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How do I care for and clean my electric guitar or bass?
Electric guitars and basses are fantastic instruments that keep inspiring us with their unique sound. To continue enjoying their amazing tones in the future, proper care and cleaning are essential. Only this way can you ensure the longevity and tonal quality of these wonderful instruments. Here is a comprehensive guide that shows you how to care for your instrument properly and get every tone out of it!
Materials & tools:
- Microfibre cloth or soft cotton cloth
- Guitar cleaner or a dedicated guitar polish
Preparation:
- Lay the guitar or your bass on a stable, soft surface to avoid scratches.
- Make sure you work in a well-lit area.
- Have your tools within easy reach.
- Remove or loosen the strings of your instrument
The body
Regular cleaning of the body of your stringed instrument preserves the shine and protects the finish from wear. With the right care your guitar will always stay in top condition. Here you'll learn how to clean the body quickly and effectively.
Care & cleaning products
Use only cleaners that are suitable for guitars and basses to avoid damaging the finish and the wood. If your instrument has a nitrocellulose lacquer, be especially careful with cleaners, as this finish is more sensitive and requires special care.
Cleaning with the cloth
Guitar cleaner should be applied to a cloth and not sprayed directly onto the instrument to prevent liquid from seeping into the electronics or fine cracks and causing damage.
Wiping the body
Wipe the entire body gently in straight strokes from the centre outwards. You should not wipe your electric guitar or bass in circular motions, as this can damage the finish.
The fretboard
Cleaning the fretboard is important to remove dirt and to care for the wood. This keeps the playing feel pleasant and preserves tonal quality. Here you'll learn how to properly care for the fretboard.
Oiling the fretboard
Apply fretboard oil to the entire fretboard. This conditions the wood and prevents it from drying out. Pay attention to the type of fretboard, as not every wood should be oiled! Fretboards made of rosewood, ebony and other untreated, open-pored woods may and should be oiled regularly. Fretboards made of finished maple or other sealed woods should not be oiled.
Work in oil
Rub the oil evenly into the fretboard. Let the oil sit for a few minutes and then wipe off any excess oil with a dry cloth.
Cleaning the fretboard
Wipe the entire fretboard and neck completely with the microfibre cloth to remove dirt and fingerprints.
Further cleaning tips:
- Clean the strings regularly: Wipe the strings after playing to remove sweat and dirt and to extend their lifespan.
- Clean potentiometers: Use contact cleaner to clean crackling potentiometers. Spray sparingly and move the controls to remove dirt.
- Polish bridge and hardware: Clean and polish the metal parts carefully to prevent rust and keep the hardware in good condition.
- Check the electronics: Watch for loose cables or screws in the electronics and tighten them carefully if needed.
Optimal protection and care for your instrument!
If you love your electric guitar or bass, then take proper care of your little treasure. To get you started right away, we've put together the most important cleaning and care products for you.
Want more know-how?
Here you'll find our guides for electric bass and electric guitar as well as acoustic guitars