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How do I care for and clean my acoustic guitar?
An acoustic guitar is more than just an instrument – it’s a companion that grows and matures with you. To make sure your guitar not only sounds great but also lasts a long time, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. This guide gives you practical tips and proven methods to keep your acoustic guitar in top condition. Whether you’re an experienced guitarist or a beginner, with the right care your guitar will serve you well for many years.
Materials & Tools:
- Capo, to clamp the strings
- String winder
- Microfibre cloth or soft cotton cloth
- Guitar cleaner or specialised guitar polish
Know-how
With us you don't just get what you need – we'll also show you how it works! To the guides.
Preparation
Before you clean your acoustic guitar, prepare everything you need and choose a clean, well-lit workspace. For a thorough clean it’s helpful to remove the strings or combine this with a string change.
Clamp the strings
If you want to keep using the strings, you can remove them from the bridge and clamp them with a capo. This keeps them out of the way during cleaning so you can work without problems.
Loosen the strings
Start by reducing the string tension at the headstock. A string winder makes this particularly easy and quick.
Remove strings from the bridge
Next, remove the strings from the bridge. For a Western guitar you can use a handy capo with a bridge-pin puller.
The Fretboard
Cleaning the fretboard is important to remove dirt and oils that can affect playability and dry out the wood. This keeps the fretboard supple and ensures the guitar always sounds its best.
Clean the frets
The frets on your guitar can be cleaned easily with a pencil eraser. Gently rub the eraser along the frets to remove deposits and oxidation. This keeps the frets smooth, which improves playability and reduces string wear.
Oil the fretboard
Apply fretboard oil to the entire fretboard. This conditions the wood and prevents it from drying out.
Work the oil in
Rub the oil evenly into the fretboard. Let the oil sit for a few minutes and then wipe off any excess with a dry cloth.
The Body
Cleaning the guitar body preserves the sound and appearance. Dirt and sweat can damage the finish and the wood, so regular cleaning helps your guitar sound great and look good.
Cleaning with polish
Put some polish on a cloth. If the care product is applied directly to the guitar it can seep into sensitive areas like seams or electronics and cause damage. Applying it to a cloth allows for a controlled and even application.
Wipe the body
Wipe the entire body with a soft, lint-free cloth and guitar cleaner. This removes dust and fingerprints that build up over time and also protects the wood.
Clean the bridge
Use a soft, slightly damp cloth or a paper towel to gently wipe the bridge. Make sure to clean the small gaps and corners thoroughly, as dust often collects there.
Further steps
These additional steps ensure a properly set-up and maintained guitar and guarantee you more playing comfort and a better playing feel.
Attach the strings
After you’ve cleaned your guitar, it’s important to secure the strings correctly at the bridge. On a Western guitar thread the strings through the designated holes and secure them with the bridge pins. On a classical guitar tie the strings securely to the bridge. Make sure the strings sit firmly and don’t slip.
Adjust the neck
Optionally you can adjust your guitar’s truss rod with an Allen key to control the neck relief. If in doubt, consult a professional to avoid damaging the guitar.
Tighten the tuners
Use a small wrench to gently tighten the tuners. Be careful not to over-tighten to avoid damage. Regularly checking and tightening the tuners helps keep your guitar in tune and optimally playable.
Battery change
Changing the battery in an acoustic guitar with a built-in pickup/preamp is simple and only requires a few steps.
Remove the battery
In an acoustic guitar with a pickup the battery is usually located in a special battery compartment integrated near the output jack, in the preamp, or inside the guitar body.
Replace the battery
Carefully pull the old battery out of the compartment. Note the orientation of the battery (positive and negative) so you can insert the new one correctly. Insert the new battery in the same orientation as the old one. Make sure it sits firmly and the contacts are properly connected.
Store the battery
Store the battery safely in the designated compartment or battery pouch and check that the pickup is working correctly by plugging the guitar in.
Care of the acoustic guitar
Clean and oil the fretboard
In our how-to video Björn shows you what to pay attention to when cleaning and caring for the fretboard of your acoustic guitar.
That runs smoothly!
If you love your guitar, you should definitely take care of your little treasure. To get you started right away, we’ve compiled the most important cleaning and care products for you.
Want more know-how?
Then you’ll find our other guides for acoustic guitars, electric guitars and electric basses here.