Caring for Your Flute
Looking after your flute is super important if you want it to stay in great shape and avoid expensive repairs down the road. A little bit of care goes a long way!
Before You Play
- Wash your hands
Washing your hands helps slow down tarnishing and stops dirt, sweat, or grease from getting into the key mechanisms, which can cause them to jam or rust.
- Rinse your mouth
It might sound a bit extra, but rinsing your mouth before playing helps keep food or sugary bits from getting into the flute. These can stick to the pads and cause them to swell or even rip over time.
After You Play
- Dry out the inside
When you’re done playing, your flute will probably have some moisture inside. Use a cleaning rod and a soft gauze cloth to gently dry it out. This helps keep the pads from getting soggy and ensures they keep sealing properly.
- Wipe down the outside
Give the outside a quick wipe with a microfiber or silver polishing cloth. This removes any sweat or oils from your hands and keeps the flute shiny while protecting the mechanism from damage.
- Put it back in its case
When you're finished, pop your flute back in its case. This helps protect it from bumps, knocks, and dust—and also slows down tarnishing from exposure to air.