String Cleaner

[rcsnydley]

I was reading an article about the 10 things you should have in your gig bag and one of them was string cleaner. I was wondering if anyone uses it and what type, kind, brand, etc. you use.

Keep Playing
Ric

[cosmicmechanic]

I use to use GHS Fast Fret for many years. I recently switched to John Pearse String Swipes. They reduce--and prevent--oxidation, sweat and oil build-up. My strings have lasted almost twice as long using them.

[haoli25]

I use "The String Cleaner". Not bad for 10 dollars.

http://www.thestringcleaner.com/



Haoli

[rcsnydley]

Haoli - I've seen this advertised on Guitar Worlds website, so it really works?

Keep Playing
Ric

[rcsnydley]

I've seen it too and am interested. I like the idea of it cleaning all sides of the strings. Currently, I take a Pearse String Swipe between my fingers to get all around the string, then clean it off with a polishing cloth the same way.

[Lavallee]

Is it necessary to clean after each practice session? Besides longevity of the strings, are there other benefits?

Another topic: what is the sign that tells you that you should change your strings?

Thanks

Marc

[Music Junkie]

I clean after every time oil from my fingers touch the strings. For me it's not even longevity so much as better tone and feel. Signs that you should change strings include: they don't hold a tuning very well, corrosion or discoloration on the string, pits or bare spots on the strings from fret contact, they sound dull or "dead", they break from old age, they look dull with no "shine". For heavier playing about once a month is a general rule. Some players are fanatic about strings and change the more often. For me it depends on how much playing I've done on them, how the strings look and sound, and if I've had a gig or jam where I sweated a lot.

[Chasplaya]

Lavallee wrote:

Is it necessary to clean after each practice session? Besides longevity of the strings, are there other benefits?

Another topic: what is the sign that tells you that you should change your strings?

Thanks

Marc

I usually wipe them down after each session with a cloth, occasionally use Fast Fret, although I'm thinking Fast Fret might not be so good as I think its a silicon based product (stand to be corrected on that) if so it must leave a residue...

[haoli25]

Yes, Ric and Gingold, 'The String Cleaner' really does work as advertised. I feel like it doubles the life of my strings. And with multiple guitars (4), the savings are really adding up.


Haoli

[Lavallee]

Thanks Gingold, I bought new strings tonight as the existing ones are all of what you described. As for the sound, I had them for a year so I do not remember what new strings sounds like. I will try to get that String Cleaner, Haoli mentioned. They did not have any at the store I went. I migth have to wait for my next visit in the US to get it. I like the idea of cleaning them easily with that clamp device. If it is easy, I will do it more often. I am not sure if I am as dedicated as you and Chasplaya. However only fools never change their mind

Marc