How to Clean a Maple Fretboard
How to clean a maple fretboard
In this guide, we will show you how to clean maple fretboards. Cleaning maple fretboards are different depending on if they have a glossy or raw finish. Cleaning them the right way will remove dirt and grime from the frets as well as prolong the guitar’s life. Follow the instructions below which correspond to your maple fretboard’s finish type.
IMPORTANT! Not all fretboard cleaners are designed for guitars and some will even damage the maple fretboard’s finish. Only use a compatible maple fretboard cleaner recommended from our shop. Follow your guitar’s manufacturer’s recommendations for the best results.
Finished or glossy maple fretboard
Finished maple fretboards can be cleaned and polished with any standard guitar cleaner intended for finished woods. Do not apply abrasive materials which may damage the finish and only use lint-free, preferably microfiber, cloths. You can prevent buildup by cleaning the neck and fretboard after every single use, making sure to collect any debris and moisture. For a deeper clean, remove all the strings or just loosen them for easier access to the entire maple fretboard.
- Use a dry, lint-free microfiber cloth to wipe grime and moisture from in between and around the strings.
- Loosen or remove the strings for a deeper clean or to apply a light guitar polish. Allow the polish to sit for a few minutes before wiping dry with another microfiber cloth.
Unfinished or raw maple fretboard
Unfinished maple fretboards are essentially raw wood and require an oil based fretboard cleaner for cleaning and conditioning. Raw maple fretboards are typically oil finished by the manufacturer, so any compatible, non-abrasive fretboard treatment from our shop will work.
- Remove the strings prior to cleaning the maple fretboard.
- Use a lint-free microfiber cloth to massage the conditioner into the fretboard. Buff out the remaining cleaner with another microfiber cloth.
How to Clean & Condition an Unfinished Maple Fretboard
When you need help, Sweetwater has the answers!
Our knowledge base contains over 28,000 expertly written tech articles that will give you answers and help you get the most out of your gear. Our pro musicians and gear experts update content daily to keep you informed and on your way. Best of all, it’s totally FREE, and it’s just another reason that you get more at Sweetwater.com.
