Playing the piano is a joyous experience, but the keys can accumulate dust, dirt, and even discoloration over time. How to clean piano keys is a question people ask as they want to avoid any potential damage to their beloved instruments!

In this article, I will guide you through the process of cleaning both ivory and plastic keys, as well as offer tips for cleaning the exterior of your acoustic piano. Let’s dive in and discover the best practices for keeping your piano keys in pristine condition.

How to Clean Piano Keys: Ivory & Plastic

If you are wondering what to clean piano keys with, you need to determine what kind of keys your piano has. If it is an electric instrument or keyboard, it likely has plastic keys.

Acoustic pianos tend to have ivory keys, and they require special care to avoid damage. You may need the following cleaning items to clean your piano depending on the key surface material:

Piano keys should be dusted with an electrostatic duster weekly. A more thorough monthly cleaning should be done if the keys are really dirty. The frequency of cleaning depends on how often the piano is used by the pianist/pianists. 

Plastic keys are commonly found in modern pianos, and they require a gentle touch to avoid any damage. Here’s how you can effectively clean plastic piano keys:

Fill a bowl with warm water and add a drop or two of mild dish soap. Alternatively, you can rub a soft, damp cloth on a bar of mild soap.

Dip a soft white cloth into the cleaning solution, ensuring that it is only damp, not wet. Excess moisture can seep between the keys and harm the piano.

Gently brush down the white keys from back to front using a damp cloth. Avoid wiping side to side, as it can transfer moisture and dirt between the keys. You should use a separate cloth for the black keys.

Wipe off any soap residue with a dry cloth, making sure to wipe from back to front. This prevents any substances from getting trapped between the keys. Dry the keys with a separate cloth from the one you used to clean with. 

For stubborn fingerprints, create a solution of 1 part vinegar and 4 parts water. Dampen a soft, white cloth with this solution and wipe the keys individually. Ensure each key is dry before moving on to the next one.

To Prevent dirt and dust buildup, cover the keys when not in use to prevent dust accumulation. Lowering the cover after playing will minimize the frequency of cleaning required.

Establish a regular cleaning routine for your piano keys to prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime.

If you’re uncertain about cleaning the keys yourself, consult a professional piano technician or cleaner.

Disinfecting Piano Keys

To disinfect piano keys, dampen a clean microfiber cloth with hydrogen peroxide. It should not be dripping, just damp. Wipe each key and allow the keyboard to air dry before using.

Tips to Keep Piano Keys Clean Longer

• Wash your hands before playing.
• Keep the keyboard covered when not in use.

If your piano has ivory keys, they require special care to avoid damage. Also, you should avoid using soaps or chemicals. Ivory can absorb moisture and chemicals, which can discolor and damage it. Here are the steps to safely clean ivory piano keys:

Before proceeding, consider the age and value of your piano. If it’s an antique, consult an expert to preserve its value.

Ivory keys are sensitive to moisture and chemicals, which can cause discoloration and damage. Do not use soaps or harsh cleaning agents.

Wear white cotton gloves to prevent oil or dirt from your hands from transferring onto the ivory keys.

Use a soft-bristled paintbrush or electrostatic duster to gently remove dust from the keys. Work from back to front to avoid debris getting between the keys.

5. Create a Cardboard Wedge

Cut two pieces of thin cardboard to wedge between the keys as you clean. This will help to prevent moisture from becoming trapped between the keys as you clean.

6. Mix a Cleaning Solution

Squeeze a quarter-sized dollop of basic toothpaste into a small bowl. The toothpaste should not be gel-based or contain whitening ingredients. Add a three-fourths cup of warm water and stir until the toothpaste has dissolved in the water.

Slip the cardboard pieces on either side of the ivory key you are cleaning. Dip the toothbrush into the solution and tap it on the bowl until it’s damp.

Start at the top of the white keys and gently scrub in a downward motion. Do not overwet them, they do not need to be soaked, just gently wiped or scrubbed.

8. Rinse and Dry

There are several methods to whiten ivory keys. You can use a white vinyl eraser or #0000 (very fine) steel wool pad. You can also try exposing the keys to sunlight, which may not whiten them that much but will prevent further yellowing.

You can also apply baking soda, or use plain white toothpaste with a damp cloth.

Another popular whitening method you can use is using white vinegar mixed with water. Mix four spoonfuls of tap water with a spoonful of white vinegar. Dip a cloth into the water and wipe down each key to get rid of the yellow staining.

To disinfect ivory keys, use over-the-counter hydrogen peroxide on a damp cotton pad. Wipe each key individually from back to front and follow up with a dry cloth. Avoid bleach-based or citrus-containing disinfectants.

Mild humidity levels in the room where your piano is located can prevent any adverse effects and yellowing of your piano keys.

Always consult the piano manufacturer or refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific care and maintenance instructions.

The exterior of your acoustic piano also requires attention to keep it clean and well-maintained. Follow these guidelines:

Lightly dampen a fine knit cloth with plain water to remove dust and finger marks from the piano’s surface. For high-polish finishes, a microfiber polishing cloth is recommended.

Before applying any cleaning products, test them on a small, unexposed area of the finish (such as underneath) to ensure they won’t damage the piano’s surface.

Waxing and polishing can lead to unwanted build-up, which may require professional removal. Stick to gentle cleaning methods using a damp cloth.

Wipe the piano’s keyboard frequently with a clean, soft cloth lightly dampened with plain water. Avoid allowing dampness to seep between the keys or into the keybed to prevent swelling.

Never use solvents on the black or white keys, as they can damage the fine finish.

Refrain from placing pots, vases, pictures, drinks, or any objects on top of the piano, as they can damage the finish and impact the piano’s sound.

If you have specific concerns or questions about cleaning and maintaining your piano keys, consult the piano’s manufacturer or a professional piano technician.

By following these steps, you can ensure that both the keys and exterior of your acoustic piano remain clean and in optimal condition. Remember, each piano is unique, and it’s essential to consider its specific requirements when cleaning and maintaining the keys.

With proper care and attention, your piano keys will remain beautiful and functional for years to come. Happy playing and cleaning!