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Historical author
Do you think the acidity of hand sweat can alter the coloration of the ivory covering the piano keys?
I am asking because I have noticed that over time my piano keys have darkened, and I think it is all due to my summer "sweaty hands"...
... as far as you know, are there any remedies to "whiten" or restore the ivory to its original color?
Thanks to anyone who can lend me a hand
Moderator
The alteration should be reversible with a cleaning. Use a cotton pad slightly dampened with water and a drop of dish soap. Dry perfectly. Instead, remember to always keep the keyboard open, in the light, to avoid yellowing....that is permanent.
If a more radical intervention is needed, the keys must be disassembled (if it is an upright, it is not difficult) and polished with a cloth disc and very fine Tripoli (a sort of special white paste). This intervention must be done by an expert technician.
P.S. Naturally, greasy sweat will stain again and you will periodically clean it using the first method
Thank you Pianoexpert for the punctual and precise suggestions. I really appreciate those who don't act superior about their (immense) expertise... and here I was thinking the problem was irreversible.
It only worries me a little bit
pianoexpert wrote:Instead, remembering to always keep the keyboard open, in the light, to avoid yellowing....that is permanent.
I will be more careful.
Moderator
It is not a matter of being careful. Play freely and then perform cleaning periodically. Anyway, during the next technical service, you can ask to have it polished, with the necessary precautions much as well.
Member
Hello pianoexpert. I also have a problem with the ivory keys of my 1906 Bechstein. I would like to polish the keys and make them smooth and shiny again. I have read several techniques that you have given positive indications for, and I would like your opinion. Is it better to use various stages of sandpaper (from 1500 to 2000 and beyond) and then finish with a polish, or is it better to use Tripoli paste, perhaps with a cloth disc and a low-speed drill? In any case, can you suggest which Tripoli paste to choose, since there are many types on the Web? And the polish? Is there a specific one or one that you use in general? Thank you very much in advance for the advice.
Moderator
The very fine Tripoli and canvas wheel.... but you have to know how to do it, otherwise you get the opposite effect... you risk "burning the ivory". It takes a bit of a "touch"
