How to Clean the Dry Spit off of Your Harmonica
Cleaning a harmonica is an important aspect of the overall care and maintenance of the instrument. While there isn't an exact time table for how often you should clean your harmonica, there are a couple of methods. Check the harmonica for specific details including what type of harmonica is its and whether it has a plastic, metal or wooden comb before cleaning it. Clean the harmonica by rinsing it when it's assembled or disassemble it for a more thorough cleaning.
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Things You'll Need
- Mild soap
- Soft, lint-free cloth
- Screwdriver
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Cotton swabs
Instructions
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1
Look at the harmonica. If the comb of the harmonica is made of plastic, run it under a stream of lukewarm water. Hit the harmonica on the palm of your hand with the mouthpiece facing down to get the excess water out. Play a few chords to further dry the harmonica.
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2
Disassemble the harmonica if it needs a thorough cleaning or if the comb is made out of wood or metal. Remove the screws according to the manufacturer's directions.
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3
Scrub a wooden comb with a dry toothbrush. Use water and the toothbrush to scrub a comb made from metal or plastic. Let the plastic comb air dry and thoroughly wipe down with a dry, lint-free cloth.
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4
Wash the reed plates by rubbing a bit of gentle soap in your hands. Get the plates wet with some lukewarm water and rub them with your soapy hands. Rinse the soap completely from the plates and dry with a lint-free cloth.
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5
Apply a hydrogen peroxide soaked cotton swab to areas that may contain dried spit. Focus on the outer plates, reed plates and the comb that touch your mouth. Clean any other areas that may be dirty. If the harmonica has a wooden comb, do not attempt to clean it with the hydrogen peroxide.
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6
Let the harmonica completely dry and reassemble it.
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Tips & Warnings
Rinse out your mouth with water before playing the harmonica to keep it cleaner.
Do not rinse or soak a Chromatic harmonica. This will ruin it beyond repair.
Never eat while playing the harmonica.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/liquidlibrary/Getty Images
