Dust the piano every couple days to prevent dust from settling on the piano and making its way into the soundboard and the action mechanism.
Avoid coarse cloths, synthetic materials, and paper towels, all of which can scratch the keys. Don’t use colored materials, because they can transfer dye to the piano. Don’t use a side-to-side motion when cleaning, because this can push dirt and moisture down between the keys. To identify ivory keys, look for a grain that runs in the direction of the keys, fine splits, warped areas, and a matte finish.
Fill a small bowl with clean water and a few drops of liquid dish detergent or vinegar. [2] X Research source Mix the solution, then dip in a clean white flannel or microfiber cloth. Wring out the excess water and gently rub a few keys using the back-to-front motion. Take the cloth that’s damp with clean water and go over those keys to remove excess cleaning solution. Go over the keys with the dry cloth. Repeat with a few more keys until all the keys are clean and dry.
Be sure to use a non-abrasive cloth, such as cotton or microfiber. This process will remove dust from the casework and remove dirt, smudges, and fingerprints. Make sure the cloth is just slightly damp. You don’t actually want the damp cloth to leave behind any visible moisture.
It’s important that you use specific polish that’s safe for pianos, and only polish when the piano really needs a thorough cleaning, buffing, or has some fine scratches that need to be filled. Polishing can actually damage the finish on the piano, and if it gets inside, it can damage the action components. Don’t use a high-gloss polish if your piano has a lacquer finish, because lacquer finishes aren’t meant to be high-gloss. Instead, use a product with a satin finish. Only use high-gloss polishes on polymer finishes. Do not use regular household furniture polish, avoid silicone-based products, avoid products with lemon oil, and don’t spray aerosol products on or near the piano, because they can damage the exterior and interior of the piano.
Hold the vacuum or compressed air nozzle a few inches (several centimeters) from the surface of the soundboard and use vertical strokes in the direction of the strings to blow out dust. [4] X Research source Make sure that you don’t touch the strings or the dampers with the vacuum nozzle, the air can, or your fingers. Blow the dust and dirt to an accessible corner of the piano, and then use a vacuum on suck mode to clean up the mess.
Professional cleaners won’t just clean what they can see, and they’ll also remove the keys and other parts to get at dust and dirt in every nook and cranny. [5] X Research source
To wash your hands properly, wet them under running water and add soap. Lather your hands for at least 20 seconds, getting the fronts, backs, between the fingers, and under the nails. Rinse with running water, then pat dry with a clean towel. [7] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Don’t keep the piano near any drafts or vents, and don’t store it in any room that’s prone to dampness.
Never place drinks, food, or liquids on top of the piano, and never let the piano come in contact with vinyl or rubber.
