How to Clean a Clarinet Case
Proper clarinet maintenance is as important as playing the instrument for most musicians. A clean clarinet case can make all the difference in terms of your clarinet's longevity. You can prevent scratches and unpleasant odors by keeping your case clean. You might also save money on costly future repairs if you regularly and properly maintain your instrument and its case.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Vacuum cleaner
- Vinegar
- Clean rags
- Vanilla extract (optional)
- Leather or vinyl polish
Instructions
-
-
1
Remove the clarinet from its case and put it in a safe place.
-
2
Open the case. Use the upholstery attachment that comes with your vacuum cleaner to suck out any dirt or debris on the interior portion of your case.
-
-
3
Pour two cups of warm water into a bucket and then add a cup of white vinegar to it.
-
4
Dip a clean rag into the vinegar solution and wring it out slightly. Take the rag and wipe out the interior portion of your case. The solution should not discolor any of the fabric and will aid in removing any unpleasant odors. Its own distinct odor will quickly disperse. Repeat this step at least twice to clean the inside part of your case thoroughly.
-
5
Leave the case in an open position and let it dry thoroughly.
-
6
Remove stubborn odors by dipping a paper towel in vanilla extract. Put the saturated paper towel into a small bowl and place it in your case. Close the lid and let it sit for a day.
-
7
Use a new clean rag and dip it in your vinegar solution. Wring it out slightly and wipe down the exterior part of your case. Do this at least twice to remove any dirt and grime that tends to get caught in the grooves of textured cases.
-
8
Let the case dry overnight. Use leather polish to protect a leather clarinet case. For a vinyl case, apply specially-formulated polish that is safe to use on vinyl products.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit clarinet player image by pixelcarpenter from Fotolia.com
