Fretboard Dryness

[Tristan of Bodom]

Hi all,

So, only on one of my guitars am I finding the fretboard to dry out quickly. From what I was told, it’s Rosewood.

Is this normal?

How often do you apply lemon oil or is there something more long-lasting?

Thanks!

 

[James Freeman]

What do you consider as dry?
It shouldn't look wet and oily all the time.

@Eagle may share his experience.

 

[Tristan of Bodom]

What do you consider as dry?
It shouldn't look wet and oily all the time.

@Eagle may share his experience.

It doesn’t feel as slick after a few days and the wood becomes a bit rough to the touch. Colour lightens as well

 

[Eagle]

What do you consider as dry?
It shouldn't look wet and oily all the time.

@Eagle may share his experience.

It should not really change colour if you add oil unless it’s dry. Also it stops absorption if it’s in good condition and you add oil. Rub it down with a dry cloth to remove excess.

 

[Tristan of Bodom]

It should not really change colour if you add oil unless it’s dry. Also it stops absorption if it’s in good condition and you add oil. Rub it down with a dry cloth to remove excess.

Thank you!

How frequently do you recommend I oil it?

 

[OrganicZed]

I don't have that issue, but I do treat / clean the fretboards on my guitars with every string change with Music Nomad F-One oil. I have seen other people use products that have a paste consistency to treat fretboards (never used one myself). The only one I could find when searching is called Monty's Instrument Food, though it does seem overpriced for what is likely silicone oil and bees wax.

 

[Blix]

Thank you!

How frequently do you recommend I oil it?

Wood is hygroscopic so it adjusts its moisture content to its environment. Oil doesn't "hydrate" wood in that sense.
No need to do it often. Once a year is fine.

 

[Tristan of Bodom]

Thanks everyone. Will apply and wipe off any excess and see if the board may just need some extra soaking and then see how it goes

 

[Eagle]

Thank you!

How frequently do you recommend I oil it?

It’s a judgment call, if it looks dry to you oil it. As long as you wipe off the excess you will be fine.

 

[JasonE]

I use Fret Doctor. It is a rosewood bore oil for wind instruments. A small bottle will last you many years. I am still on the first small bottle I bought and I have had it for probably close to 20 years, maybe longer. I only use it when a board looks very dry. I don't even have to use it once a year. I would say that I use it once every two or three years on each guitar. I find that the guitars I am playing more often don't seem to need it because they are picking up oil from my hands.