Flute Care Tips
A flute that is clean and well-maintained is essential for perfect flute music. If your instrument is not in good shape, you can have problems with your ability to change notes, rust, keys that are too dirty, and worse, your mouth could become infected by your mouthpiece. This is something that no self-respecting flutist would wish to happen. Here’s a quick guide to cleaning your flute.
Make sure to wash your hands
Remember that your flute is the worst enemy of its master. The flute’s worst enemy is its master’s dirty hands. It is important to wash your hands before touching the instrument. Your flute could be damaged by the oils and acids in your fingertips and palms. Wash and sanitize.
Disassemble the Flute
To clean your flute properly you will need to take it apart. This is a basic step that every beginner should be able to perform. However, it’s not difficult to learn. Hold your flute in your left hand, where the brand-name is. Next, hold the foot joint in your right hand. Then turn your body to cause it to separate. Your left hand should still hold the flute, but your right hand should twist the head joint and take out the other end. You’ve now successfully disassembled the flute.
Cleaning the Flute
Contrary to popular belief, the flute is not cleaned. Instead, you dry it. Drying the flute will remove all moisture (from your breath) from its inside. The flute’s quality will suffer if it is moist. Take a piece of cloth, preferably a J-cloth. Fold the cloth in half lengthwise. Then thread one edge through the hole in the cleaning rod. Wrap the remainder of the cloth around the rod, then wrap it down to the shaft. The cloth shouldn’t stick to the instrument so make sure it is tightly wrapped.
Next, push the rod into your flute and twist it to move it in and out. If you have played for a long time, you will need to repeat the process. Now, place the cleaning rod on the opposite side of the flute’s body.
A Few Reminders
When not in use, keep your flute in its case to preserve it. You should also make sure that nothing is damp in your flute case. Moisture can cause damage to your instrument. Greasing your flute should be left to professionals.
Regular service is a must for your flute. You should also make sure your instrument is insured if you are able. You won’t need to spend a lot of money on repairs and maintenance. If you have any questions about maintenance, don’t hesitate asking your flute teacher. Keep your flute in good condition and you will be able to produce beautiful, smooth flute music for many years. Have fun!
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