Saxophones are beautiful instruments, but they can be tricky to clean. The method by which we make music on the saxophone, like most wind instruments, is to constantly blow air and moisture through the body. This can lead to thickening of dirt and bacteria, which can cause various problems and, in rare cases, the player's health.
ContentsWhy is it important to clean your saxophone?What you will need to clean your saxHow to clean and care for your saxophoneCleaning the interiorCleaning the saxophone mouthpieceDrying out sticky keysFinishing itGetting started on the saxophoneWhether you play your saxophone regularly or store it in place, you need to clean it properly to prevent bacteria buildup. That's why regular cleaning of the saxophone will help you and your instrument stay healthy and avoid costly repairs.
Read on as we walk you through the process of how to clean your sax to get your instrument sounding great!
The saxophone is a fragile instrument. It's complex with lots of matching keys, stems, and a longer string, and even the slightest hit or leak can have a significant impact on your ability to play. As a saxophonist, you have to take care of your instrument.
Did you know that if you take good care of it from the start, you could avoid many expensive repairs? Caring for and cleaning the saxophone is quite simple, whether you are new to it or have neglected it for too long.
First, check that you have the necessary cleaning product for your Sax. If you have a cleaning kit, it's a smart investment to save you time and labor. If not, get the necessary materials that you can find at home.
Soak up the knowledge and know-how to clean your saxophone by following these simple steps. A little elbow grease will go a long way in restoring this old friend to its former glory.
When you're done playing, remove the neck and mouthpiece from your saxophone and set them aside. Use the swab you have to absorb the moisture by passing it several times through your body. Swabbing helps dry the inside of the instrument, keeps bacteria out, and removes any buildup of particles from food or saliva.
Then holding the horn upside down, insert a flexible cotton swab into the larger opening at the base of the neck. You can also run water through the neck, but make sure the cork does not come into contact with water or it will swell and warp.
If you find fingerprints on the body of the saxophone, use the cloth or polishing pads that came with your maintenance kit to wipe them off. Be very careful of keys and rods that come into contact with your hands. The perspiration and natural oils from some saxophonists' fingers are very acidic, and if the keys are not kept clean they will quickly rust the metal plating.
Because it comes in contact with your mouth, you'll want to clean it frequently. Be sure to remove the reed and store it in a suitable reed case each time you finish playing.
Then clean the mouthpiece of the saxophone with a mouthpiece brush or any small brush to remove any residue. Run a clean, lint-free cloth through it to dry it and remove any missed particles by running cold or lukewarm water over it.
If your mouthpiece has scratches, you can use sandpaper or a nail sanding block to resin it with light marks. To smooth it, work your way to finer grits.
After each use, wipe it completely dry with a clean cloth or cotton swab. Bacteria and chemicals do not thicken because of it.
If you have time, walk around the saxophone and remove any moisture from the pads with a small pad drying cloth. You can place a sheet of fabric between the pad, and the tone hole is a good idea.
Then, gently remove the paper while holding down the button, removing sugars and buildup. You may need to repeat this step to remove all of the clogging substance. But also remember that brushing your teeth before playing is a fantastic way to avoid sticky keys.
Once you've finished cleaning every part of your saxophone, it's time to put it back together. It must be beautiful to look at, to feel and to play!
Loose screws should be tightened. Then be sure to put your cleaning swab in lukewarm water.
If you think your saxophone needs general cleaning and repair due to damage, check out the music store. Minor repairs will be made and worn pads or plugs will be replaced.
If you remember only one from this blog, do it:wipe down your saxophone after each performance. It's a simple practice that can help you save time, energy and money.
So I hope this guide helps you hold your horn longer. Start taking responsibility and start cleaning!
