❓Why do my ukulele strings keep going out of tune?
✅ Because they’re probably overdue for a change.
Old strings stretch and lose tension over time, making it hard to stay in tune—especially in our Aussie climate. A fresh set can instantly restore stability and sparkle.
❓Do I really need special tools to change my strings?
✅ Not at all—you likely have most of them at home!
You need only a soft towel, a tuner, scissors, and a touch of ChapStick.
❓How often should I change my ukulele strings?
✅ Every 3–6 months is ideal, depending on how much you play.
If your uke sounds dull, feels harder to play, or won’t stay in tune, it's probably time. Regular changes keep your tone fresh and your fingers happy.
❓What’s the biggest mistake people make when changing strings?
✅ Cutting them under tension!
Snapping strings can sting—literally. Always loosen first, remove gently, and take it one string at a time to protect your uke and your hands.
With this guide, you’ll change your strings confidently, and no fancy gear is required.
Keep your ukulele sounding bright, beautiful, and in tune!
If your ukulele has started sounding dull or isn’t staying in tune, it might be time for new strings. Whether you're a seasoned strummer or just starting your musical journey, changing your ukulele strings is an essential skill that’s easier than it seems.
At Ukulele Trading Co Australia, we’re passionate about helping adults over 50 discover the joy of playing the ukulele—so here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to keeping your uke in tip-top shape.
🎵 Why Should You Change Your Strings?
Over time, ukulele strings stretch, wear down, and lose their sparkle. Replacing them:
✔️ Refreshes your sound with a brighter, cleaner tone
✔️ Helps you stay in tune more reliably
✔️ Improves playability and responsiveness
✔️ Gives you the chance to try new string materials or tunings
We recommend changing your strings every 3–6 months, depending on how often you play.
🧰 What You’ll Need
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A fresh set of ukulele strings
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A soft towel or cloth to lay your uke on
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A tuner
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Scissors or string cutters
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Fine sandpaper
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Optional: ChapStick or nut lubricant, lemon oil or raw linseed oil
🔄 Step-by-Step: How to Change Your Ukulele Strings
- Remove One String at a Time
- Lay your ukulele down on a soft, protected surface.
Loosen one string by turning the tuning peg until all tension is gone.
Then, unwind the string from the tuner and untie it from the bridge.
❗Avoid cutting under tension—it can snap back at you and sting!
👉 Tip: Work on one string at a time to keep neck tension balanced.
2. Prep & Clean Your Ukulele
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Nut slots: Use a small piece of fine sandpaper folded in half to gently clean out dust or grime.
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Lubricate the nut: Apply a touch of ChapStick or nut lubricant to keep new strings from sticking.
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Bridge saddle: Check for any grooves or burrs—smooth them out with sandpaper if needed.
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Fretboard: Wipe clean, then apply a tiny bit of lemon oil or raw linseed oil to hydrate the wood (1 drop per fret space is plenty).
3. Tie the Strings at the Bridge
Most ukuleles use a tie-bar bridge:
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Thread the string through the hole in the bridge.
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Loop it back toward the fingerboard and pass it through that loop 2–3 times.
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Pull it tight—this knot holds it securely in place.
4. Wind the Strings onto the Tuning Pegs
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Turn the tuning peg hole to about 90° to the string direction.
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Thread the string through the hole, leaving a bit of slack.
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Wrap the excess string toward the center of the headstock.
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Create a locking loop by wrapping the string under itself once.
🔄 Direction matters! -
G & C Strings (left side): Wrap counterclockwise
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E & A Strings (right side): Wrap clockwise
✅ When done right, the string should exit the bottom of the tuner post—this helps get the right break angle and avoids buzzing.
5. Tune Up—Slowly
Delicate strings (especially Aquila Reds or octave strings on 6- and 8-string ukes) should be tensioned gradually:
🎵 Bring the string two notes below pitch
🎵 Let it rest for a few hours (or up to 24 for high-C strings)
🎵 Slowly bring it up to pitch over time
✅ This helps avoid breakage and extends string life.
6. Clip & Stretch
Once you're satisfied with your knots and windings:
✂️ Trim the excess string at the tuning posts
🔁 Gently stretch each string by pulling it away from the fretboard, then retune
🗓️ Expect the strings to take up to a week to settle and hold tuning
🎶 You’re All Set!
Congrats—you’ve just given your ukulele a fresh start! A new set of strings can make a world of difference in how your uke feels and sounds.
🎵 Ready to Start Your Ukulele Journey?
At Ukulele Trading Co Australia, we specialize in helping people discover the joy of music through the ukulele. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your skills, we’ve got everything you need:
🎸 Handpicked, high-quality ukuleles – chosen for tone, comfort, and playability
🎵 In-person ukulele groups – connect with others and enjoy the fun of playing together
📚 Over 1,000 online lessons – so you can learn anytime, anywhere, at your own pace
🌐 Visit our website: Ukulele Trading Co Australia
🐶 Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for updates, tips, and a peek behind the scenes with our lovable labradors, Penny & Daphne!
📸 @ukuleletradingcoaustralia
📧 Email: chrisfromukuleletrading@gmail.com
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