From hammond.b3@verizon.net Sun Jun 05 16:47:23 2011
Subject:Re: Cleaning tips for keys at a gig

I have never had a problem with baby powder. I don't put it on the keys. I put it on my hands, shake the excess off and it's fine. Used on all types of synths, pianos, clones etc. for years and never had contact issues.
As for Windex, it will scratch chrome and for that reason I never use it on anything plastic. EVER. There is silicon or something in it that will scratch surfaces.
When in question don't do it.
I have been told by many people over the years that the safest bet is a lightly dampened cloth. period.
You can't go wrong that way. I've never had anything on my keys that water wouldn't take off. If you have something worse than a sweat stain or dirt then you have a problem that not much will solve.
I've heard the Hammond guys say they use jewelers rouge on keys for stains that simply won't come out. If I get to that point I'm replacing the key.
I have used a product I on my motorcycles called Harley glaze. It is manufactured by HD and will take nasty residue off of anything including plastic and metal with no scratching. It's used primarily to take scratches out of paint.
I 've used it for years on paint, plastic windshields etc and never a hint of a scratch.
There is also a 3M product that is used to take scratches out of paint. I've seen it perform miracles on badly scratched paint. BUT, I'd still not use it on a key as enough use will ultimately do damage.
Windex will ultimately wear down the surface then you have a dull spot in your keys.
Grand piano manufacturers specifically say nothing but water in piano keys.
When in doubt-water ONLY.
C