4. Waxing

Like a car, the surface of a guitar can be sealed and protected with wax. For instruments, carnauba wax has proven to be especially beneficial. Not only is carnauba the hardest natural wax, it also has the highest melting point at 83 degrees Celsius. Carnauba wax forms a thin, glossy layer that protects the instrument from moisture and negative mechanical effects. It also does a lot for your guitar from a visual perspective and helps to cover up small scratches and defects.

Info:

Carnauba wax is extracted from the carnauba palm (Copernicia cerifera Mart.). This palm grows up to approximately 15 meters tall and occurs mostly in northern Brazil. During the dry season, it develops wax flakes on its leaves to protect itself from drying up. These flakes are harvested by shaving or boiling the leaves.

Despite the fantastic characteristics of carnauba wax, you shouldn't overdo it. Carefully remove old layers of wax from the surface before applying new wax. This is best achieved with – you've guessed it! – the omnipotent lemon oil.