Cleaning your piano properly is crucial to maintaining its appearance and performance. Incorrect cleaning methods can cause damage, leading to costly repairs. Here’s a quick guide to help you clean your piano safely:
-
Avoid Common Mistakes:
- Do not use chemical cleaners, abrasive tools, or excessive moisture.
- Wipe keys vertically (not side-to-side) to prevent moisture from seeping between them.
- Use separate cloths for black and white keys to avoid dirt transfer.
-
Use the Right Materials:
- Stick to piano-specific cleaners like Cory Key Cleaner or mild solutions (e.g., water with a soft cloth).
- Avoid household cleaners like bleach, citrus, or ammonia-based products.
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Protect Delicate Parts:
- Keep the key cover closed when not in use.
- Maintain a stable environment: 65–75°F temperature and 45–55% humidity.
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When to Call an Expert:
- Leave internal cleaning to professionals to avoid damaging intricate mechanisms.
Quick Tip: Wash your hands before playing and dust your piano regularly with a microfiber cloth to minimize cleaning needs.
Piano Parts That Need Protection
Main Parts to Watch
Some parts of a piano need extra care during cleaning to avoid damage. Here are the most delicate ones:
Piano Keys: Keys are especially sensitive. For example, ivory keys can crack or discolor if harsh cleaners are used. Steinway & Sons advises:
"Never use solvents of any kind to clean either the black or the white keys of your Steinway piano – they can damage the fine finish of the keys" [1].
Keybed and Action: The mechanisms beneath and between the keys are prone to swelling or jamming if exposed to moisture. As Steinway & Sons warns:
"Never allow dampness to seep between the keys or down into the keybed – this can cause swelling and hamper the free play of the keys" [1].
Piano Finish: The outer finish – whether satin, high-gloss, or polyester – requires specific cleaning methods. Yamaha Corporation cautions:
"Avoid using chemical-impregnated wipes or cleaning agents which are not designed for piano because their chemical compositions may not suit for piano’s finish" [3].
Knowing which parts need extra attention can help you avoid the most common cleaning mistakes.
Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s a breakdown of typical cleaning errors and how to prevent them:
| Mistake | Potential Damage | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| Using chemical solvents | Key discoloration or damage | Stick to plain water on a barely damp cloth |
| Excess moisture | Wood swelling or key sticking | Apply solutions to the cloth, not directly to the piano |
| Harsh cleaning tools | Scratches on the surface | Use microfiber or fine-knit cloths only |
| Cleaning keys side-to-side | Moisture seeping between keys | Clean front-to-back instead |
| Reusing the same cloth | Dirt transfer between keys | Use separate cloths for black and white keys |
The Ogden Piano Gallery highlights the importance of proper care:
"By taking the steps to keep your piano’s keys clean, you will be better able to keep the entire piano in better condition" [4].
To reduce how often you need to clean your piano, wash your hands before playing and keep the key cover closed when not in use [2][4].
Required Cleaning Materials
Safe Cleaning Products
Protecting your piano’s delicate surfaces starts with choosing the right cleaning products. Using cleaners specifically designed for pianos helps you avoid harmful substances like wax, silicone, and harsh solvents. For basic cleaning, plain water applied with a soft cloth is one of the safest choices.
For deeper cleaning, piano-specific products are highly recommended:
| Surface Type | Recommended Cleaner | Usage Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Piano Keys (Ivory/Plastic) | Cory Key Cleaner | Apply to a cloth, never directly to the keys |
| High-Gloss Finish | Cory Super High-Gloss Polish | Avoid products with wax or ammonia |
| Satin/Open-Pore Finish | Cory All-Brite Wood Conditioner | Apply following the wood grain direction |
| Pre-cleaning All Surfaces | Cory Coconut Wood Cleaner | Removes built-up grime and residue |
Ron Moore of Moore Piano highlights the importance of using specialized products:
"Investing in cleaners and polishes designed specifically for pianos will keep your piano clean and beautiful, much longer than household cleaners."
For disinfecting keys, a hydrogen peroxide solution is a safe option. Steer clear of products containing bleach or citrus, as they can cause permanent damage to both ivory and plastic keys. Along with the right products, having the proper tools is just as important.
