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How to Clean Piano Keys Safely and Effectively

by Laura /
08/01/2025

As a pianist, there’s nothing worse than sitting down to play and being met by dust and grime at your fingertips. This might be your chance to unwind, get an hour of practice in, or rehearse with your band, but it’s ruined by an unkept instrument.

You might think that the most important thing you can do with a piano is play it – and you’re right, but you also need to maintain it. No matter how often you use the instrument, looking after it properly will ensure it lasts longer – giving you smooth action as you press the keys, rich dynamics, and an all-around more enjoyable experience.

In particular, the keys need careful maintenance. These can be beautifully crafted mechanisms with faux ivory and ebony tops, so they need to be treated with care and the right cleaning solutions. For a foolproof method, read on. We’ll show you how to clean piano keys in four easy steps. 

Secondhand keys

Piano cleaning equipment 

To clean piano keys safely you will need a soft microfibre cloth and a dedicated piano key cleaner. We recommend a cleaner specifically designed for pianos, as these are gentle on the surface and will avoid damage that may occur from harsh chemicals. 

Abrasive cleaners can lead to cracking, fading, or discolouration, so you should avoid anything containing ammonia or bleach. For an effective clean, ensure your cloth is lint-free (meaning it won’t leave fibres behind).

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to clean your piano you can also use a diluted solution of mild dish soap. This method is great for light cleaning, although it is advised that you use it sparingly to prevent moisture from seeping into the keys. 

 

Instrument Polishing Cloth by Gear4music

Instrument Polishing Cloth

  • Lint-free 
  • Made from cotton  
  • Great for use with polish 

Piano Polish and Cloth by Gear4music

Piano Polish and Cloth by Gear4music, 200ml

  • Safe for all keys
  • Designed for piano
  • Convenient package

D’Addario PW-MPC Micro-Fibre Polish Cloth

D’Addario PW-MPC Micro-Fibre Polish Cloth

  • Traps particles  
  • Reusable
  • Durable 

How to clean piano keys  

1. Dust the keys

The first step before wiping the keys is to remove any dust. Do this by being gentle – yet you should still be thorough enough and get in between the keys. We recommend using a clean, dry paintbrush or a dedicated duster to sweep across the keys. This step prevents dust particles from scratching the surface when you clean. 


2. Use a cloth dampened with cleaning fluid

Dampen a microfibre cloth with a small amount of piano cleaning fluid – avoid soaking it, as excess moisture can seep between the keys. Wipe each key gently, moving from back to front in a straight motion. This prevents dirt from spreading into crevices.


3. Use another cloth dampened with lukewarm water

If you’ve used cleaning fluid, dampen another microfibre cloth with lukewarm water and wipe away any residue left on the keys, again, in a back to front motion. If you’ve used polish, however, move on to the next step. 


4. Dry the keys

Use a third microfibre cloth to dry the keys, wiping them up and down like you did in the previous steps. This prevents moisture from settling or seeping between the keys. Ensure all keys are completely dry to protect their surface and avoid damage. 

Featured image - Keyboard vs. Piano

Our tips for maintaining your piano 

1. Keep the cover closed

G4M Sonori High Top Digital Piano, Gloss BlackWhen you’re not using your piano, close the piano key cover! Although this doesn’t necessarily show off your beautiful instrument in all its glory, it does minimise dust buildup on the keys and protects them from grime, dirt, and accidental spills. 


2. Wash hands before playing

It’s always good practice to wash your hands before playing. This will prevent dirt and oils from transferring to the keys. However, notice we say “wash” your hands and not use sanitiser.

Hand sanitiser can damage the keys with its harsh chemicals, but if you do use it, make sure your hands are completely dry before touching the piano. 


3. Don’t use harsh cleaners

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – avoid any harsh cleaning solutions like bleach or ammonia-based products, as these can easily damage the keys and cause discolouration. Gentle options, such as diluted dishwashing soap (a great budget-friendly option) or a dedicated piano cleaning fluid are ideal.


4. Ensure the cloth is damp, not wet

If your cloth is dripping wet, you’ll risk letting the water or cleaning solution run between the keys, potentially damaging internal components. Make sure the cloth is just damp, and wipe in a back-to-front motion, rather than side-to-side; this will reduce any chance of the liquid seeping into the piano.


5. Always use microfibre cloths

There’s nothing more annoying than cleaning a surface, only to find small fibres preventing you from that perfect shine, never mind the complications lint could create if trapped under your keys. For this reason, we recommend using a microfibre cloth. These cloths are soft, lint-free, and gentle, ensuring a streak-free finish without damage.

FAQs 

How do I get my piano keys white again?

To get your piano keys white again, gently clean them with a damp microfibre cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid harsh chemicals to prevent damage. Wipe in a single direction, and dry immediately with a clean cloth to restore their brightness effectively. 


Can you clean the piano keys with alcohol wipes?

Cleaning piano keys with alcohol wipes is safe if used sparingly and on plastic keys. Avoid using them on ivory keys as alcohol can cause discoloration. Always wipe gently and follow with a soft cloth to ensure no residue is left behind. 


Can you use WD-40 on piano keys?

We don’t recommend using WD-40 on piano keys as it can leave an oily residue and damage the material. Stick to cleaning methods designed specifically for delicate surfaces to maintain the integrity and appearance of your piano keys.

Final thoughts 

It’s a fairly simple process, but knowing how to clean piano keys can massively improve your piano-playing experience and the instrument’s longevity. Pianos work best when they’re free of dirt and dust – and what pianist doesn’t want a well-looked-after piano to play?

For more guides, check out these links:

How to Move a Piano Safely

The Ultimate Guide to Piano Keys

Semi-Weighted vs. Weighted Keys – Which Key Action is Right for You

 

Digital Marketing Apprentice

Laura is a Content Writer with 15 years of drumming experience. Laura's musical tastes range from Led Zeppelin to Phoebe Bridgers.

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