Cleaning your clarinet regularly helps keep it in good playing condition. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cleaning your clarinet:
1. Disassemble the Clarinet
- Carefully take the clarinet apart, separating the mouthpiece, barrel, upper joint, lower joint, and bell.
- Be sure to handle the parts gently, especially the pads on the tone holes, as they are delicate.
2. Clean the Mouthpiece
- Remove the reed and store it safely (in a reed case).
- Use a mouthpiece brush or a soft cloth to clean the inside of the mouthpiece. Run it through the opening and around the inner surface to remove any residue.
- Wipe the outside of the mouthpiece with a soft, dry cloth.
3. Swab the Inside of the Clarinet
- Use a clarinet swab (a piece of cloth with a string that can be pulled through the instrument) to remove moisture from the inside of the clarinet.
- Pull the swab through each joint of the clarinet (starting from the bell and moving upward), allowing it to absorb any moisture that’s built up from playing. This helps prevent mold or mildew from forming.
- Be gentle, and do this after each time you play to avoid moisture buildup.
4. Clean the Key Mechanism
- Wipe down the outside of the clarinet (including the keys) with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt, oils, or moisture.
- Use a small brush (like a soft toothbrush) to gently clean around the key mechanisms and springs. Be careful not to disturb the pads or move any parts out of place.
- Avoid using any harsh chemicals or solvents on the keys.
5. Polish the Exterior
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the entire exterior of the clarinet, keeping it clean and shiny.
- If you want to give it a more polished look, you can use a special wood clarinet polish. But be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and avoid using too much, as excessive polish can damage the wood.
6. Clean the Corks
- The corks on the joints can get dry or dirty, which can make it harder to assemble the clarinet properly. Lightly rub them with a small amount of cork grease to keep them smooth and flexible.
- Wipe off any excess cork grease with a cloth.
7. Check for Moisture Build-Up
- After swabbing and cleaning, check for any residual moisture in the tone holes or pads. If you see moisture, gently dab it with a soft, dry cloth or tissue.
8. Store Properly
- Always store your clarinet in its case to protect it from damage and dust.
- Make sure the clarinet is completely dry before putting it away in the case.
Additional Tips:
- Never submerge your clarinet in water. The wood could become damaged.
- Clean your clarinet regularly, especially after each playing session.
- If your clarinet is extremely dirty or you are unsure about cleaning delicate parts, consider getting a professional maintenance check or cleaning.
That’s how you can keep your clarinet in top shape! Regular cleaning will help extend the life of your instrument and ensure it sounds great.