How Often Should You Oil a Trumpet?

Oiling the valves of your trumpet will keep the keys from sticking.

To keep your trumpet in proper working order, cleaning and maintaining it should be part of your routine. Oiling and greasing is a big part of routine maintenance that will keep your trumpet sounding and performing its best at all times. It is important to understand how often you need to oil and grease your trumpet, as the valves, slides, water key and caps should all be cared for on a different schedule.

Valves

Your trumpet valves should be oiled a minimum of twice per week. Some players take extra precaution and oil their valves each time they play. Oiling your trumpet’s valves will keep the keys from becoming slow or sticky. The oil lubricates, cleans and fills in the air space between each valve. You should also oil your valves anytime you remove them to clean your trumpet. You do not, however, have to remove the valves each time you oil them. You can partially remove the valves by removing the top caps, pulling the piston out halfway and covering the surface in oil. Slowly lower the piston back down, turning carefully in a clockwise motion until the valve clicks back into place. As you lower the piston, the oil will naturally disperse itself around the valve.

Slides

The slides of your trumpet also need to be lubricated. It is important to use slide grease specially designed for your trumpet. Never substitute slide grease for another product, as this may cause corrosion on your trumpet. You should grease your slides at least once per month. The slides of the trumpet should be carefully removed and the old grease wiped off with a towel. A fresh coating of grease should be applied, and the trumpet should be put back together, with any residual grease wiped from the sides. Regular slide greasing will ensure that the trumpet does not become fused together or difficult to take apart for cleaning. If you find that your slides are difficult to remove, talk to a professional at your local music store. Never use tools or attempt to force the slides from your trumpet.

Water Key and Caps

Your trumpets caps and water key are often overlooked items on your trumpet, but they, too, require regular oiling and greasing so they don’t stick or become difficult to remove. Your trumpet’s water key should be oiled once a month. You should also apply a small amount of slide grease to the thread of your trumpet's caps once a month. This will ensure that the caps do not become sticky or difficult to remove.

Considerations

It is better to oil and grease your trumpet too much rather than too little. Slide grease and valve oil will not damage your trumpet if overused. It will keep your trumpet lubricated and easy to play. Neglecting your trumpet and not giving it enough grease and oil will make the instrument difficult to play and take apart for cleaning. Anytime you dismantle your trumpet, be sure to put small and delicate parts in a place where they will not become damaged or get lost.

References

• Mark Flegg Trumpet: How to Clean Your Trumpet
• Zachary Music: Care and Maintenance of Your Trumpet
• Children's Music Workshop; Valve Oil Application; 2011