Clean Piano Keys! Easy Steps!

Clean Piano Keys! Easy Steps!If you are a regular piano player you will be aware of the fact that maintaining the piano in great shape for an extended period means regular maintenance and cleaning the piano when required. A clean piano is key to proper and long term maintenance. One of the more significant tasks included in the maintenance process is cleaning the piano keys. Dust, dirt, and the oils from your skin can get collected on the keys thereby making them look dingy. Cleaning the piano keys is pretty easy and it leads to keys like new.

Cleaning the piano keys

Before you get down to cleaning the piano keys it is a good idea to dust-off them so the dust on the surface is removed. You can do this in between sessions as well by using a duster, soft-bristled brush, or a soft paintbrush. Brush down to push the dust away from the piano keys. If you are just looking to disinfect the piano keys, get the help of filtered water and white vinegar to wipe them. You can use flannels or cheesecloth to wipe down vertically. Take time in between the wipes to allow the keys to dry out. Keep in mind to change the cloth for black and white keys.

The solution made from white vinegar and warm water is the best method for cleaning plastic keys as anything else cannot be used for plastic, not even soap. Ensure that you are using just a little bit. You need one part vinegar with four parts of water. There is an acid in the vinegar therefore too much use can damage the keys. If you are cleaning the ivory piano keys you can use a mild solution of warm water with a bit of dish soap. Ensure that you are using a white cloth for the purpose so that other colors cannot be bled on to the white keys. Use brushing movements while wiping and do not use scrubbing like motions that may cause damage.

Cleaning ivory keys

You may use white toothpaste for cleaning ivory keys but ensure that you are using normal white toothpaste. Colored toothpaste and gels discolor and corrode the ivory. It will help you in whitening the keys. Another method for cleaning the ivory keys could be moving them in direct sunlight as it can bleach the keys to make them look white again.

There is another method for having clean piano keys and it is using a white vinyl eraser and rubbing it down all the white keys ensuring that every key is wiped independently to avoid the eraser bits getting inside the keys. You may also use yogurt or mayonnaise for whitening the ivory keys as these foods bleach the ivory effectively and gently. Keep in mind to buff the keys by using a dry cloth to remove all the food residues later.

If you have an antique piano you may wish to take the opinion of a professional before attempting to clean the piano independently. If you fail to be careful you will risk the piano by using improper cleaning techniques. Experts such as Tampa Piano Tuning can provide more knowledge about the piano and you will end up having learned new things about the piano.

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