Pianos, as we know, are some of the most beautiful additions to homes, not forgetting the big role they play in the entertainment of guests in our homes. Therefore, it goes without saying why they require regular maintenance. Caring for your piano is important for maintaining it at an excellent condition while ensuring that it performs optimally. One of the most effective ways of caring for it is by ensuring that you clean it regularly.
In cleaning your piano, you need to be very cautious. You must carefully consider the type of finish used for your piano and the material used for the keys before you can begin the cleaning. Otherwise, you might end up doing something or using a product that maybe damaging on your piano.
Dusting
The first step to cleaning your piano is dusting. This step helps you get rid of excessive dust before you can begin the actual cleaning. When dusting, it is advisable that you use a feather duster. This is to avoid rubbing dust on the piano’s surface as this may cause scratches, same to when a dry cloth is used.
Cleaning the Finish
Cleaning the piano’s finish is important in removing any dust that might not have been cleared in the dusting process. Also, it helps in the removal of fingerprints. When cleaning the finish, use a damp piece of cloth. Ensure that the cloth is made of soft fabric, such as cotton. Also, take note of the word damp, not wet. Use straight instead of circular motions when cleaning the finish. This should prevent swirl marks left after cleaning.
In cleaning the finish, it is also important to ensure that water used in dampening your cleaning cloth is filtered. By all means, avoid using mineral water as some of the minerals tend to alter the appearance. When cleaning the finish, do avoid interior parts that might be exposed. If you are not an expert piano technician, you might end up damaging it.
Cleaning the Keys
First, you have to understand the material used for your keys. Some keys are made of plastic while in other cases they might be made of a more expensive material, ivory. When cleaning plastic keyboards, use a mild solution. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents on keyboards. Dampen your cloth using the mild solution. Ensure that the cloth is properly wrung such that it is only damp. This is to prevent getting any water in the keys as this may compromise their performance. When cleaning, use up- and- down motions rather than side- to – side motions. This should prevent dirt, oils and moisture from getting deep into the sides.
When cleaning ivory keys, the process might be a little bit different. The first thing you need to note about this material is that it is highly porous. Hence, you should avoid using tap water in cleaning it. With time, you might notice that your ivory keys have yellowed. To get rid of this yellowing, use a soft cloth, damped with a solution of warm water and vinegar. Use the same process as in cleaning plastic keys.
Conclusion
Giving your piano a regular clean will ensure that dust and oils do not accumulate and compromise its functionality. You can also take an extra measure to ensure that you clean your hands thoroughly, to rid of oils and sweat, every time you want to use your piano. Also, ensure that you cover your piano when not in use. This plus regular maintenance and cleaning services from a professional will ensure that your piano serves you for a very long while.