How to Change Ukulele Strings
Updated Nov 12, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through the Amazon links on this page costs you nothing extra. Full disclosure
To change ukulele strings, loosen the old strings and remove them from the bridge and the tuning pegs, then thread the new strings through the bridge and wind them onto the pegs. Tune each string to pitch, stretch the strings gently, and retune until they hold. A new set takes a short time to settle.
Loosen and remove the old strings
Loosen one string at a time at its tuning peg until it goes slack, then unwind it from the peg and pull it free from the bridge. Changing one string at a time keeps some tension on the neck while you work. Set the old strings aside and check the bridge and the pegs for dust before you fit the new set.
Thread the new strings through the bridge
Take the new set and match each string to its place: the YOLOPLUS strings are labeled 1, 2, 3 and 4, for 1st A, 2nd E, 3rd C and 4th G. Thread each string through the bridge and secure it as your bridge requires, leaving enough slack to wind onto the peg. Check that each string sits in its own slot before you move on.
Wind the strings onto the tuning pegs
Thread the free end of each string through its tuning peg hole and wind it on evenly, keeping light tension on the string as you turn. A string winder speeds the job: the YOLOPLUS kit includes one. Wind neatly so the coils sit side by side on the peg, then trim the extra length once the string is up to pitch.
Tune, stretch and retune
Tune each string to pitch: the D'Addario EJ88C set uses standard GCEA tuning, and the D'Addario EJ99TLG set is made for Low-G tuning on a tenor. New nylon and fluorocarbon strings stretch, so pull each string gently away from the body and retune. Repeat until the tuning holds, then play the ukulele and check the tuning once more.
What you need
Martin Ukulele Strings
A fluorocarbon 4-string set for soprano or concert ukulele, with a warm, clear tone and long-lasting tuning stability.
- Material: Phosphor Bronze
- Size: soprano
YOLOPLUS+ Ukulele Strings
5 sets of nylon strings for soprano, concert and tenor ukulele, with a string winder and 10 picks.
- Sets in pack: 5
- Material: Nylon
- Size: soprano
D'Addario Ukulele Strings Fluorocarbon Tenor EJ99TLG Low-G
A fluorocarbon tenor set for Low-G tuning, with Pro-Arté Carbon trebles and a bright, modern tone.
- Size: tenor
D'Addario Ukulele Strings Nyltech Concert EJ88C
A Nyltech concert set for standard GCEA tuning, with a bright, projecting tone and comfortable playability.
- Material: Nylon
- Size: concert
These come from our ranked list Best Ukulele Strings, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
What size ukulele strings do I need?
Match the set to your ukulele size: the YOLOPLUS sets fit soprano at 21 inches, concert at 23 inches and tenor at 26 inches. The Martin set fits soprano or concert, and the D'Addario EJ99TLG fits tenor.
How do I know which string goes where?
The YOLOPLUS strings are labeled 1, 2, 3 and 4: 1st A, 2nd E, 3rd C and 4th G. Fit each string to its tuning peg in that order.
Do new ukulele strings need stretching?
Yes. New nylon and fluorocarbon strings stretch and slip out of tune at first. Tune to pitch, stretch each string gently, and retune until the tuning holds.
How often should I change ukulele strings?
Change them when they no longer hold tune, feel rough under your fingers, or look discolored.
Ranked ukulele strings lists
More how-to guides
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.