Guitar strings are just as important as fret boards: You can't play a thing without em. So keeping the strings clean and smooth is extremely important. This guide will help guitar owners to keep their strings in optimum condition and increase the string's longevity.
Step 1
Lay the guitar on its back, resting the head stock on small box or similar, to stop the machine heads going out of tune.
Step 2
Grab a sheet of towel/cloth and fold it in half length wise. Fold it length wise again so you have a long rectangular piece. Do the same thing to the other sheet. This one will be the "Oiling Rag".
Step 3
Slide the dry sheet under the guitar strings just near the bridge, then fold it over so the other half covers the top of the strings.
Step 4
Now, slide this piece along the length of the strings, right up to the nut. Apply some downward pressure to clean the top part, and pull up on the paper to clean the underside of the strings too. (This is just as important as the top) Even if the head gets lifted off it's mount, it still helps.
Step 5
If you notice a little bit of muck and dirt on the towel, then your doing fine. It won't always be like that, but this step helps set the strings for the oiling.
Step 6
Apply some WD40 to one side of the other piece of paper towel and wrap it around the strings the same way as the first piece. Run this piece along the length of the strings using the same process as before.
Step 7
When that's finished, the strings should look noticeably shiny and be very oily and smooth to touch.
Tips
- This technique can be applied to most types of guitar. The only variation needed is when your dealing with a Bass guitar or a Warr guitar. Due to the thickness of each individual string, you're much better off cleaning them one at a time for that perfect result.
- When you pick up the guitar again, you might want to get another piece of dry paper towel and repeat step 5 if you don't like the feel of oily fingers.
- Some of my mates asked me how often this should be done. It's best done maybe once a week or whenever you feel the strings need a touch-up.
Warnings
- Try not to get any oil on the fret board. It doesn't harm the guitar in any noticeable way, it just makes it look kind of sloppy.
- Little bits of paper towel might stick to the strings, but if you've folded the paper properly, this can be avoided completely.
- This process can sometimes drop the guitar out of tune from too much pressure on the strings.
- Nylon string guitars won't need any oil when cleaning. A light spot of water on the towel will suffice, being careful not to get any on the guitar itself.
Things You'll Need
- WD40
- Paper towel. (try to go for the super absorbent expensive stuff. It's gives noticeably better results.
- A small object to rest the guitar head on during the process.
