Can I Use Water Instead of Valve Oil on My Trumpet?

Owning a trumpet requires a lot of dedication to keep it working and sounding well. Knowing what to use and when is an important part of keeping your trumpet in good shape.

Cleaning

Giving a warm water bath to a trumpet is the recommended way to clean it. Cleaning both the body of the trumpet and the valves is an easy process, but cleaning the instrument with soapy water does not replace using valve oil.

Friction

Oil is used on valves to lubricate the piston. As the valve is depressed for each note, the metal begins to rub, causing friction. This rubbing can make the valve stick or even damage it. Water can not lubricate valves like oil.

Oiling the Valves

A trumpet valve should be oiled whenever the valve begins to stick. To do so, unscrew the valve top and gently pull out the valve. Oil the piece on the top, rotating the piston. Allow excess oil to drip off before reinserting it into the trumpet.

Specialty Oil

Only use oil that is formulated for trumpet valves. Other oils, like motor oil or cooking oil, can corrode the instrument.

Warning

Valves must be lubricated with oil to keep them in good playing condition. Never substitute water for valve oil for long term use.

References

• Trumpet Cleaning

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish