How to Clean the Violin and Bow?

When we learn how to play the violin, we should learn how to clean it too. If you clean the violin and bow regularly, they will maintain its good quality, and shiny appearance too.

Here, we show you some simple step by step methods you can use to clean your violin and bow. Alternatively, you can also bring it to a violin shop for cleaning and polishing.

Cleaning and Polishing
the Violin

Before you start, get...

1) A polishing solvent,

2) 2 soft cloth,

3) A well-lighted place.

Watch this video.
It explains the simple violin polishing process.

Things to note:

1) Remember to apply the polish onto the cloth, Not directly onto the violin.

2) Get a good solvent from a reliable source.

3) Don't rub too hard to remove the dirts and stains. You can damage the violin.4) If you're not confident to clean the violin, get a professional to do it (recommended).

Cleaning the Violin Bow

Before you start, get...

1) A small amount of denatured alcohol

2) A container

3) A toothbrush

4) A soft cloth

Watch this video.
It explains the simple violin bow cleaning process

Things to note:

1) Denatured alcohol dissolves the rosin and remove them from the bow hair. However, it also dissolves other things too.

2) Do not let the denatured alcohol touch the bow stick. It will dissolve the varnish of the bow (even if it's not varnished, it's still not a good idea).

3) Wear gloves every time you need to handle denatured alcohol (although the video didn't show). Protect your hands.

4) Never soak your bow hair with denatured alcohol too many times, as it will dry out the bow hair.

5) If you're not confident to clean the violin bow, get a professional to do it (recommended).

Cleaning the violin and bow can keep your violin in good condition, and extending its lifespan too. Other than cleaning and polishing, daily habits of storing the violin well, and taking care of the bow is important too.