What is a good way to clean a graphite fretboard?

leanne · #1 03-27-2006, 01:24 AM

I need to know how to clean a graphite fretboard, especially around the frets. I've been leaning towards using a fine steel wool, but I've seen quite varied opinions on this as far as graphite is concerned. I would think that even coarse steel wool wouldn't really harm graphite, but some of what I've read makes nervous, even though I think otherwise...

Thanks
Leanne

ehque · #2 03-27-2006, 01:46 AM

are you trying to clean your fretboard, or sand it down? why are you using steel wool in the first place? (ie, what are you trying to clean off) i havent gotten anything on my composite fretboard sticky enough not to be removed by a 3M high-quality cloth.

leanne · #3 03-27-2006, 01:56 AM

i am just trying to clean the gunk off the fretboard... it is especially built up around the frets.

ogyen · #4 03-27-2006, 06:08 AM

Roger Sadowsky recommends, in the FAQ section on his site, to use windex and a toothbrush on his finished maple boards and then polish them. I'd imagine you could do the same with a graphite board, though I wouldn't bother with the polish myself, I'd probably just wipe it down with a soft cloth after scrubbing it with windex. You shoud try and contact the manufacturer or check their site to see if they can recommend something.

62bass · #5 03-27-2006, 07:57 AM

Windex will work, as will naptha and mineral spirits (paint thinner)

Don't use steel wool or abrasive plastic pads. You'll scratch the graphite.

Wrap a little bit of cloth around the edge of a screwdriver or wooden matchstick to get close in to the fret. If you use a screwdriver make sure it doesn't poke through the cloth.

It's really an easy job and not worth getting psyched up about.