Want to make sure you know how to clean a piano the right way? Check out these quick tips from Olympia, WA teacher Tali H…
How Do You Clean a Piano?
When it comes to cleaning a piano, there are a few simple things to know about what to do and not do. While these tips are relatively straightforward, following each one is important!
How to Clean a Piano: The Do’s
- Wash your hands before playing. Most grime on piano keys comes from the player’s hands. So be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before you play the piano.
- Pull the piano lid down over the keys when you’re finished. This keeps the keys from being exposed to the occasional mishap such as spilled drinks, food, etc.
- Wipe clean often. Even with preventative measures, your piano will inevitably get dirty. Clean regularly with a piano cleaner like this one. You can also wipe it off using a feather duster, slightly damp flannel cloth, or cheesecloth.
- Use plain, filtered water. Plain old filtered water is best to avoid damaging your piano.
- Determine what the keys are made of. To know how to clean piano keys properly, you need to know what they’re made of (usually plastic, ebony, or irony). Use a little milk on a cloth to clean ivory keys, a gentle toothpaste on ebony keys, or vinegar with warm water can clean off plastic keys.
You may also be interested in: No More Sticky Piano Keys! | How to Clean Piano Keys
How to Clean a Piano: The Don’ts
- Don’t use a rough or dry cloth. As mentioned, use a slightly damp cloth. This will clean the piano without scratching it.
- Don’t clean the inside yourself. You only need to clean the inside of a piano every 5-10 years. When it’s time to do this, make sure it’s done right by contacting a professional (& reputable) piano cleaner in your area.
- Don’t wipe all keys at once. Avoid getting between the keys wet by wiping each key at a time, up and down. And, a slightly damp cloth will also ensure that water doesn’t seep into the cracks. Use a dry cloth to pat down the wet keys if needed.
Remember, the best way to keep a clean piano is to take preventative action. So wash your hands before playing and keep the keys hidden under its cover. Use these strategies for how to clean a piano to ensure years of quality music-making!
Want to work on other piano skills? Consider working with a private piano teacher at TakeLessons!
Tali H. tutors and teaches piano in Olympia, WA, as well as through online lessons. Since 2010, she has worked with numerous students in elementary, middle, high school, and college in both group settings and one-on-one. Learn more about Tali here!
Photo by samantha celera
Suzy S.