A clean mouthpiece isn’t just good hygiene, it’s essential for tone quality and long-term care of your instrument. Here are some top tips for keeping your gear in great shape.
Brass Mouthpieces
Over time, brass mouthpieces can accumulate grime and oxidation. Keep yours clean and performance-ready with these tips.
Top Tips:
- Soak weekly in lukewarm, soapy water for a few minutes. This helps loosen debris and sanitize without damaging the finish.
- Use a brass mouthpiece brush to gently scrub the inside.
- Dry your mouthpiece completely with a soft cloth to prevent tarnish and mineral deposits.
- Use a non-abrasive polishing cloth to restore shine and remove light tarnish.
- Store your mouthpiece in a padded pouch to prevent dents and scratches.
Woodwind Mouthpieces
Woodwind players: your mouthpiece is your voice! Bacteria, saliva, and reed residue build up quickly, but routine cleaning keeps your tone pure.
Top Tips:
- Clean your mouthpiece every 1–2 weeks using cool or room temperature water and mild soap. Avoid soaking corks on clarinet mouthpieces.
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to gently remove buildup, especially around the tip and over the patch.
- Avoid HOT WATER and alcohol-based cleaners like Santi Mist, they can discolor hard rubber over time.
- After each use, run a mouthpiece swab through the inside to prevent buildup.
- Store your mouthpiece away from direct sunlight and heat, which can cause fading and oxidation.
Pro Tip from Dr. Melissa Morales:
If you find NONE of your reeds are working with your mouthpiece anymore, it may mean your mouthpiece is warped and merits replacement. We're here to help you find the perfect fit. Make an appointment with one of our experts today to find the best tool for the job.