How to Clean a Trumpet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Keeping your trumpet clean is essential for maintaining its sound quality, longevity, and playability. Regular cleaning prevents the build-up of dirt, grime, and bacteria, ensuring the instrument functions smoothly. This guide outlines the best practices for cleaning a trumpet, including routine maintenance and deep cleaning.

Why Cleaning Your Trumpet Is Important

A trumpet collects moisture, dust, and oils from your hands and breath every time you play. Over time, this can lead to:

• Poor response and tone due to blockages in the tubing

• Sticky or sluggish valves and slides

• Corrosion and damage to the instrument

• The growth of bacteria and mould

Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues, keeping your trumpet in top condition.

Routine Maintenance: Daily or Weekly Care

1. Wiping Down the Exterior

After each playing session, use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the trumpet. This removes fingerprints, sweat, and dust, preventing tarnish and corrosion. If you have a silver-plated trumpet, you may also use a silver polishing cloth to maintain its shine.

2. Emptying the Water Key

Moisture accumulates inside the trumpet while playing. Always press the water key (spit valve) and blow gently through the leadpipe to remove any excess moisture. This prevents build-up and potential blockages.

3. Oiling the Valves

(see oiling valve post for more information)

Trumpet valves should be oiled regularly to ensure smooth movement. To oil the valves:

1. Unscrew the top valve cap and carefully remove the valve.

2. Apply a few drops of valve oil to the valve surface (avoiding the holes).

3. Reinsert the valve, making sure it aligns correctly with the casing.

4. Tighten the cap and test the valve’s movement.

This should be done every few days or whenever the valves feel sluggish.

4. Greasing the Slides

The tuning and valve slides should be checked weekly. If they start to feel stiff, apply a small amount of slide grease to keep them moving freely. Avoid using too much, as this can attract dirt.

Deep Cleaning: Termly Full Clean

Once a term, a deep clean will help remove any dirt or debris inside the instrument.

What You’ll Need:

• A sink or large tub filled with lukewarm (not hot) water

• Mild dish soap (washing up liquid)

• A trumpet cleaning snake (flexible brush) Buy now

• A valve casing brush Buy now

• A mouthpiece brush. Buy now

• A lint-free cloth or paper towels

• Valve oil and slide grease

  
  
  
  

  Blue Juice oil

• Buy now

  
  

Ultra glide tuning slide grease

• Buy now

  
  
  
  

  A complete trumpet/cornet care kit. This contains everything you will need.

• Buy now

  
  

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

1. Disassemble the Trumpet

Remove all the slides and valves. Keep them organised to ensure they are reinserted correctly later.

2. Soak the Parts

Place the trumpet body and slides in lukewarm, soapy water for about 10–15 minutes. Avoid hot water, as it can damage lacquered finishes. The valves should NOT be soaked—clean them separately.

3. Clean the Tubing

Use a flexible snake brush to gently scrub the inside of the leadpipe and tubing. This removes built-up debris and old valve oil. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

4. Clean the Valves

Use a valve casing brush to clean the inside of each valve casing. For the valves themselves, wipe them with a damp cloth, avoiding the felt pads. Do not submerge the valves in water.

5. Clean the Mouthpiece

Use a mouthpiece brush to scrub inside the mouthpiece, ensuring no residue is left.

6. Rinse and Dry

Rinse all parts with clean, lukewarm water and dry them with a soft cloth or paper towels. Let the trumpet air dry completely before reassembling.

7. Lubricate and Reassemble

• Apply slide grease to the tuning slides before reinserting them.

• Oil the valves and carefully place them back in their casings. Ensure each valve is in the correct position.

Additional Tips for Trumpet Care

1. Avoid Eating or Drinking Before Playing

Food particles and sugary drinks can cause build-up inside the trumpet, leading to sticky valves and slides.

2. Store Your Trumpet Properly

When not in use, keep the trumpet in its case to protect it from dust and accidental damage. Avoid storing it in extreme temperatures or humid conditions.

3. Check for Dents and Damage

Inspect your trumpet regularly for dents or stuck slides. If you notice any serious issues, take it to a professional repair technician.

4. Polish the Finish

For lacquered trumpets, use a soft cloth to maintain the finish. Silver trumpets may require occasional polishing with a silver polish cloth.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning and maintenance will keep your trumpet in excellent condition, ensuring smooth performance and a long lifespan. By following these steps, you can prevent common issues such as stuck valves, corroded slides, and diminished sound quality. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, caring for your instrument properly will enhance your playing experience and keep your trumpet sounding its best.