There are several things that you can do to remove the excess steel wool. First I would remove the strings from the instrument as they become magnetized and attract the steel wool filings. To thoroughly clean the pickup I would remove the magnet. Remember how it was taken out!! You can use a fine brush attached to the vacuum cleaner and carefully remove the debris. Use a slightly damp rag to remove the excess off the bar magnet. The damp rag will help hold the steel wool filings. Make sure the magnet is dry and insert it back into the pickup.

You can also use tape and dab the bobbin to remove the steel wool. If you try to brush it off, it will only end up somewhere else and get all over. I’ve used a fine toothbrush with an old ceramic bar magnet glued to the top. When gently brushing the steel wool will be attracted by the stronger magnet. I only do this with the magnet removed from the pickup first because the external magnet (glued to the tooth brush) can alter the magnetic field within your pickup.

If you vacuum make sure you don’t suck any screws or part up. I also put an old nylon stocking over the nozzle of the vacuum to collect any parts that may be sucked up when cleaning up. I usually insert it behind the brush attachment. It works pretty good and it’s great for finding those lost screws in carpet!