be educational and helpful to me and hopefully to others who will be researching the subject in the future. This is what the forums are all about. Stay positive and continue to share your experience. 

@lalitk I decided to return the Lepro light due to it being a liability around my components with the base that can’t be secured in place.
Search for the light continues... 

@audphile1 

I’ve ordered the Reliable UberLight 7200TL LED light and expect it to arrive by Friday. I’ll report back on whether it earns a permanent spot in my man cave.