Regular cleaning is essential to keeping your clarinet sounding great and lasting for years. Daily care helps prevent moisture damage, sticky keys, and unpleasant odors while ensuring a smooth, clear tone.
At Chagrin Valley Music, we teach every clarinet student how to clean their instrument properly from the first lesson. Here’s a complete guide to caring for your clarinet at home.
🛠 What You’ll Need
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Pull-through swab (cotton or silk)
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Mouthpiece brush
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Cork grease
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Soft polishing cloth
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Reed case (for reed storage)
1️⃣ Disassemble the Clarinet
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Gently take apart your clarinet into its five pieces: mouthpiece, barrel, upper joint, lower joint, and bell.
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Handle each section carefully, avoiding pressure on the keys and rods.
2️⃣ Swab the Inside
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Thread the pull-through swab through each section, one at a time.
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Pull gently to remove all moisture.
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Repeat for every section, especially the upper and lower joints where pads are most vulnerable.
💡 Tip: Swab your clarinet after every practice or performance to prevent pad deterioration.
3️⃣ Clean the Mouthpiece
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Use a mouthpiece brush and lukewarm (not hot) water to remove residue.
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Never use hot water—it can warp the mouthpiece.
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Dry thoroughly before reassembling.
4️⃣ Care for the Reeds
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Remove the reed after each use.
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Wipe off excess moisture and store it in a reed case to keep it flat and dry.
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Replace reeds regularly—most players rotate between 2–4 reeds to extend their life.
5️⃣ Maintain the Corks
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Apply a small amount of cork grease to tenon corks as needed.
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This keeps joints fitting smoothly without forcing them together.
6️⃣ Polish the Exterior
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Wipe down the outside with a soft cloth to remove fingerprints and oils.
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Avoid chemical cleaners—these can damage the finish and pads.
🛠 Chagrin Valley Music Tip
Even with great at-home care, your clarinet will benefit from annual professional maintenance. We offer:
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Pad replacement
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Key adjustments and oiling
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Deep cleaning and sanitation
👉 Learn more about our repair services »
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