How and When to Clean Your Instrument
One of the most important responsibilities of being a musician is keeping your instrument clean. Proper cleaning helps maintain its appearance, playability, and sound quality, and it can significantly extend the life of your instrument. This guide outlines how and when to clean your instrument—no matter what you play—using best practices recommended by instrument manufacturers, music educators, and repair professionals.
Rule of Thumb
We are always here to help at Breaking the Barrier School of Music (BTB)! If you ever have questions or concerns about maintaining the health of your instrument, please reach out to us or ask your teacher during your next lesson. Improper cleaning can cause damage, so when in doubt, ask—we’re happy to show you the correct and safest way to care for your instrument.
String Instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass)
Cleaning an orchestral string instrument is relatively simple but very important. After every practice or performance, gently wipe down the instrument and the bow stick with a dry microfiber cloth. This removes rosin dust, sweat, and oils that can damage the varnish and affect sound quality over time.
About once a month, perform a light deeper clean by:
- Vacuuming the inside of your case (without touching the instrument)
- Carefully wiping hard-to-reach areas such as under the strings, near the fingerboard, and around the tailpiece
Important: Never use water, alcohol, or household cleaners on your string instrument. Liquids can strip varnish and damage the wood. If your strings sound dull, feel rough, or show visible wear, it may be time to replace them—your teacher can help with this or recommend professional assistance.
Guitar and Bass (Acoustic & Electric)
Guitars and basses accumulate sweat, skin oils, and dust through regular playing. To minimize buildup, wash your hands before playing whenever possible. After each use, wipe down the entire instrument—from headstock to body—with a dry microfiber cloth.
For detailed areas:
- Use a dry cotton swab or soft brush to clean around tuners, bridges, frets, and pickups
- Avoid compressed air or stiff brushes, which can force debris into sensitive areas
Never use water on electronic components of electric guitars or basses, as this can lead to corrosion or short circuits. Guitar-specific cleaning products may be used occasionally, but only if approved for your instrument’s finish. Always check with your teacher before trying new products.
Woodwind Instruments (Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Oboe, Bassoon)
Moisture control is critical for woodwind instruments. After every playing session:
- Use a weighted swab to remove moisture from the inside of the instrument
- Allow the swab to fully dry before returning it to the case
- Wipe moisture from tenons, joints, and keys with a dry cloth
For flutes, use a cleaning rod with a soft cloth to dry the inside of the headjoint and body. According to recommendations from Yamaha and instrument repair technicians, excess moisture—especially in wooden instruments—can cause cracking, warping, or pad damage.
Mouthpieces & Reeds
- Plastic or metal mouthpieces: Wash weekly in warm (never hot) water with mild dish soap
- Sanitizing sprays designed for instruments may be used after daily playing
- Reeds: Gently wipe dry after each use and store flat in a ventilated reed case to prevent mold and warping
Reeds are absorbent, so they should never be soaked or left wet for extended periods.
Brass Instruments (Trumpet, Trombone, French Horn, Tuba, etc.)
Brass instruments are more durable than wood or string instruments, but they still require regular care. After each use:
- Empty all moisture from water keys
- Wipe the exterior with a soft cloth to remove oils and fingerprints
Mouthpieces should be cleaned once a week by soaking them in warm, soapy water and brushing the inside with a mouthpiece brush, as recommended by organizations like the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians (NAPBIRT).
For players who practice frequently, a monthly deeper cleaning (sometimes called a “bath”) may be appropriate. This involves disassembling the instrument and cleaning tubing, slides, and valves. Always consult your teacher before attempting this, as improper disassembly can cause damage. Many players prefer to have deep cleanings done by a professional repair shop.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your instrument is essential—and now you know how to do it the right way! Consistent, proper care protects your investment and keeps your instrument sounding its best. When in doubt, remember our rule of thumb: ask before you act.
If you think your instrument needs cleaning or professional attention, please reach out to us, we’re always happy to help.
Sources & Further Reading
- Fender Guitar Cleaning Tips — basic daily care for guitars and basses
https://www.fender.com/articles/maintenance/get-it-right-5-dos-and-donts-for-cleaning-your-guitar - Gibson Guitar Care & Maintenance — manufacturer guidance on cleaning and conditioning
https://www.gibson.com/blogs/gibson-tv/gibsons-guide-to-guitar-setup-and-maintenance - Yamaha Wind Instrument Care Materials — official tools and tips for woodwind and brass cleaning
https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/winds/accessories/care/index.html - Yamaha Saxophone Maintenance Guide — step-by-step cleaning routine
https://www.yamaha.com/en/musical_instrument_guide/saxophone/maintenance/maintenance002.html - Brass Bell Woodwind Care Guide — comprehensive woodwind maintenance schedule
https://www.brassbellmusic.com/t-maintenance-guides-woodwinds.aspx - Dietze Music Care Tips — general cleaning and lubrication advice for band instruments
https://dietzemusic.com/top-tips-for-band-orchestra-instrument-care/
As an institution that is a beat above the rest, Breaking the Barrier School of Music provides quality music lessons in a family atmosphere to students of all ages and skillsets. For more articles like these or information on this school, visit https://btbschoolofmusic.com/
