How to Safely Clean Ivory and Plastic Piano Keys
Using the wrong cleaning products can permanently ruin your piano keys. Learn the safest methods to remove dirt and grime from ivory and plastic.
Over time, piano keys accumulate dirt, oils from our fingers, and dust. However, reaching for standard household glass cleaners or bleach is a huge mistake. Harsh chemicals can melt plastic keytops or permanently warp and discolor genuine ivory keys. The safest way to clean plastic keys is with a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with a very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap. Wipe the keys gently toward you (never side-to-side, which pushes dirt between the keys), and immediately dry them with a separate microfiber cloth. For older pianos with genuine ivory keys, water is the enemy. Ivory is highly porous and will absorb moisture, leading to warping and detaching. Use a white vinyl eraser to gently rub away surface stains, or consult a professional piano technician for safe ivory polishing and whitening services.
When cleaning is not the real problem
If a key looks dirty but also sticks, returns slowly or rubs against the next key, cleaning the surface will not solve the cause. In Toronto homes, humidity can swell key bushings and older keytops may already be loose. Stop cleaning if a keytop moves, if moisture reaches the wood, or if the key starts to feel heavier after wiping.
For family pianos, older uprights and used pianos, James recommends separating cosmetic cleaning from mechanical repair. Read why piano keys stick before trying repeated cleaning, and use the piano care guide to check placement, humidity and routine maintenance.