How to Clean Your Clarinet or Saxophone Mouthpiece (Without Ruining It)

The mouthpiece is where sound begins — and where most of the grime hides. While it might look clean at first glance, inside it’s a perfect trap for moisture, bacteria, sugar residue, and old reed particles. Over time, that buildup can affect tone, playability, and even your health.

Dirty Saxophone Mouthpiece that Needs Cleaning

🧽 How Often to Clean

For most players, once a week is plenty. If you play outside, use your horn for marching band, or drink soda or juice before rehearsals, you may need to clean it more often.

And if you’ve been sick recently, always give your mouthpiece a full clean before playing again.

🛠️ How to Clean It — The Safe Way

1. Fill a cup or bowl with warm water (not hot!) and add a drop of mild dish soap.

2. Gently scrub the inside and tip rails with a mouthpiece brush or soft toothbrush.

3. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth.

This method works for plastic, metal and hard rubber mouthpieces.

⚠️ What NOT to Do

• Never boil your mouthpiece. (too hot water temperature can discolor rubber mouthpieces)

• Don’t use toothpaste — it scratches.

• Avoid scrubbing with steel wool or other abrasives.

• Don’t forget to clean your ligature and cap — they collect residue too.

• Never store your reed on the mouthpiece when not playing

  
  

🎯 Why It Matters

A dirty mouthpiece can harbor bacteria, cause reeds to stick poorly, and even subtly change your sound. Cleaning it regularly helps:

• Extend its lifespan

• Improve tone and response

• Keep your playing gear feeling fresh and safe

  
  

Add mouthpiece cleaning to your weekly music routine. It only takes five minutes, and your tone (and bandmates) will thank you!

Players brand woodwind mouthpiece brush specifically sized for clarinet & saxophone mouthpieces