If your piano is dusty, it’s probably a sign that it’s been too long since it was last used. Clean your piano off and start practicing again! Our tips will make getting a clean piano quick and simple and have you playing again in no time.

 

A clean piano is important in a healthy home.

 

General Tips

Follow these tips to make sure you clean your piano correctly and don’t damage your instrument.

  1. Never scrub your piano vigorously. You can scratch the surface of your piano.
  2. We do not recommend polishing your piano. You can ruin the finish on the piano, soften the wood, or create streaks.
  3. Do not spray liquid on the piano. Liquid between the keys will affect their movement. Liquid near the tuning pins will affect the piano’s ability to hold a tune.
  4. Ascertain whether the keys are made of plastic or ivory. This will determine how you clean them.
  5. Do not use alcohol to clean the piano. It will ruin both the keys and the finish.
  6. Keep your piano away from heat and direct sunlight.

 

How to Dust

Dust the piano before you attempt any other cleaning. To do this, simply go over the surface with a soft cloth or feather duster. Start from the top and work your way down.

 

How to Clean Piano Keys

Ivory keys: There are several ways to clean and whiten yellowed ivory keys. One of the gentlest methods to clean ivory keys is to rub them using a white vinyl eraser. Do so gently and without too much pressure. Collect all the eraser shavings. You can also try Groomstik, a sticky rubber product that will pull dirt off your keys. This product is used by conservators, so check with local museums.

Another method is to use toothpaste. Apply a small amount of plain white toothpaste to a clean cloth and gently rub this over the keys. Wipe away the toothpaste with a cloth dampened with milk, then clean the keys with a dry cloth.

  • Milk is very slightly acidic, which will eat away at yellow ivory stains, while its calcium and fatty acids will help to protect the ivory.
  • You can fit thin pieces of cardboard between the keys to prevent liquid from getting in between them.

Plastic Keys: Use a solution of equal parts water and vinegar. Apply it to a clean cloth and gently wipe down the keys. Be careful to not let liquid between the keys. Wipe with a dry cloth to finish.

 

How to Clean Piano Pedals

All that is needed for this chore is a simple wipe-down with a clean dry cloth. Don’t forget the underside of the pedals as well.

 

How to Clean the Finish

Fingerprints and smudges ruin the look of an elegant piano. To get rid of them, dust the surface. If you use a damp cloth to dust, make sure the cloth is only barely damp and made of a soft material. Coarse fabrics will scratch the surface. Wipe dry immediately after.

 

A Clean Piano for Practice and Performance!

Now that your piano looks lovely, you should use it to fill your home with lovely music. Do you have an orchestra’s worth of instruments that need cleaning? Check out our tips on how to clean other musical instruments.