Piano keys can get stained after being played by numerous dirty, oily or sweaty fingers. Even if you don't see stained keys, your piano keys will still look lackluster after awhile. The best way to fight dirty piano keys is to make sure that everyone who plays your piano washes his hands first. However, it's useful to know how to clean piano keys, whether your piano keys are ivory keys or plastic keys. If your piano keys aren't overly stained, you can do the job yourself rather than hire a professional cleaner.
Tips For Ivory Keys
You can generally keep your piano keys fairly clean by gently buffing them with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and sprays that may damage the keys. If the ivory keys still seem dirty, use mild white toothpaste along with a damp cloth, and rub the keys gently with the cloth. Use a second soft, slightly damp cloth to wipe the paste away.
When cleaning your piano's ivory keys, you should never put them in water, scrub them or use any chemicals on them. If absolutely necessary, use gentle soap to clean ivory keys. Also, even though you might use furniture polish on the wood of the piano, avoid letting furniture polish come into contact with ivory piano keys, and avoid using air freshener around your keyboard.
Tips For Plastic Keys
If you have plastic keys on your piano, you should still avoid using chemicals. Do not leave a plastic keyboard exposed for a long time because exposure to the elements in your house may cause the keys to lose their luster. As with ivory keys, avoid exposing plastic piano keys to furniture polish.
To clean plastic keys, dust them regularly. If they appear particularly dirty or stained, use vinegar mixed in water and a soft cloth to wipe them. Finally, buff them with a second clean, soft cloth.
Whether you have ivory or plastic keys, regular maintenance isn't too difficult. If you keep a soft cloth nearby and try to wipe down the keys after each use, you can save yourself the trouble of a more intense cleaning.
 | Want to learn how to play the piano? You might want to start with a keyboard first so you can figure out the keys before buying a piano and investing in piano lessons. |
 | Different types of pianos range from the stylish grand pianos to the space-saving vertical pianos to electrical pianos, which are ideal for beginners. |
Famous piano performers aren't limited to the Classical composers and performers of the 18th century. In the 19th and 20th centuries, innovators such as Franz Liszt and Glenn Gould stunned audiences and listeners with their skills. |
The history of the piano began when Bartolomeo Cristofori developed and modified the pianoforte, and other inventors started thinking of ways to improve and shape the sound the piano created. |
Who invented the piano? Bartolomeo Cristofori typically gets the credit for developing the piano for Italian royalty during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. |
