How to Clean Les Paul Guitar Fret

If your prized Gibson Les Paul seems to be losing its shine, most likely the guitar's frets are in need of some intensive care. The combination of finger oils, sweat and humidity will quickly turn your frets into an oxidized mess. Here's how you clean your axe's frets and give it back that bling.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2 extra-fine steel wool (grade #0000) pads Roll of 1-inch painter's tape

1. Remove all the guitar strings.

2. Cut 2 strips of the painters tape, each approximately 4 inches long. Painter's tape is ideal because it is easily removed from the fretboard.

3. Place each strip of tape flush against each edge of the fret. The strips should be running the same direction as the fret, running width-wise on the neck. These strips will protect the fretboard.

4. Take a pad of the extra-fine steel wool and gently rub it on the fret for a few seconds. Always rub in the same direction that the fret runs.

5. Check the fret. The luster should be restored. If there is still oxidation, continue gently rubbing while checking frequently until the fret is cleaned.

6. Remove the strips of tape and place them around the next fret. Repeat Steps 1 thorough 6 until all frets have been cleaned.

Tips & Warnings

• Only use extra-fine grade# 0000 steel wool. Using a heavier grade may damage your frets and fretboard.