In a breakthrough that will delight VHS collectors and enthusiasts, a 3D-printed VHS cleaner has been designed to remove mold and debris from old analog tapes, making it possible to revive cherished memories that were previously at risk of being lost forever.

The innovative machine, created by Tony Crouch of VHSisLife.com, addresses a common problem faced by those who own analog tapes: mold that develops inside the cassette cartridge, often as a result of being stored in damp basements and attics for years. This mold can damage VCRs and render the tapes unplayable. Existing cleaning methods were either cumbersome or risky, but Crouch's solution provides a simple and efficient way to clean moldy tapes.

The VHS mold cleaner consists of a 3D-printed case holding two spindles attached to motors, where the VHS spools are placed. The analog tape is strung along a post holding a cleaning pad, which grabs the mold and other unwanted particles while the spindles transfer the tape. A directional switch dictates the direction of the spindles, and a control knob adjusts the motor speed. The machine also features a vacuum attachment to suck up the mold that falls off the tape, making it a comprehensive cleaning solution.

The impact of this innovation has been significant, with over 600 units shipped since its announcement in May 2024. The machine has also gained popularity among archivists, with appearances on the Smithsonian Libraries and Archives Instagram page and in several universities and museums for archival projects. Crouch has also started selling 3D-printed spindles for other analog video formats, making the machine even more accessible to a wider range of users.

The timing of this innovation is critical, as VHS tapes are prone to degradation over time, with magnetic particles separating from the tape after about 25 years. The VHS cleaner has already saved numerous home memories, and its potential to preserve analog media for future generations is vast. Crouch's creation has turned his hobby into a business that serves a niche community, and he is now exploring possibilities for a second version of the machine.

At its core, the VHS cleaner is about preserving memories and keeping them out of the trash. As Crouch notes, "I just want to see as many tapes and home memories, whether it's a Friday the 13th or your kid's birthday, let's keep it out of the trash and keep it for years to come." With the VHS cleaner, it seems that this goal is now within reach.