Right and Wrong Tools
Once you’ve chosen the right cleaning products, it’s essential to pair them with the correct tools to avoid unintentional damage. Here’s what you should – and shouldn’t – use:
Recommended tools:
- Microfiber polishing cloths for high-gloss finishes
- Soft cloths for general cleaning
- Piano soundboard cleaner/duster
- Separate clean cloths for black and white keys
Avoid using:
- Paper towels or tissues
- Abrasive pads or scrubbers
- Household dusters with rough surfaces
- Dirty or reused cloths
For hard-to-reach areas, professional tools like the Howard Piano Industries soundboard cleaner are a great option. This tool allows you to attach a soft rag and flex it to clean under strings without causing any harm. Using the right tools and materials not only keeps your piano looking its best but also protects its delicate components.
How to Clean Piano Keys
Ivory Key Cleaning Steps
Ivory keys are recognized by their off-white color and a thin horizontal seam. Here’s how to clean them:
- Use a soft brush to dust the keys, brushing downward. Then, dampen a white cloth lightly with a mild soap solution and wipe each key vertically.
- For yellowed or stained keys, try these approaches:
| Method | How to Apply | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Toothpaste Treatment | Use mild toothpaste on a cloth to buff gently | Wipe with a damp cloth, then dry immediately. |
| White Vinyl Eraser | Gently rub keys with a white vinyl eraser | Apply light pressure to avoid scratches. |
| Natural Whitening | Place the piano in indirect sunlight | Monitor exposure to avoid damage. |
Plastic Key Cleaning Steps
For ABS polymer keys, follow these tailored steps:
- Mix warm water with dish soap, or use a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution for disinfecting.
- Lightly dampen a cloth – do not soak it.
- Clean the keys one octave at a time, wiping vertically from top to bottom.
- Dry immediately with a clean cloth.
- Use separate cloths for white and black keys.
For extra disinfection during cold and flu season, M. Steinert & Sons suggests applying a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution with a cotton ball. Let it sit for one minute, then dry thoroughly.
Key Protection Methods
Taking care of your keys doesn’t stop at cleaning. Protect them with these practices:
-
Moisture Control
Always apply cleaning solutions to a cloth, not directly on the keys. Dry them immediately after cleaning. -
Prevention Practices
Keep the key cover closed when not in use, and wash your hands before playing to reduce dirt buildup. - Safe Products
| Use These Products | Avoid These Products |
|---|---|
| 3% hydrogen peroxide | Bleach |
| Mild dish soap | Alcohol-based cleaners |
| Piano-specific cleaners | Citrus-based products |
| White vinegar solution (1:4) | Harsh solvents |
"In order to protect the keys and furniture finish from damage, it is important to choose an appropriate cleaning solution for the keys. Do not use bleach or harsh solvent." – Jonathan Kotulski, RPT, Piano Technician, M. Steinert & Sons [7]
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How to Sanitize and Clean a Piano
Cleaning the Piano’s Surface
Taking care of your piano’s surface is just as important as cleaning the keys. Proper maintenance helps avoid long-term damage and keeps your instrument looking its best.
Types of Piano Finishes
Modern pianos typically have either lacquer or polyester finishes. Lacquer finishes can be satin (a muted sheen), semi-gloss, or high gloss. Polyester finishes are usually satin or high gloss as well [8]. Here’s how to identify your piano’s finish:
| Finish Type | Visual Characteristics | Era |
|---|---|---|
| High Gloss | Reflective, mirror-like surface | Modern (1950s–present) |
| Satin | Matte look with grain-aligned texture | Modern (all eras) |
| Shellac | Soft, delicate appearance | Pre-1860 |
| Varnish | Darkens with age, often richer in tone | 1860s–1920s |
Once you’ve identified the finish, use the right cleaning method to avoid damage.
Cleaning Methods for Each Finish
Each finish type requires a specific approach to ensure proper care:
High-Gloss Finishes:
- Use a water-based polish designed for pianos.
- Apply the polish to a microfiber cloth – never directly on the piano.
- Buff gently in circular motions with a soft, dry cloth [9].
Satin Finishes:
- Always clean following the grain.
- Avoid circular motions, as they can create unwanted shiny spots.
