Clarinet Care and Maintenance Guide

Proper care and maintenance are essential to keep your clarinet playing well, sounding its best, and lasting for many years. Whether your clarinet is made from ABS resin or wood, following a few simple routines will help prevent damage, improve performance, and reduce the need for repairs.

Daily Care After Playing

• Swab the clarinet: After every practice or performance, gently swab the inside of each joint to remove moisture. Excess moisture can damage pads and, on wooden clarinets, cause cracking.
• Dry the mouthpiece: Remove the reed and dry the mouthpiece separately using a clean cloth or mouthpiece swab.
• Wipe the keys: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove fingerprints and moisture from the keywork.
• Allow the clarinet to air: Leave the case open for a short time before closing it to allow any remaining moisture to evaporate.

Reed Care

• Remove the reed from the mouthpiece after playing.
• Rinse the reed with clean water and gently dry it.
• Store reeds flat in a reed case to prevent warping.
• Rotate between several reeds to extend their lifespan and maintain consistent response.

Assembling and Handling

• Apply a small amount of cork grease to cork joints as needed.
• Always assemble the clarinet by holding the joints, not the keys.
• Twist joints gently rather than pushing straight together.
• When setting the clarinet down, place it in its case or on a stable clarinet stand.

Cleaning the Mouthpiece

• Wash the mouthpiece regularly with lukewarm (not hot) water.
• Use mild soap and a mouthpiece brush if needed.
• Never use boiling water, as this can warp the mouthpiece.
• Occasionally use a mouthpiece cleaning solution to reduce bacteria build-up.

Wooden vs Resin Clarinet Care

Wooden Clarinets

• Avoid sudden temperature and humidity changes.
• Warm the instrument gradually before playing.
• Do not play for long periods at first if the clarinet is new or recently serviced.
• Use a humidifier or humidity-controlled case if the air is very dry.

Resin (Plastic) Clarinets

• Resin clarinets are more resistant to weather changes but still require drying after use.
• Clean regularly to prevent moisture damage to pads.
• Avoid leaving the instrument in direct sunlight or hot cars.

Key and Pad Care

• Do not press keys unnecessarily when the clarinet is not being played.
• Use pad paper to remove moisture from pads if they feel sticky.
• Never place objects inside the instrument other than a proper swab.
• If keys feel loose or pads leak, consult a qualified technician.

Storage and Transport

• Always store the clarinet in its case when not in use.
• Ensure the clarinet is dry before closing the case.
• Do not store heavy items on top of the case.
• During cold weather, allow the instrument to reach room temperature before playing.

Regular Servicing

• Have your clarinet checked annually by a professional repairer.
• Students and heavily used instruments may need more frequent servicing.
• Regular maintenance helps prevent costly repairs and keeps the instrument playing comfortably.

Summary

With consistent daily care, careful handling, and regular professional servicing, your clarinet will remain reliable, responsive, and enjoyable to play. Good maintenance not only protects your instrument but also supports better tone, tuning, and long-term musical progress.