How to Clean and Maintain Trumpet Valves

The valves of a trumpet are the most intricate parts of the instrument. They require careful handling and regular maintenance. Gentle cleaning, lubrication and well oiled valves will add to your instrument's life and enhance the sound you create with it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper towel
• Cup
• Warm water
• Dish soap
• Cleaning rod
• Cloth
• Instrument oil

1. Disassemble the valves by unscrewing the nuts. Slowly pull each valve out about half way. Notice the number stamped on each one. Note which way the number faces so that each valve is returned in the same direction.

2. Remove all traces of old oil from the valves and the valve casing. Wipe the valves with a paper towel. Soak in a cup full of warm soapy water if necessary. Insert the cleaning rod wrapped with a cloth into the valve casing. Swab the casing with the rod and cloth to remove any dirt.

3. Lubricate the valves. Squirt the sides of each valve with a generous amount of instrument oil.

4. Replace the valves back into the trumpet. Return each numbered valve back into the correct casing in the proper direction and click into place. Blow a quick breath of warm air into the trumpet while putting the valves in place.

5. Test the working condition of the trumpet. Now that the valves are clean, play a quick chord to make sure the pieces were reassemble correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• Let any valves that were cleaned in soapy water completely air dry on a towel before replacing back in to the trumpet.
• Avoid using hot water to clean the valves. Hot water can remove or damage the finish.