👕 Get New Ernie Ball Merch Now!
  • Ernie Ball
  • Music Man
  • Sterling by Music Man
  • Security notice: Ernie Ball staff will never send you a direct message about a prize or giveaway, and will never ask you to click a link to "claim" anything.
    If you receive a message like that - even from an account whose name looks official - do not click the link. Please report it using the Report link on the message so the moderators can act. A scam campaign impersonating admin accounts was blocked on 29 July 2026; those accounts are banned and their messages have been deleted.
Majesty Premium Select

What type of oil is recomended to moisturize fretboards?

nismaniac

nismaniac

Well-known member
Joined
Jun 6, 2004
Messages
228
Location
Oklahoma
I know someone has probably told me in the past but I couldn't remember. If any of you use a certain type/brand I would appreciate you telling me your experience with it.

I don't think it matters but I have a rosewood fretboard.


Thanks for the info. :)
 
Lemon oil or orange oil - pure natural with no additives or preservatives. DON'T use furniture oil. If you hunt around you can find pure lemon or orange oil in hardware stores, otherwise the small bottles of essential oil (used for aromatherapy etc) are a good option, since you only need a few drops for fretboard.
 
nismaniac said:
I know someone has probably told me in the past but I couldn't remember. If any of you use a certain type/brand I would appreciate you telling me your experience with it.

I don't think it matters but I have a rosewood fretboard.


Thanks for the info. :)
Click to expand...

I've used raw linseed oil in the past on rosewood boards with great results. Some people reckon it's too sticky, but that's because they're using too much.
 
Alright, thanks for the responses. I ended up using some pure lemon oil. It looks amazing, I think the fingerboard was getting pretty thirsty. I'm glad to know there are some other options as well. With the oiled fingerboard and a new set of strings, she is looking beautiful!! :p
 
bassmonkeee said:
I really hope you are kidding. If not, please stop. :(
Click to expand...

Some years ago, I used vegetable oil on my Danelectro's fretboard. How's that for stupid? :)
 
Pledge (or any other wax polish for that metter) is fine, I've been using it for 7+ years with no ill effects.
 
JB1 said:
Pledge (or any other wax polish for that metter) is fine, I've been using it for 7+ years with no ill effects.
Click to expand...

Well, first of all, Pledge doesn't contain wax. Secondly, they themselves say not to use Pledge on unfinished wood.

Personally, I'd never in a million years use the stuff on an instrument. But, if you're happy, go for it. As my bass is not furniture, I won't be using furniture polish on it.
 
I guess no more Mr Sheen for me based on that article!

Think I'll just use a littl oil......lemon maybe!!!!
 
yeah...better safe than sorry....i use reg lemon oil as well
 
I seem to be prefacing a lot of posts with, "I could be wrong", but it seems I've read a lot of respected luthiers state that orange oil is the preferred choice because lemon tends to dry out the wood. I'll see what I can dig up.
 
From experience Orange oil can make the board really dark and change colors. It will work however as does lemon oil.

IMHO

tk
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Classic Rock N Roll Slinky
Back
Top