how to wash a trombone

Washing a trombone is not as difficult as some may think. However, it’s not as simple as throwing it in a sink either. You need to ensure that your trombone is clean first, which means wiping it down with a cloth or giving it a proper rinse.

There are different schools of thought when it comes to how to wash a trombone. Some prefer to use water, while others prefer to use soap or even dry cloth. So, in this article, we will discuss the fundamentals of washing a trombone: what you need and what you should avoid.

What You Need

As already pointed out, you will need a trombone in order to follow this guide. This instrument is actually a type of woodwind instrument, which means it has a single reed that is used to play music. Because it has one moving part (the reed), it is much simpler to clean than most other types of wind instruments.

Soap

Soap is not a necessary part of washing a trombone, however, it can help make the process quicker and easier. If you have access to a dish soap dispenser, then you can simply remove the cap and wash down your trombone. However, if yours is a glass or metal container, then you may need to use some hand sanitiser or dishwashing liquid.

Rinse

After you have washed your trombone down with soap or sanitiser, you should immediately give it a quick rinse. This will remove the excess soap residue and allow you to start over again. However, if you are using liquid soap, then make sure to wipe any excess from the rim of the container.

Avoid Washing It Too Much

Soap can be very effective in keeping your trombone clean, but too much washing can result in the wood becoming dry and chipped. Instead, you should give it a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use (this obviously depends on how experienced you are with cleaning woodwind instruments).

If you are finding the process of washing your trombone tedious, then it may be time to consider buying a commercial cleaning kit. These types of products often have a spray on one end and a cloth on the other. You can find them at home appliance stores for people who would like to do some cleaning on the go.

What Should You Avoid

Washing a trombone can be a very difficult process that some people find daunting. Because there is only one moving part (the reed), it is prone to a lot of wear and tear. This means that overuse can result in the instrument becoming unplayable. So, make sure not to overuse your trombone and if you feel like you are using it frequently, then it may be time to consider buying a new one.

Dry Cleaning

The best way to maintain a trombone is by regularly cleaning it with the proper instruments. This obviously means either wiping it down with a cloth or blowing on it. The first one is probably the simplest method, however, it is not always the most effective one. Sometimes, dry cleaning with an alcohol-based cleaner can help revive a trombone that has been misused or neglected for a long time.

Professional Cleaning

If you are looking for a more thorough clean, then you may need to consider getting a professional to clean your trombone for you. Professional cleaning can vary from person to person, but it usually involves using various types of instruments (i.e. a soft cloth, an abrasive element, etc) and some chemical cleanser (i.e. soap, alcohol, or both). The main thing is that you are comfortable with the person doing the cleaning and that you are confident in their skill.

Washing A Trombone Yourself

If you feel that you are able to thoroughly clean your trombone on your own without any help, then great! However, if you are not quite sure what all the noise is about, then you may need to consider getting some help from a professional.