Maintenance and care of a wooden clarinet is integral to keeping the instrument in proper working order. Wooden clarinets are especially susceptible to needing repairs if they are not cared for and cleaned regularly. These tips will help keep your clarinet working for years to come.

Cleaning

Wooden clarinets should be cleaned thoroughly after each use. After you disassemble your clarinet, clean each joint from bottom to top with a cotton handkerchief or silk swab. Make sure the swab is flat and not knotted when you pull it through each joint. If the swab gets stuck while cleaning, take the clarinet to a repair shop to have it removed. Rub the mouthpiece down with the swab, as well, but do not pull it through the mouthpiece because it can affect the inside. Clean the mouthpiece weekly by running tepid water through it to remove particles that build up from use. Dry the clarinet with pad paper, which can be purchased at a music store. Effectively drying your clarinet will keep it from cracking. Make sure to dust the keys with a soft brush on a regular basis to remove dirt and grime. Apply a small drop of key oil with a needle oiler where the keys meet the posts. Performing this procedure on a monthly basis will ensure they remain in proper working order.

Storage

Storage is a key component to maintaining a clarinet. The clarinet should be placed properly into a hard case to ensure the instrument is stored safely. Never force the case shut, which could result in damaging, cracking or breaking the clarinet. Remove the reed from the mouthpiece before placing the mouthpiece in the case with the ligature in place. Place a plastic mouthpiece cap over both. The reed should be stored in a hard case, either plastic or glass, that will keep the reed dry and flat. When you are not using your clarinet it should be properly stored in its case. Do not leave the clarinet on a music stand, do not place it standing up on the ground or laying on its side on any surface. Wooden clarinets are also quite susceptible to temperature and moisture. Never leave your clarinet in extreme temperatures or out in direct sunlight. Make sure to let your clarinet warm up before playing it; the wood should reach room temperature before use. You can also help to combat dryness and cracking by placing fresh orange peels in the case with your clarinet. This will provide natural oils that will keep your instrument from cracking and becoming brittle under dry conditions.

Oiling

Oiling is a practice that can be performed based on the condition of your clarinet. Some clarinets are more prone to dryness than others; also, if you live in a very dry climate your clarinet will be more susceptible to cracking. Use bore oil from a music store because it is specially formulated for instruments and will not become rancid. Place a few drops of the oil on a swab and pull it through the instrument. Perform this process regularly during the winter months, approximately every two weeks, and weekly if you live in a consistently dry climate.

Source:

Woodwind: Care and Maintenance

Keynotes Magazine: Maintenance Habits

More Information:

Ridenour Clarinet Products: Clarinet Wood Care

Active Musician: Wood Clarinet Maintenance Kit