this post was submitted on 14 Feb 2026
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I know this is probably beyond a dumb question I'm overthinking, but any special considerations to take when cleaning a guitar?

Finally had a string pop on my main electric after like 10 years, figured I should just replace that whole set. And while they're off, might as well give a nice touch up all around.

The basic obvious approach I have in mind is to use combos of paper towels, q-tips, warm soapy water, and isopropyl to remove any gunk I can see in any crevices, wipe down the surfaces, maybe polish any metal.

Any spots I might overlook? Do I need to be worried about water or alcohol coming in contact with the fretboard or any part of it?

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[–] GrindingGears@lemmy.ca 3 points 1 week ago

If your strings are 10 years old, it's going to need a hell of a cleaning.

I generally like the music nomad kits, they are a bit pricey for what they are, but they are convenient if not anything else. You will want the Frine Fret polishing kit, because those frets just have to be nasty. You'll also want to grab their cleaning spray, which is a good all-rounder. If you have the budget they also have this cleaning spade that's good for getting under the strings and the fretboard when you still have strings on, like it's good for maintenance cleans while it's strung, but it's not necessary either. Just nice to have.

Start with the fretboard and move down. Clean the frets, and oil it (theres youtube videos for everything).

If you don't want to spend the money, at a minimum get a bottle of cleaner and a bottle of a fretboard cleaner if it's rosewood - if it's maple just use the general cleaner sparingly. You can use autosol and a rag to clean the frets on the cheap, but tape your fretboard up before you do (that's why those music nomad fret guards are worth their weight in gold).

Otherwise it's just common sense. Use a good microfiber cloth if you don't want micro scratches (like the ones that come with reading glasses).