To keep your clarinet in the best condition, please follow these suggestions:

Assembly

* Always consult your teacher if you are not sure how to put together your instrument.
* NEVER force the parts of your instrument together.
* Clarinets play the best when a moist reed is used. Get into the habit of soaking the thin end of the reed in your mouth while you are assembling your clarinet.
* When assembling the clarinet you may need to apply a small amount of cork grease on each of the corked joints. When properly used, cork grease should allow you to assemble your clarinet without using excessive force.
* Always make sure that you have extra reeds, cleaning swabs and cork grease.


Maintenance

* Use cork grease as needed. Too little will cause the cork to crack.
* Do not leave the reed attached to the mouthpiece. This will shorten the life of the reed and cause it to collect germs.
* Wipe off your fingerprints from the keys after every use. A clean, non-treated cotton cloth will work the best. NEVER clean your clarinet with water.
* Clean out the moisture from your instrument with an absorbent cotton drop swab after every use. Clean the inside of all sections of the clarinet. Removing the moisture from your clarinet before putting it away each time will prolong the life of the pads.
* Always store your instrument in its case with the lid closed when not in use. This will lower the risk of damage.
* Do not put anything (including sheet music) inside the case with your instrument that does not belong. Closing the case with extra contents can cause damage to the delicate keys. Also, make sure that all the latches are securely closed before transporting your instrument.
* Do not leave your clarinet in the car or in direct sunlight. This could cause the instrument to crack.