The Electra Forums

Hey since most of my fretboards are rosewood, I was curious to know what you all use to condition your guitars necks. In Florida it was not a big issue since it was about 80% humidity all the time. But now in TN the boards are looking a bit dry. I have been running humidifiers in the house but it rarely gets above 37% RH in the house during these cold months.

I have heard Lemon Oil, Mineral Oil, Gibson fretboard conditioner but want your opinion.

I use Linseed Oil. Just enough to see you've got it on the board, a quick rub, and a wipe down. Then I let it sit for a day or so. A little goes a long way and it seems a little less slick to me than either mineral or lemon oil.

I'll 2nd the boiled linseed oil. When you change strings go over the fretboard with 0000 steel wool and linseed oil. The oil nourishes the wood and the steel wool cleans it up without being too abrasive. It's what Taylor recommends for their guitars, they have a good video on the proceedure on their website.

Where in TN?

I agree with the above but also for short term use and a quick clean Fast Fret works OK also.

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Always give thanks for everyday, It may be your last so Rock On Semper Fi!!

Yep; all good - I clean the fingerboard at each string change with the wifes' electric toothbrush and some warm soapy water; I've found that the steel wool doesn't get right in beside the frets, dry thoroughly and then as many coats of whatever fretboard conditioner I have lying around until the wood doesn't suck up the oil anymore! Wipe off any excess and re-string...

I'm using Lem-oil atm...

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"... and on the eighth day, God created New Zealanders.

Because even the Australians need heroes."

So... Your wife must be pleased with her clean lemony fresh breath?

Sorry to disagree Corsair, but I'd never recommend using water on an unfinished rosewood fretboard.

Shhhhh... she doesn't know!! I've been doing it this way for 30 years and have seen no harm come to the guitar that I've had since 1980 - the trick is to use as much as you need and no more, and it has to be dries thoroughly!!

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"... and on the eighth day, God created New Zealanders.

Because even the Australians need heroes."

i use extra virgin olive oil...jimmyd

If you are serious Jimmyd, you may want to think twice. A natural oil like EVOO can go rancid. A mineral based oil is a better choice.

I use lizard spit. yes, really.

South of Nashville. In the 'burbs.

Is Linseed Oil OK to use on Ebony too? I have a Rhoads that can seriously use a dose.

It's ok for any non-sealed board. Just use sparingly. Lots of people say not to use anything - just play the guitar and the oils from your fingers will do the job. Me, I like to clean the gunk off and oil up every once in a while - and that goes for my guitar necks too!