- Opt for products like Cory Satin Sheen Cleaner or similar piano-safe options [11].
Tips for Surface Protection
After cleaning, follow these tips to protect your piano’s finish:
| Do | Don’t |
|---|---|
| Use microfiber cloths exclusively | Place objects on the piano surface |
| Test cleaners on hidden areas first | Apply cleaners directly to the piano |
| Dust regularly with a microfiber duster | Use household cleaners like Windex |
| Clean in the direction of the grain | Apply wax or non-piano polishes |
| Use piano-specific cleaning products | Use abrasive cleaning materials |
For heavily soiled surfaces, start with a pre-polish cleaner before applying a finish-specific product. According to Dave Swartz, Registered Piano Technician and owner of Cory Products:
"This special, emulsified blend of polymers will not build up, smear, or leave other undesired results" [10].
While polyester finishes are more resistant to scratches than lacquer, they still require careful handling. Regular dusting is key for both types, as it minimizes the need for deep cleaning that could harm the finish [8].
When to Call a Piano Expert
Taking care of a piano’s internal components is not a DIY task. To avoid expensive repairs, it’s best to rely on a professional.
Risks of DIY Internal Cleaning
A piano has over 10,000 intricate parts, making it risky to clean its internal mechanisms on your own. Here’s a breakdown of potential risks:
| Component | DIY Risk | Potential Damage |
|---|---|---|
| Action Mechanism | High | Misalignment, broken parts |
| Strings | Very High | Rust, tension loss |
| Hammers | High | Felt damage, improper spacing |
| Dampers | High | Misalignment, felt damage |
At Cooper Piano, technicians often deal with damage caused by DIY attempts, such as warped keys from too much moisture or broken action mechanisms due to improper handling [12].
How to Safely Remove Dust
While internal cleaning should be left to experts, you can manage surface dust safely if you follow these tips:
What to Do:
- Use a soft feather duster on accessible surfaces.
- Keep the lid closed when the piano isn’t being played.
- Maintain humidity levels between 40–45%.
- Schedule regular professional cleanings.
What to Avoid:
- Using compressed air.
- Spraying cleaners inside the piano.
- Cleaning between the strings.
- Removing internal parts.
Professional Maintenance Schedule
To keep your piano in top shape, follow these guidelines for regular professional care:
| Usage Level | Tuning Frequency | Deep Cleaning | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Recreational (1 hr/day) | 2–4 times/year | Every 5 years | $100–$150 per tuning |
| Professional (3–6 hrs/day) | 4 times/year | Every 3 years | $100–$150 per tuning |
| Heavy Use (6+ hrs/day) | 12 times/year | Annually | $100–$150 per tuning |
Watch for these signs that your piano may need immediate attention:
- Keys that stick or don’t respond.
- Strange noises like buzzing or rattling.
- Musty smells, which could indicate mold.
- Uneven resistance when pressing the keys.
For pianos in areas with drastic seasonal changes, plan for professional service before summer and winter. If your piano is new, it will need tuning four times during its first year [13].
Proper Piano Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping your piano clean isn’t just about aesthetics – it can help it last for decades. Upright pianos can endure for 50–75 years, while grand pianos may reach up to 100 years, provided they’re properly maintained [14].
Key Cleaning Tips:
- Understand your keys: Determine whether your keys are made of ivory (pre-1989 models) or plastic to choose the right cleaning method [6].
- Control moisture: Use as little moisture as possible when cleaning and ensure the keys are completely dry afterward [5].
- Rely on professionals: Schedule tuning and servicing with a trained technician at least twice a year [15].
These steps are essential for keeping your piano in top condition.
Ryan Ellison, Yamaha’s Supervisor of Piano Services, emphasizes the importance of professional care:
"A well-trained and conscientious technician can actually help to lengthen the lifespan of a piano" [16].
This serves as a reminder that attempting to clean or repair the internal components yourself can lead to costly mistakes.
For everyday maintenance, simple habits make a big difference. Keep the lid closed when not in use, maintain consistent room humidity, wash your hands before playing, and stick to approved cleaning products.
At Cooper Piano, we believe that combining regular professional care with proper cleaning routines is the best way to protect your piano’s performance and value. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your instrument’s beauty and functionality for years to come.