Using a Chamois Cloth to Dust

For polyester or lacquer finish pianos

1. First time chamois prep: Rinse out thoroughly in soapy water. You can use any mild kitchen detergent such as liquid Joy.

2. Before each use, the chamois should be soaked in warm water (a few inches in the sink). Then it should be rinsed and wrung out well.

3. Fold the chamois in half and repeat until you have a pad about 4-5" X 6-7".

4. You should always dust in straight lines with the chamois. If it's a wood finish (walnut, mahogany) you should go in the direction of the grain. On an ebony piano, direction doesn't matter, just that you go in somewhat straight lines in the same direction.

5. If the piano is very dusty, you should only pull one swipe across the lid, then go to the other side of the chamois for the next swipe. Then fold it to the other side and use that, and keep unfolding it until you've used all the sides one time each. The chamois should then be thoroughly rinsed out again in your sink of water. The reason for this is the dust is really a fine abrasive and if you keep rubbing it around you will get the chamois loaded with dust, which will finely scratch the finish. The idea of the damp chamois is that it picks up all of the dust and holds it or suspends it until you can rinse it out in the water. If you have grease marks or heavy finger printing, just rub on it with the chamois and it should come out. Don't have the chamois wet enough to leave any streaking.

6. You can use the chamois and the same procedure to clean the key tops. Sitting at the piano, pull in one direction toward you. Don't go crosswise, because that puts pressure on the side of the key bushings. If the piano or the keys are really greasy or oily, you can use some liquid Joy in your water for a little soapier solution. Be careful that the chamois is dry enough to prevent water from dripping between the keys.

7. If you care to polish the piano, we do have a special polish that we recommend for polyester finishes. The chamois is also really good for the dusting of any of your household furniture.