This. And I whipe the strings, well the whole uke, down with a dry, soft polishing cloth after playing. I've never had occasion to clean strings specifically. I figure if they seem to need cleaning, it's time to change them. So I don't know about rubbing alcohol, sorry.
the only strings I've ever cleaned are wound ones that tarnish/rust, and I just hit them with fine steel wool. the nylon/floro I just wipe off. doesn't seem like much sticks to them.
the only strings I've ever cleaned are wound ones that tarnish/rust, and I just hit them with fine steel wool. the nylon/floro I just wipe off. doesn't seem like much sticks to them.
If the occaision arose for me, I'd use soapy water on a damp cloth. I've boiled wound steel guitar strings in soapy water in the past ... works wonders, assuming the strings aren't actually worn, but I'd have reservations about doing that to nylon strings. Alcohol would probably be OK for any strings, but I'd not want to use it near the instrument for fear of staining the wood.
I always wash my hands before I play, and try to always wipe the instrument off with a dry microfiber cloth when I put it away. I would never even consider using rubbing alcohol on my babies.
I've heard of that, but for the little bit of extra life you'll get out of them, I don't think it's worth the time and effort. I'd rather just put on a brand new set that's going to last a while.
It never occurred to me tht strings would get dirty. My A strings gets really scratchy underneath, though. I just change them. Then everything sounds pretty again. (Actually when I changed my strings the other day was the first time I really noticed a difference. My ears must be getting better)
The only really safe solvents to use around uke finishes...unless they're polyester...are water and xylene which is often used to remove rosin build-up from fiddles. Alcohol is the solvent for shellac (French polish), and may or may not be OK with nitro lacquer. With polyester, you can use practically anything...acetone, gasoline, kerosene, lacquer thinner...yes, really. Just don't smoke while using them! Urethanes are not quite as industrial solvent proof.