The Forgotten Guitar: How to Keep Your Guitar in Top Condition
Ah, the electric guitar. For generations it has been the go-to instrument for rock gods and metal shredders alike. Its twangy riffs and iconic solos have been echoing through amps ever since Leo Fender invented the Fender Broadcaster in the 1950s. But who’s looking after the guitars? It’s easy to take for granted its tone, playability and seemingly indestructible build – its maintenance can easily become an afterthought.
Truth is, if you want to keep your guitar in top condition, you need to pay it some attention. Replacing strings, cleaning the fretboard and looking after the body are all simple tasks that – if done correctly – can add years to the life of your cherished electric guitar.
We’re here to help. This guide to guitar maintenance covers everything you need to do to keep your guitar in top condition, featuring step-by-step instructions and handy tips. Ready? Let’s get started.
Replacing Guitar Strings
There’s no getting around it: strings must be replaced when they start to go flat, become discolored or lose their resonance. It’s one of the essential parts of guitar maintenance. Fortunately, it’s also an easy task to do, so let’s get stuck in.
First, purchase your strings – most guitarists prefer to use organic nickel-wound strings, which are more expensive but better for sound quality. Make sure you get the right gauge – usually printed on a packet – and that you have enough strings to do the job (six for electric, twelve for acoustic).
Now, start by loosening the tuning keys until all strings are loose. Pull out the old strings, making sure they don’t fly off and land on your fretboard. Then, insert the new strings, one by one, from top to bottom. Start tightening the strings with a small screwdriver and tuning organ; use dialling to get the strings in tune.
Once you’re done, check for any little kinks or blockages that might hinder the strings’ freedom of movement. Any final adjustments can also be done with the screwdriver. And voila, you’ve replaced your strings! Piece of cake, wasn’t it?
Cleaning Your Fretboard
Fretboard maintenance is possibly the most important – and the least obvious – part of guitar maintenance. Dirt, oil and sweat buildup on the fretboard quickly accumulate over time, so it’s essential to pay it some attention. Fortunately, it’s a simple task to do.
First, use a warm cloth or piece of handkerchief and wipe away all the dirt and sweat from the frets and fretboard. Do this every two weeks (or more often if you’re a frequent player). This will help maintain playability and resonance.
Now, take a fret cleaner (you can buy this at most music stores) and spray it across the entire fretboard. Wait for the solution to settle, then rub down the fretboard with a damp cloth. This should remove any stubborn dirt and aid the resonance of the strings.
Finally, lightly polish the fretboard with a dry cloth and buff the side of the frets. This should keep your fretboard in good condition and keep it clean for a long time.
Keeping Your Guitar Body Clean
You may not think about it often, but your guitar also needs some body maintenance. Sweat and dust buildup can become a solid thing over time, making your guitar look like an old-school relic. To keep it in top condition, take a soft cloth or microfiber cloth and gently rub down the body of the guitar and all its components. Don’t use water – that could damage the paint.
Cleaning your guitar’s body also goes a long way in keeping the electronics and tuners in good shape. Take a tiny brush – or even an old toothbrush – and gently clean around the knobs and electronics. This will help keep the dust buildup away, as well as prevent any potential problems with your guitar’s controls.
Finally, you can use rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab to clean the fretboard, neck and any visible scratches on the guitar body. This will help keep your guitar looking in tip-top condition.
So there you have it! A guide to keep your electric guitar in top condition. Replacing strings, cleaning the fretboard, cleaning the guitar body – it’s all easy if you follow the above steps.
Remember: guitar maintenance is an essential part of keeping your instrument in good shape. So don’t forget about it – do it regularly and you’ll be rocking out in no time! What are you waiting for? Pick up that guitar and get playing!