Ways to Keep Your Piano Clean without Damaging it

By Adriana Noton

Those who have a piano know what a joy playing it can be. Learning to play the piano is a tradition in many families that is passed down from generation to generation. Much like any other musical instrument, one has to take care of it to ensure it lasts. One such method of care is regularly cleaning the piano without causing any damage.

The following is list of tips on how to keep your piano clean without damaging it:

1. Over time, piano keys, especially those made with ivory can accumulate dirt and oily fingerprint stains. Use a lint free cloth to wipe the keys.

2. Use a soft cloth that has been dipped in a mixture of warm water and a gentle soap or white toothpaste for washing ivory keys. For plastic keys, use warm water mixed with vinegar. Make sure the cloth is damp, not soaked, as you do not want any solution running in between the keys and into the piano. A mild soap or moist cloth with dish detergent can help remove tough to clean stains.

3. Completely dry the keys with a soft dry cloth. If you are using white toothpaste to clean the ivory keys, you can remove the toothpaste after rubbing by wiping the keys with a soft cloth that has been dipped in milk. It is better to use milk because chemicals from cleaners can damage the keys.

4. When cleaning a piano's wood finish, gently wipe the piano with a soft lint free cloth. Then use soft cotton that has been dipped in warm water to wipe down the piano. Make sure the cotton is moist, and not soaked.

5. Use a piano polisher to polish the piano. There are special polishes for pianos that are designed not to damage the piano. Do not use any aerosol spray that contains chemicals such as silicone as they can damage the piano.

6. To reduce the amount of dust from accumulating on the keys as well as any damage from occurring, keep the keyboard cover closed when not in use. As well, keep the keys out of the sun as it will yellow the keys.

7. Use a humidifier to keep moisture from getting inside the piano. High humidly can damage the piano and cause changes to its tuning. As well, the strings can rust when there is moisture.

Regularly wiping the piano with lint free cloth will help prevent dirt and dust build up. Don't clean the inside of the piano because it contains a mesh of strings, sensitive components, and components that can move and break easily. Hire a professional piano technician as they can clean it without causing any damage.

Pianos have become a well loved addition to millions of homes. To keep your piano in good condition and the tuning at optimum levels, it is recommended that you regularly maintain your piano with proper cleaning methods and have it serviced by a professional. It will help you enjoy this wonderful instrument for many years. - 32526

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here