Omar Khalid
The use of alcohol to clean piano keys is a widely debated topic, with varying advice from different sources. Piano manufacturers advise against using any form of alcohol to disinfect piano keys, as it can cause discolouration and cracking, especially on ivory keys. However, some people recommend using alcohol wipes or a solution of 70% alcohol and 30% water to clean plastic piano keys, claiming that it dries quickly and does not damage the keys. While it is generally agreed that disinfectant wipes are safe for plastic keys, there are mixed opinions about using alcohol-based products. Some sources state that cleaning substances containing alcohol are safe for plastic keys, while others suggest avoiding cleaners with harsh ingredients like isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, and peroxide. Ultimately, the decision to use alcohol comes down to personal preference and the specific type of piano keys, with extra caution needed for ivory or old piano keys.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alcohol damage to plastic piano keys | No damage to plastic piano keys, but can cause discolouration and cracking to ivory keys |
| Alternative cleaning methods | Mild soap and water, vinegar, disinfectant wipes, dish soap and water, toothpaste, milk |
| Other recommendations | Keep the key cover closed when not in use, wash hands regularly |
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What You'll Learn
Alcohol can be used to clean piano keys
If you have plastic piano keys, you can use disinfectant wipes or create your own solution with 70% alcohol and 30% water to give the keys a light wipe. It is important to note that you should avoid using sprays or large amounts of water, as this could damage the keys. Always follow up with a dry towel and ensure no liquids are left on the piano or keys.
For older pianos, it is recommended to use basic soap and water instead of alcohol. A solution of soap and warm water can be used to wipe down the keys, followed by a damp cloth to remove any soap residue. A trusted disinfectant with a low concentration of the active ingredient can then be applied, left for 30 seconds to a few minutes, and wiped away with another damp cloth.
It is also worth noting that vinegar should be avoided when cleaning ivory keys, but it can be used on plastic keys. Additionally, always wash your hands before playing the piano, and avoid using reusable towels or cloths that could spread germs.
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Plastic keys are more common than ivory
The use of plastic for piano keys became common with the advent of better plastic technology around 1929. Plastic was cheaper, easier to work with, and less susceptible to damage than ivory. It was also more flexible and less brittle, making it easier to manufacture larger pieces. With the onset of the Great Depression, piano makers sought to make their instruments more affordable, contributing to the popularity of plastic keys.
During World War II, materials were scarce, and the focus remained on producing affordable pianos. The Ivory ban of the 1980s further solidified the use of plastic as the primary material for piano keys. Today, most pianos, even acoustic ones, are protected with plastic keys. Resins are also used as an alternative to plastic, offering higher resistance to cracking, chipping, or yellowing, but at a higher production cost.
Digital pianos exclusively feature plastic keys, which can be regular plastic or modified plastic designed to resemble ivory, known as Ivorite. Ivorite keys provide a similar texture and friction to ivory, addressing the preference of pianists for a certain level of friction that allows their fingers to glide more easily over the keys.
While ivory keys were commonly used in pianos before 1930, they are now less prevalent due to the shift towards plastic and resin keys. Ivory is derived from elephant tusks, and given that elephants are an endangered species, the ivory trade has been banned. Additionally, ivory keys are more prone to chipping and cracking, especially at the ends, and are more challenging to maintain, requiring specific cleaning solutions and techniques.
In summary, plastic piano keys have become more common than ivory due to their affordability, durability, ease of manufacturing, and lower maintenance requirements. The transition to plastic keys was influenced by economic factors, technological advancements, and the ban on the ivory trade, resulting in the widespread adoption of plastic as the primary material for piano keys in modern pianos.
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Vinegar is not suitable for ivory keys
While vinegar is recommended for cleaning plastic piano keys, it is not suitable for ivory keys. Ivory is a natural polymer that is porous and will absorb anything on its surface. Vinegar, a disinfectant, can cause discolouration and cracking.
It is important to know what kind of piano keys you are cleaning. Plastic keys are smoother, whiter, and more common than ivory keys. They are typically found on digital pianos and keyboards. Plastic keys are also more common on newer pianos, as ivory was mostly used on pianos made before the 1950s.
Ivory keys will develop a yellow hue over time, and this discolouration can be difficult to reverse. To remove surface dirt and marks, use a soft, clean, damp cloth with warm water. Be sure to squeeze out any excess water before cleaning, as too much water can damage the ivory and cause the keys to swell.
There are other methods to clean ivory piano keys. A mild solution of warm water and a small amount of dish soap can be effective. Be sure to use a white cloth to avoid any colour bleeding onto the keys. Toothpaste can also be used to brighten ivory keys. Only use plain, white toothpaste, as gel and coloured toothpaste can corrode and discolour the ivory.
Another method to whiten ivory keys is to place the piano in indirect sunlight, as this can help bleach the keys. A white vinyl eraser can also be used to gently rub down each key, ensuring that no eraser bits get stuck between the keys.
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Water can damage ivory piano keys
To clean ivory piano keys, it is recommended to use a white or light-coloured cloth, as a coloured cloth may transfer its dye to the ivory. The cloth should be damp, not dripping wet, and only a small amount of mild soap with no fragrance or harsh chemicals should be used. If you do not want to use soap, a damp cloth will do the trick. Be sure to dry the keys with a clean cloth afterwards, ensuring there is no excess water sitting on the keys.
There are other methods to clean ivory piano keys. One is to use non-coloured toothpaste, which can help to brighten ivory piano keys with stains or yellowing. Another is to use milk, as the fatty acids and calcium in milk will clean and protect the ivory. A more dangerous method is to use grade #0000 super fine steel wool, as steel wool can create scratches and other damage. A natural way to lighten piano keys is to place the piano in direct sunlight, although this may cause fading, warping, and humidity issues for the rest of the piano.
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Disinfectant wipes are recommended for plastic keys
Disinfectant wipes are recommended for plastic piano keys, but not all wipes are suitable for this purpose. Disinfectant wipes such as Lysol or Clorox can be used on non-porous surfaces, which includes plastic piano keys. However, disinfectant wipes that contain large concentrations of alcohol or phenol should be avoided as they can damage the keys.
It is important to note that piano manufacturers generally advise against the use of disinfectants on piano keys, as they can be harsh and potentially harmful. Instead, they recommend wiping the keys with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with plain water or a mild detergent solution, and then wiping them dry with a second soft, dry cloth. This method will effectively remove dirt and grease, but it may not eliminate all disease-causing microorganisms.
If you choose to use disinfectant wipes on your plastic piano keys, it is recommended to follow the instructions on the product label carefully and to heed all warnings. It is also important to wash your hands after using disinfectant wipes and to keep them away from children and pets.
In addition to disinfectant wipes, other methods can be used to clean plastic piano keys. One method is to mix a few drops of dish soap with water and use a damp white washcloth to wipe the keys gently. It is important to ensure that there is no excess water on the cloth to prevent water from overflowing into the keys. For more aggressive stains or fingerprints, a water and vinegar solution can be used, but proper ventilation is necessary due to the smell of vinegar.
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Frequently asked questions
No, using products containing alcohol to clean plastic piano keys is fine. However, it is recommended to use disinfectant wipes instead of sprays or liquids to avoid damaging the piano with excess moisture.
Mild soap and water is a safe alternative for cleaning plastic piano keys. Vinegar is also safe for plastic keys, but it is not as effective as chemical products.
Piano keys made of ivory should not be cleaned with alcohol as it can cause discolouration and cracking.
