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ArtVandelay@lemmy.world

Guitar cleaning tips? (lemmy.world)

submitted 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago) by emb@lemmy.world to c/guitars@lemmy.world

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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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[–] homesweethomeMrL@lemmy.world 2 points 1 week ago

As someone else said, I’m just some dog on the internet, but the simple truth is guitars don’t usually “need” cleaning. Some players like Mike Campbell actually make a point of not cleaning the maple fretboard. New strings every so often is really all it “needs”.

That said, a soft cloth is the best “tool”, and as for cleaner, the truth is spit is perfect for general use. If you really wanna get the grime out of corners and things (where’s the guitar been it’s got so much grime on it?) then yeah lots of specially marketed cleaners are available.

I use these a lot: They’re fine and clean well and disposable afterwards. I have a friend who swears by lemon oil for the fretboard, but I’ve found that’s only useful on the more uncoated / porous type of boards.

Have fun, that’s the main thing!