✨ Care
Jaw harp care
How to clean, protect and store your jaw harp for a long working life.
Jaw harp care — cleaning and storage
Proper care helps your jaw harp last for many years while preserving its sound and responsiveness.
Essential care
After every playing session
🧼 Cleaning after playing
- Dry the jaw harp with a clean cloth
- Remove moisture from the reed
- Check that the reed is secure
- Store the instrument in a dry place
🚫 What to avoid
- Do not apply excessive pressure
- Do not drop or throw the instrument
- Keep it away from extreme temperatures
- Avoid touching the reed with your fingers
Thorough cleaning
Regular maintenance
🧽 Cleaning steps
- Rinse: Rinse gently with lukewarm water
- Clean: Use a soft toothbrush or brush
- Disinfect: Wipe with alcohol, avoiding the reed
- Dry: Allow the instrument to dry completely
- Inspect: Check every part of the instrument
Safe storage
Case
Use a protective case or cover
Place
Keep it dry and at room temperature
Protection
Protect it from impacts and moisture
Troubleshooting
Common issues
Possible causes:
- A damaged reed
- Dirt or residue
- Material wear
- Clean the instrument thoroughly
- Check that the reed is secure
- Contact the maker if the reed is damaged
Prevention:
- Dry thoroughly after playing
- Store in a dry environment
- Clean regularly
- Carefully remove light surface rust with fine abrasive paper
- Apply a suitable protective coating, but never to the reed
- Ask the maker or a metalworking specialist to assess serious damage
Long-term care
🕰️ Instrument lifespan
With proper care, a quality jaw harp can last for decades. Regular maintenance protects both its acoustic qualities and its hygiene.
Annual check
Inspect every part carefully; check that the reed is firmly attached; arrange professional maintenance if needed; replace a damaged protective case.Playing hygiene
🦷 Oral hygiene
- Clean your teeth before playing
- Rinse your mouth with water
- Do not share your instrument with other people
- Disinfect the instrument thoroughly after illness