Miami Piano Movers – By El Al Relocation | Trusted Piano Movers and Storage Experts Across South Florida
Over time, even the most beautiful pianos can show signs of wear — especially on the keys. If you’ve noticed your piano keys turning yellow, you’re not alone. Whether you own a baby grand piano in Boca Raton or an upright piano in Coral Gables, discoloration is a common issue, especially in South Florida’s heat and humidity.
At Miami Piano Movers – By El Al Relocation, we don’t just move and store pianos — we also care about their long-term condition. In this guide, we’ll explain why piano keys yellow, how to clean or restore them, and when it’s time to call in a professional.
🎹 Why Do Piano Keys Turn Yellow?
Piano keys, especially older ones, are made from ivory or plastic — both of which are susceptible to discoloration over time. The most common causes of yellowing include:
- Sunlight exposure (UV rays break down materials)
- Humidity and heat, especially in homes from Miami to Fort Lauderdale
- Oils and dirt from fingers
- Aging material, particularly ivory keys
Yellowing doesn’t necessarily mean the keys are damaged, but it can affect the aesthetic value and make your piano look older than it is.
🧽 How to Clean Yellow Piano Keys (Safely)
Before you begin, always check whether your piano keys are ivory or plastic. The cleaning method will vary.
✅ Step 1: Determine the Material
- Ivory keys are usually slightly off-white, may have fine grain lines, and feel textured.
- Plastic keys are smooth and consistent in color and texture.
For Plastic Piano Keys:
🧼 Method 1: Mild Soap & Water
- Mix a small amount of dish soap with warm water.
- Dip a soft white cloth (avoid colored cloths) into the solution and wring it out.
- Wipe each key individually, front to back, not side to side.
- Dry immediately with a clean, dry cloth.
Important: Never let water drip between the keys!
🧽 Method 2: White Toothpaste (Non-Gel)
- Apply a small amount to a cloth and gently rub it on yellowed keys.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth, then dry thoroughly.
For Ivory Piano Keys:
🌤️ Method 1: Sunlight Bleaching (Yes, Really!)
- Ivory has natural whitening properties when exposed to indirect sunlight.
- Remove the fallboard (if possible) and allow the keys to sit in indirect sun for a few hours per day.
- Do this over a few days — never expose to direct sunlight, as it may warp or crack the keys.
🍋 Method 2: Lemon Juice and Baking Soda Paste
- Mix lemon juice and baking soda into a paste.
- Apply gently with a soft cloth, rubbing lightly.
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth and dry immediately.
Note: Always test a small area first. Ivory is porous and delicate.
⚠️ What NOT to Do When Cleaning Piano Keys
To avoid damaging your keys or the piano itself, never:
- Use bleach or household cleaners like Windex or 409
- Soak the keys with water
- Use colored cloths (they can transfer dye)
- Clean side-to-side (moisture can seep between keys)
- Scrub aggressively
If you’re unsure, it’s always best to call a piano professional.
🎵 When to Call a Piano Restoration Expert
If your keys are:
- Severely yellowed or stained
- Chipped, cracked, or warped
- Loose or squeaky
- Beyond DIY restoration
Then it’s time to contact a piano technician or restorer. Depending on the condition, they may:
- Whiten or reface ivory keys
- Replace keytops on plastic keys
- Polish and recondition key surfaces
- Or fully refurbish your piano’s action and aesthetics
We work with trusted piano restoration specialists throughout South Florida, from Miami Beach to Delray Beach, and can refer you to the right expert if needed.
💼 How Miami Piano Movers Can Help
While we don’t perform piano key restoration in-house, we safely move, transport, and store pianos in all conditions — including antique instruments or those undergoing restoration.
Whether you’re:
- Having your piano restored in Boca Raton
- Moving a family heirloom to a restorer in Hollywood
- Storing a delicate instrument in our air-conditioned facility in Miami-Dade
We treat your piano like a valuable instrument — not just a piece of furniture.
🛠️ Bonus: Piano Maintenance Tips to Prevent Yellowing
- Keep your piano covered when not in use
- Avoid placing it near windows or heat vents
- Use a humidifier or dehumidifier depending on season
- Clean keys regularly with a soft, dry cloth
- Wash hands before playing to minimize oils on the keys
Piano care is all about preventative maintenance — and it starts with regular cleaning and climate control.
🎹 Need Help Moving or Storing Your Piano?
Whether your piano is headed to a restorer in Plantation, being stored during renovations in Sunny Isles Beach, or you’re moving your baby grand from Davie to Coral Gables, our team is ready to help.
📦 Climate-controlled piano storage available
🚚 Licensed & insured piano moving service
🎹 From Homestead to West Palm Beach — and beyond
📞 Call Today: 305-402-4557
🌐 Visit Us: www.floridapianomover.com
Miami Piano Movers – By El Al Relocation
Protecting South Florida’s Pianos with Care, Expertise, and Respect
Piano Maintenance Tips to Prevent Yellowing
Comments are closed