It is important to carefully consider where your piano is located.

A piano does not like to be too hot or too cold therefore a 'lived in' room is preferable.

Central heating dries the atmosphere and draws moisture from the wooden components of the piano. Changes in humidity, e.g. when heating is turned off at night, can cause the wood to alternately shrink and expand leading to tuning instability.

Also, consider the position of your piano within a room. It is best to avoid direct sunlight, a situation close to a window, near a radiator or other heat source, or against an interior wall that has a radiator on the other side. These locations, with constant excessive or fluctuating heat, can increase the problems with relative humidity and, as well as affecting tuning stability, could lead to more major damage such as squeaks and rattles in the 'action', loose tuning pins or splits in the soundboard.

If you have concerns that your piano is in an unsuitable environment, the presence of a humidifier or de-humidifier, depending on the circumstances may help to counteract this. I am happy to give any advice.

Your piano should be treated as a valuable piece of furniture. Use a soft dry cloth to dust the case but it is best to avoid spray polish. The keys can be carefully wiped clean with a slightly damp cloth. However, do not attempt to clean the inside of the piano which should only be attempted by a qualified piano technician.

Also, avoid placing vases of flowers, pot plants and drinks on it because a liquid spillage could cause serious damage leading to an expensive repair.

I am always pleased to give any advice on the care of your piano, either by telephone or during the course of a visit.