How To Fix a Hallmark Recordable Book

Storytime with the kids is most parents' favourite time of the day. However, sometimes circumstances may cause you to miss their bedtime story, whether it be work, travel, or a special occasion requiring you to get a babysitter.

Thankfully, this Recordable book from Hallmark is a beautiful, high-quality gift you can give to your children. You can tell them how much you love them, no matter where you are. But what if your recordable book is no longer working? Is there a way for it to function again?

Well, you've come to the right place as we’ve got an answer to that. We'll give you a few tips and tricks as to how to repair this precious book so you can hear the voice of your loved ones again.

How Do Hallmark Recordable Books Work?

Avoid recording under direct or bright light, and find a quiet place to record.

Lay the book flat. Open the Hallmark recordable storybook and press the "REC" button (leftmost of the two buttons, nearest the speaker).

Be sure to read slowly and enunciate the words with clarity. Press "STOP" at the end of each page and wait to hear the playback.

If you like what you hear, simply turn the page to continue. If you don't, re-record the page. Individual pages can be re-recorded.

After reading the entire book, save the recordings by sliding the switch to the "LOCKED" position.

When you open the book, your voice recording and the prerecorded music will play automatically, page by page.

Note: Save the recording onto a different application or on a computer to have backup data of the recording.

Fixing The Hallmark Recordable Book

If your recordable book is no longer working, it is likely a problem with the batteries. Most books can be fixed by cleaning the battery corrosion and replacing the batteries.

Cleaning The Battery Compartment

Before cleaning, you must know that a corroded Alkaline battery is highly toxic. It will burn your skin and harm your eyes. It would also be wise to wear gloves, a face mask, and eye protection.

What you will need:

  • Screwdriver
  • Coke
  • White Vinegar
  • Cotton Swabs
  • Paper Towel
  • Tin Foil 

How To Clean The Compartments

First, pour some vinegar into a small container. And with a screwdriver, remove the cover of your battery compartment. Use the screwdriver to take the batteries out, and put them in sand or kitty litter in a sealable plastic bag.

Sometimes the batteries can be so corroded that they virtually weld themselves to the terminals. Pour a few drops of Coke over the battery and let it soak for a while. The acidity in Coke will neutralize the corrosion around the battery.

Next, dip your Q-tip in the vinegar and gently rub the corrosion and any part that has buildup. The whitish, crusty discharge should start to bubble and disintegrate. Frequently change out the cotton swab for a new one.

Address lingering residue with a toothpick. Use a clean swab to access tight areas and soak up any excess vinegar. And rinse with water-soaked cotton swabs.

Once you've cleaned the affected area, dab it with a paper towel. Allow the device to dry completely before putting in new batteries.

Putting In New Batteries

Take a small tin foil, about ¾ inch x ½ inch in size. And fold the shiny side twice. The size should be sufficient to put in the middle piece if the rivet that links two batteries is eroded and will not connect the circuit.

Then put the small tin foil and fold it right over the centre piece. If it doesn't work, cut a longer piece of tin foil. Place it in the tiny side opening of the battery compartment and run it across. You need to ensure it covers the part with the spring and the contact of the other side.

Take your new batteries - do not mix old and new or different battery types. Then, place the cover back on.

And now it's back to life. It's Storytime!

Hopefully, you’ll find this article and the instructions helpful. If you find an old book from a loved one and want to get the recorded audio to work again, this trivial hack will come in handy.

If you want to erase all recordings, slide the switch to UNLOCK. Press REC and STOP simultaneously for 4 seconds. Then create another recording.

Need a New Storybook?

If you’ve tried this and still haven’t had any luck, consider buying a new Hallmark recording book. Visit our store and browse our selection of recordable books for everything you need to feel connected to your loved ones that are far away.

Whether you buy a Hallmark Recordable Storybook for your child, a family member, or a friend, you are gifting them with a timeless and lovely keepsake.

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