What is a good way to clean analog cassette tape heads?

Image depicting a cotton swap on the rec/play head Keeping the tape heads in a clean condition is essential to the proper operation of the recorder. Accumulations of dust and tape oxides on the heads will result in sound drop outs, a loss of high frequencies and excessive tape wear.

To clean the heads:

  1. Press the EJECT button to open the Cassette Compartment Lid.
  2. Remove the cassette, it present.
  3. Depress the FWD button to move the heads out for easier
  4. Slightly moisten a cotton swab or a soft cloth with a denatured alcohol, and gently wipe the heads, Capstan and Pinch Roller over which the tape travels. Don't soak the swab in alcohol; the adhesive used to hold the cotton to the swab can become a residue on the heads from the solvent properties of denatured alcohol.
  5. Avoid catching the cotton between the Pinch Roller and Capstan. Using the PAUSE button is recommended.
  6. Press the STOP button to release the FWD button.