How to Clean an Electric Guitar

I am no stranger to obsessive compulsive cleaning tasks. For me, the guitar is no different. Though I try to keep them clean when I change the strings I tend to get very meticulous.



I'll show you a few tricks to getting the most out of cleaning a guitar--and some of these are not just cosmetic.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lint-free cloth
• Furniture oil
• Small Paint brush
• Toothbrush

1. The first thing I do is lay the guitar down in my lap. I take your typical household furniture oil (Old English works well) and apply a small amount to an old toothbrush. I then slather in on the entire fretboard.

2. Once the oil has been evenly distributed across the fretboard gently scrub it with the toothbrush. You want to ensure that you scrub the frets as well. This procedure will remove any buildup of finger residue and muck.

3. After you've scrubbed down the fretboard take a lint-free cloth and wipe it dry. As you do this apply a little pressure to give the fretboard a good "once over."

4. Most guitars bodies have been treated with a polyurethane lacquer which will allow you to use practically any cleaner. I prefer Windex. Just spray a little on another cloth and wipe it clean.

5. I like to get in between all the cracks and crevices throughout the instrument. I mean, if I'm going to clean it I may as well do it right. Right?
   
   I use a light paintbrush to remove all the dust that finds its way into the hard-to-reach areas.

6. The next thing I like to do is take a lead pencil and draw it over the bridge saddles. Any No. 2 pencil will work. The lead helps to lubricate the bridge saddles and allows the strings to roll over them much more easily.

[hlthychoclitnut]

on 1/6/2009 Thanks for How to Clean an Electric Guitar.I'll pass it on to my son who has a bass, an acoustic and an electric.
the thing with the pencil is interesting.