Our instruments are priceless as the music that is produced from it. Be it any instrument, taking care of them is essential for maintaining their tone, playability, and longevity. When it comes to guitar, one crucial aspect of maintenance is cleaning the fretboard. Over time, dirt, sweat, and oils accumulate on the fretboard, affecting both its appearance and performance. Exotic Wood Zone will walk you through the steps to clean your fretboard effectively, ensuring it stays in top condition for years to come.
Prepare Your Work Area
Find a clean, well-lit area to work on your guitar. Lay down a soft cloth to protect the guitar's finish from any accidental scratches or spills.
Loosen the Strings
Using a guitar string winder, loosen the tension on the strings to make it easier to access the fretboard. You don't need to remove the strings entirely; just enough to create some slack.
Remove Surface Debris
Take your small brush (a toothbrush works well) and gently brush away any loose dirt or debris from the fretboard. Pay special attention to the spaces between the frets where dirt tends to accumulate.
Apply Cleaner
If your fretboard is particularly dirty or dry, you may need to use a cleaner. Be sure to choose a product that is safe for your fretboard material (e.g., lemon oil for rosewood or ebony, guitar polish for finished maple). Apply a small amount of cleaner to a soft cloth, and gently rub it into the fretboard, following the wood grain.
Wipe Away Excess
Using a clean section of the cloth, wipe away any excess cleaner from the fretboard. Take care not to leave any residue behind, as this can affect your guitar's tone and playability.
Condition the Fretboard
If your fretboard is made of unfinished wood (e.g., rosewood or ebony), it may benefit from conditioning to keep it hydrated and protected. Apply a small amount of lemon oil to a soft cloth and rub it into the fretboard, again following the wood grain. Allow the oil to soak in for a few minutes, then wipe away any excess.
Re-Tune Your Guitar
Once you've finished cleaning the fretboard, re-tune your guitar to your desired pitch. You may need to stretch the strings slightly to settle them back into place.
Finally you have successfully cleaned and restored your guitar’s fretboard to its former glory. By following these steps, you can regularly keep your fretboard at its best tone and looks. Happy playing!
