Regular saxophone maintenance will keep you and your musical instrument in good health, and prevent costly repairs. The process of cleaning a saxophone is quite simple, especially the standard half-bell shaped saxophone. Purchase a saxophone cleaning kit to save you time and effort.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Cleaning the Interior
Step 1. Wipe the body of the saxophone
Most saxophone cleaning kits come with a brush or cloth with a weight at the end. Place the weighted end on the bell of the saxophone, and flip your instrument over. Bring the weighted end through the body and out at the narrow end. Pull the swab through the body of the saxophone several times.
- This wipe helps in drying the interior so that the pads don't break down, become a breeding ground for bacteria, and clean the buildup of foreign particles from food, drink, or saliva inside the instrument.
- After a few strokes, the pads will usually have a slightly greenish tint. Don't worry, this is normal and does not indicate rust or damage to the metal.
Step 2. Wipe the neck of the saxophone
Insert the flexible swab through the larger neck opening, and out through the narrow side where the cork is attached. Wipe thoroughly to remove foreign particles.
- You can also splash water through the neck. Just make sure the water doesn't hit the cork so it doesn't get bigger and deformed.
- You can soak musical instruments in vinegar or scrub them with detergent to remove any remaining deposits.
Step 3. Use a pad saver
This tool is useful for removing residual moisture on musical instruments. Make sure you use it after wiping process. Insert the pad saver through the narrow end of the instrument body. Allow the appliance to absorb moisture for a few seconds, then remove it.
Some saxophone manufacturers make similar tools such as a "bell brush" or "neck saver" for other parts of the saxophone. If you have one, you can use it in a similar way. However, this tool is not required for regular saxophone maintenance
Step 4. Check and clean the saxophone keys
Check for stickiness on the keys of the instrument, and look under the bearings for damage and wear. Use a damp cotton swab or paper towel to clean the sticky substance where the pad meets the tone. Just a little clean water is enough.
Part 2 of 3: Cleaning the Mouthpiece
Step 1. Clean the interior of the mouthpiece
the mouthpiece should be cleaned as often as possible because this part is in direct contact with the mouth. Start by removing the reed, then use a mouthpiece brush to clean any remaining dirt. You can even use a bottle brush or even a small toothbrush instead. Flush cold or warm water through the mouthpiece, then pull the lint-free cloth through the \mouthpiece to dry and remove any remaining particles that the brush missed.
You can soak the mouthpiece in an antiseptic mouthwash or detergent to help remove dirt
Step 2. Wipe the scratches with sandpaper
If you want to restore a rubber or latex mouthpiece with a light scratch, use sandpaper or a nail polishing block. Start with the coarsest grit to smooth your mouthpiece.
Step 3. Clean the reed
The warm air blown into the mouthpiece contains saliva so the humidity is ideal for the growth of bacteria and fungi. In addition, food scraps can damage your musical instrument. After each use, wipe the saxophone thoroughly with a clean towel or cotton swab. This step does not stop the production of bacteria and chemicals on the saxophone.
Step 4. Clean thoroughly as needed
Soak heavily soiled mouthpieces in water and a little detergent or malt vinegar. Reed can be soaked briefly in an antibacterial liquid such as alcohol, mouthwash, or mild hydrogen peroxide. Allow \reed to dry before reuse.
Part 3 of 3: Finishing the Cleanup
Step 1. Polish the saxophone body
You can use a brass lacquer polishing cloth. If you want, add a little bit of furniture wax spray. Do not use washcloths, kitchen towels, and cleaning products that are not specifically made for caring for brass instruments.
Step 2. Tighten the loose screws
You can tighten loose screws, but be careful not to twist too hard.
Step 3. Clean your cleaner
The special wiper, pad saver, and buzzer brush can be washed manually using a small amount of soap. If regularly cared for, your musical instrument can last for years.
Step 4. Reassemble your saxophone
Musical instruments must look, feel, and sound beautiful! When in doubt, contact a professional.
Tips
- Wipe the saxophone every time you play! Saxophones that are stored wet are a breeding ground for mold, rust, and dirt deposits.
- The saxophone is a fragile musical instrument! Remember to always be careful and don't force anything. Never use materials that can corrode musical instruments.
- It's a good idea to have two swabs for the saxophone: One for the neck, and one for the body.
Warning
- Do not grease, remove rust, replace bearings, or use scratch remover to coat the saxophone. It's best to have this done professionally. If your musical instrument is rented, usually this service is free of charge.
- Never apply key oil to a saxophone or any woodwind instrument. If the saxophone keys need to be oiled, it's best to use the services of a professional.
