Can I use alcohol wipes to clean my guitar?

Author: David Rempel  |  Last update: Saturday, June 28, 2025

Rubbing alcohol is fine to use for disinfecting unfinished woods like rosewood, ebony, and maple.

Is it okay to clean guitar with wipes?

No, never use wipes or bleach on a guitar. Don't use anything that contains alcohol or silicone either. Don't use sandpaper, scouring powder or abrasive pads. And don't try to burn off the dirt with a flamethrower.

What can I wipe my guitar with?

To properly sanitize, you can use 70% isopropyl alcohol/rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer, or disinfecting wipes to wipe down the guitar. Apply the solution to a rag and wipe down the guitar. Then immediately wipe dry with another cloth. Don't saturate or scrub an area or you will damage the finish. If wiping down the fr.

Is rubbing alcohol good for guitar?

If you do it all the time, it will lead to a dried out fretboard, and that can be really, really bad for your guitar in the long run. The good news is there are other solutions that aren't just isopropyl alcohol that will do a good job of cleaning your guitar strings.

Can you use rubbing alcohol on instruments?

For instruments that are metal use alcohol swabs and/or mix a solution of 70% isopropyl alcohol with water in a spray bottle, apply it directly to a cloth to snake through the inside of your brass instrument and wipe down all exterior metal surfaces. Also, use it to spray both the inside and outside of your case.

Guitar Cleaning Myths

Can I use an alcohol wipe on guitar?

Best Guitar Cleaners To Use

Delicate finishes will damage with the caustic chemicals found in some alcohol-based cleaners, but water-based solutions are safe to use. Just be sure not to use too much on any open-grain guitar, which will absorb moisture.

Where should you not use rubbing alcohol?

Flammable Surfaces

Rubbing alcohol is a highly flammable substance, so you should never use it to clean flammable surfaces, or areas that are exposed to open flames (such as a fireplace). It's also a smart idea to steer clear of surfaces that routinely get hot.

What can I use to clean my fretboard?

To bring the shine back to your frets, many people will use soft wire wool. The 0000 grade stuff is the only steel wool to use here as anything else is just too abrasive!

Does rubbing alcohol affect metal?

However, if isopropyl alcohol is left in contact with metal for an extended period of time or is used in excessive amounts, it may cause damage to the metal surface, such as discoloration or loss of shine. Therefore it is recommended to wipe off after using it as a cleaner.

How to clean a Taylor guitar?

The fingerboard and bridge on Taylor guitars are unfinished wood (most likely ebony) that has been conditioned with boiled linseed oil. Don't use any polish or wax cleaners on these areas – Taylor recommends using extra-fine steel wool to clean the frets and fingerboards.

What is a good substitute for guitar cleaner?

Dab vinegar onto a cotton ball.

I use rice vinegar, but any neutral vinegar will do (don't use balsamic) because it is a wonderful cleaning agent. Rub the vinegar over the fret board carefully as you replace each string.

Can I use Windex to clean a guitar?

In general, you want to stay away from household cleaners, things like PineSol or Windex or furniture polish, these things generally don't do well on a guitar finish.

Is it OK to wipe guitar strings?

The big thing is to wipe the strings, neck and pickups down with your microfiber cloth before and after you play. You should also wipe off the fretboard and body post-practice. Before playing, wash your hands with soap and water to remove oils, food debris or anything else that may be lingering.

What do I wipe my guitar with?

Most luthiers (the people who build and repair guitars) will tell you that the best cleaner is simply a soft, damp—wrung out, not dripping wet—cotton cloth, such as an old tee shirt. Use it to wipe skin oil, grime, and smudges from your guitar and then use a soft, dry cloth to absorb excess moisture and buff.

Can I clean my guitar with a wet paper towel?

Avoid all-purpose cleaners and furniture polish. Don't use paper towels, which can scratch the finish on guitars.

Are Clorox wipes safe for guitars?

Clorox wipes are safe to use on guitars, but you should take a few precautions. First, make sure you're using a lint-free cloth. Second, avoid getting the cloth too wet. Third, avoid using too much pressure.

Will isopropyl alcohol damage electronics?

Isopropyl alcohol evaporates quickly and it's relatively non-toxic. Isopropyl alcohol removes oils, adhesives, fingerprints, soldering flux and other contaminants, making it ideal for cleaning electronics.

Is cleaning with isopropyl alcohol safe?

Occasional, brief use of IPA products (e.g., wiping down a cell phone or counter) isn't typically a concern, but sustained wiping or spraying activities in a room or enclosed area creates risk for high exposure.

Does alcohol react with metal?

Alcohols are weakly acidic in nature and react with active metals.

Can I use wipes to clean fretboard?

It is not safe to use wet wipes to clean your guitar. Depending on the type of wet wipe, it might have harsh chemicals that can cause damage to the guitar. Plus, many are fragranced, which you won't want to transfer to your instrument.

Can I use alcohol to clean my guitar?

Don't use rubbing alcohol

Rubbing alcohol, if it gets on the guitar's neck, can end up sucking out some of the moisture from the guitar's wood. A guitar that is overly dry can become damaged overtime. You don't want this.

What household items can you use to clean a guitar?

A soft cloth, like an old t-shirt or a sock, will do the job well, along with some water, glass cleaner, and a guitar polish that contains pure carnauba wax.

Will isopropyl alcohol damage metal?

99% isopropyl alcohol is used: To clean surfaces, both alone and as a component of a general-purpose cleaner, or as a solvent. 99% isopropyl alcohol has the benefit of being non-corrosive to metals or plastics, so it can be used widely, on all surfaces, and won't leave smears, even on glass or screens.

What is the difference between isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol?

Isopropyl alcohol and rubbing alcohol are not the same. Rubbing alcohol consists of isopropyl alcohol and some water. Sometimes it contains other additional ingredients. On the other hand, isopropyl alcohol is pure alcohol with little to no water and other ingredients.

What does spraying alcohol on bed sheets do?

Not only does alcohol make an excellent bedding and mattress disinfectant spray, but spraying alcohol on sheets also helps to eliminate unpleasant odors caused by sweat, spills, and other sources to leave your bed smelling nice and fresh.

Previous article
What are the three cold colors?
Next article
How long can paint sit unused?