How to Clean an Alto Saxophone

Cleaning your alto saxophone properly can keep your saxophone in good condition longer. Regular cleanings also keep the sound quality of the instrument at the optimum level. If you don't clean your alto saxophone, the consequences are clear. Mold will grow on the inside and rust may eat away the metal. By following these steps at least every two weeks, you can keep your alto saxophone sounding smooth and looking good for as long as possible.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Alto saxophone Saxophone cleaning kit

1. Clean the mouthpiece of the alto saxophone. First take out the reed and ligature. Brush out the mouthpiece using the mouthpiece brush. Then rinse out the mouthpiece with lukewarm water. Dry the mouthpiece by pulling a lint-free cloth through the mouthpiece. Make sure the mouthpiece is completely dry.

2. Insert the brush attachment into the larger neck opening. Run the brush through the neck. Then use the swab end of the brush to get any smaller particles out.

3. Use a brush with a weight on the end to clean out the bell of the saxophone. Insert the weighted end in the bell, then turn the bell upside down so the weight falls out the other end. Pull the weighted end so the brush passes through the body. Repeat this process a few times.

4. Clean the valve pads. Look at each valve pad to see if you need to have any replaced due to wear and tear. Insert a piece of paper or a pad cleaner underneath the valve. Close the valve and pull the paper or cleaner out slowly.

5. Tighten the screws on the alto saxophone (don't make them too tight, or your keys won't work).

6. Grease the corks. You can skip this step if the cork is already saturated with grease.

Tips & Warnings

• After you play, let your alto saxophone dry out before closing it up in its case. That will keep moisture, mold and rust out.
• Don't leave a swab in the saxophone to soak up moisture---the moisture actually stays where it is and harms the instrument.