Whether you're strumming in the living room or gigging on stage, your guitar deserves a little TLC now and then. A clean guitar not only looks the part, it sounds and feels better too. So, if your strings are feeling a bit dull or your fretboard’s looking grubby, here are a few simple tips to get things back in shape.
1. Wipe it Down After You Play
It sounds basic, but a quick wipe after each session can go a long way. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to remove sweat, fingerprints, and dust. Pay special attention to the strings, neck, and body, the bits that take the most contact.
2. Clean Your Fretboard
If your fretboard is looking dry or has visible grime, it's time for a deeper clean. Loosen or remove the strings and use a slightly damp cloth or a dedicated fretboard cleaner (depending on whether it's rosewood, maple, or ebony, each needs slightly different care). For rosewood or ebony boards, a dab of lemon oil works wonders to rehydrate and condition the wood.
3. Polish the Body (But Gently)
Always use polish made specifically for guitars, furniture polish is a big no-no! Spray it onto a cloth (not directly onto the guitar) and gently buff the body to bring back that shine. If your guitar has a satin finish, skip the polish and just stick to dry wiping.
4. Don’t Forget the Hardware
Chrome bridges, tuners, and pickups can collect dust and fingerprints too. Use a dry cloth or a tiny bit of guitar-safe cleaner to give them a once-over. A cotton bud works great for those awkward little corners.
5. Fresh Strings = Fresh Sound
Cleaning is a great time to change your strings, especially if they're starting to sound flat or feel mucky. Wipe them down after every session to extend their life, but don’t be afraid to swap in a new set when the time comes – your ears (and fingers) will thank you.
Need a Hand? We’ve Got You
If you’re not sure what products to use, or just don’t fancy the faff, we can help. At Austin Guitars, we offer guitar cleaning, full setups, and servicing to get your instrument playing and looking its best. Whether it’s your first clean or your fiftieth gig, we’re here to keep things sounding sweet.
Pop down to the barn or get in touch to book your guitar in!
