How to Care for a Silver Clarinet

Cleaning and Polishing

• 1

  Wipe off any dirt or debris from the outside of the silver clarinet with a microfiber cloth. Do not use water on the clarinet to prevent future damage or tarnish.

• 2

  Wet the corner of a microfiber cloth with a cream silver polish that is formulated for use on musical instruments. Do not use products that are intended to polish silver dishes or flatware, as these are too abrasive and will cause the clarinet's keys to stick.

• 3

  Work the silver polish onto the surface of the clarinet using overlapping circles. Clean the tops of the clarinet keys with the polish as well, being careful not to touch the cork material on the underside of the keys.

• 4

  Wipe away any excess silver polish from the surface of the clarinet with a separate microfiber cloth.

General Care

• 5

  Store the silver clarinet in its case whenever it is not in use. This will ensure that it does not suffer any accidental damage or dings.

• 6

  Avoid eating or chewing gum before you play the silver clarinet. This will cause small particulates to make their way into the body of the instrument.

• 7

  Wipe down the surface of the clarinet after each use with a dry microfiber cloth. This will remove both the fingerprints and the skin's natural oils from the surface of the clarinet.

• 8

  Avoid storing anything inside the case with the silver clarinet. This includes cleaning products and sheet music. These items will cause small scratches on the instrument's surface.