How to Do Basic Maintenance on Your Harmonica

When used frequently, even the best harmonica will eventually deteriorate beyond repair. But you can prolong your harmonica's life span by performing some routine maintenance.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Chromatic Harmonica
• Harmonicas
• Cotton Cloth

General Maintenance

1. Put your harmonica back in its case whenever you are finished playing. This will protect it from getting bent, crushed or clogged up.
2. Rinse your mouth with water before playing.
3. Be aware that "bending" the notes - though desirable, especially when playing blues - may literally bend the reeds out of shape.
4. Refrain from soaking your harmonica to improve its sound. Wooden-comb harmonicas swell and quickly deteriorate. Do not cut off a swollen mouthpiece. Plastic combs are not enhanced at all by soaking.
5. Keep your instrument out of excessive heat and humidity.

Cleaning

6. Tap the harmonica vigorously against the palm of your hand before and after playing.
7. Run tap water through the harmonica to dissolve saliva and food deposits.
8. Shake out the excess water, then tap the harmonica against your hand.
9. Hold your head in an upright position when playing, which will keep excess saliva from clogging up your instrument.
10. Play with a "dry" mouth.
11. Use a soft cotton cloth to wipe the harmonica.

Tips & Warnings

• Before buying a harmonica, use the dealer's testing device. Check for possible cracks and bent covers. Due to health laws, harmonicas cannot be returned for a refund after being used.
• Don't share your harmonica; it could be dangerous to your health.