One of the reasons the ukulele is a popular instrument is that it appeals to people of all skill levels, including beginners. Learning how to play this small guitar is only half the battle to producing the best sound. For optimal results, musicians must practice the following maintenance guide.

5 Simple Tips for Ukulele Care

1. Wash Your Hands

The natural oils and dirt on your fingers will transfer onto the instrument when you play. These substances wear away at the ukulele, and its surface will become damaged, diminishing the sound quality. To keep your ukulele clean, get in the habit of washing your hands with warm water and soap before playing.

2. Clean It Regularly

Even if you wash your hands, the instrument will still catch some skin oils, dirt, and dust. Wipe the wooden surface with a microfiber or cotton cloth to clean it. Rub cotton swabs along each section of the fretboard to clean under the strings. While you should avoid using harsh chemicals, it’s typically safe to use a standard guitar cleaner.

3. Store It Safely

Ukuleles are fragile instruments, and they can experience severe damage if they’re dropped. To prevent accidents, always keep your instrument in a properly-sized, hard case whenever it isn’t in use.

4. Monitor the Humidity

Excessive moisture in the air will cause the ukulele’s wood to warp. Conversely, too little humidity will dry the wood, causing it to crack. Use a hygrometer wherever you store your ukulele to monitor the humidity level—it should be around 50%. If it drops below 40%, you may need to use a humidifier to keep the air moist. If it rises above 60%, use an air conditioner to eliminate the moisture.

5. Replace the Strings

Ukulele strings will wear over time, and the instrument’s sound will dull. If you notice a drop in performance, it may be time to restring the fretboard. You may also need to restring it if the strings no longer feel smooth, or you have to tune them frequently. Be sure to replace all strings simultaneously to keep the sound consistent.

If you want to stock up on maintenance products, head to Kanile'a 'Ukulele in Kaneohe, HI. This locally owned shop carries cleaning solutions, cases, humidifiers, and strings to lengthen your ukulele’s life span. View their full inventory of music accessories online, or call (808) 234-2868 if it’s time for a new instrument.