How to Maintain Your Saxophone

If you play the saxophone, you must know how to properly maintain your instrument. The saxophone is no different than any other frequently used appliance. To ensure years of enjoyment, learn the basics of saxophone cleaning and care.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Begin with key care. When you take your saxophone out of the case, grab it by the bell of the instrument and not the keys. Wipe underneath the keys on the outside of the saxophone to keep the area dry.
2. Invest in a saxophone swab. This device has a weight on a cord that you insert in one end of the instrument and pull through. A cotton cloth on the other side of the cord dries the inside of the sax.
3. Clean the reed after each use. During disassembly, remove the reed from the mouthpiece and wipe off the excess moisture. Store the reed in a reed case.
4. Remove and clean the mouthpiece. First rinse it with a disinfecting mouthwash. Wipe it down and store it with both the ligature and the cap in place.
5. Inspect the cork. Before assembling your saxophone, check the cork for any chips or excessive wear. If it looks acceptable, apply cork grease to make putting the mouthpiece on it easier.
6. Remember to care for the key pads. Underneath the keys are black pads that must stay as dry as possible. Don't clean them with water. Check them for tears or signs of wear and replace them if necessary.
7. Look for loose pivots or screws. Check them monthly and take your saxophone to a repair shop for adjustments if they're loose.