How to Condition a Rosewood Fretboard

A guitar fretboard is subjected to oils and dirt from your hands each time you play it. While a good wipe-down after practice will normally keep it looking clean, periodically conditioning the board will help keep it in good condition and protect it from future damage.

Things You'll Need

• Pure lemon oil
• Clean rags

Instructions

1. Wipe down the fretboard using a warm, moist towel or rag. If there is any grime or dirt on the board, now is the time to remove it.

2. Pour a moderate amount of lemon oil onto a clean rag and wipe the entire surface of the fretboard. Let the oil stand for a few moments.

3. Using another clean rag, wipe off the excess oil.

4. If the fretboard is very dirty or old, you may repeat Steps 2 and 3 to give it extra protection.

Tips & Warnings

• Conditioning a board will be much easier without the strings. If you like, schedule the cleaning around a regular string change.

• If you have trouble removing the dirt in Step 1, a very fine grade of steel wool can be used. Be very careful around any inlays, however, as the wool can scratch them.

• Lemon oil can be used on rosewood and ebony fingerboards, but maple boards should not be conditioned with any penetrating oil or solvents.

Resources

• Cleaning and conditioning supplies