Wooden clarinets stay alive thanks to the moisture we give them with our breath when blowing. In summer , with more heat, less humidity and less time of use, it can cause the wood of the instrument to age sooner than we would like, losing its qualities.

Remember that the wooden clarinet is an instrument that continues to be alive and changing over time.

The humidity level for the well-being of a clarinet should be between 40% and 50%.

Tip #1 - The clarinet in the bathroom

Always keep it disassembled in its case if you do not touch it and store it in the bathroom so that the humidity from the toilet and sink prevents the wood from drying out excessively.

Tip #2 – Water Spray

If you are not going to play it for more than 7 days, take a flusflus with water and spray the inside of the bell and the lower body of the instrument. Then put it back in its case and this will help it retain moisture. Repeat this process as many times as necessary.

Tip #3 - Humidifiers and hygrometers

There are various humidifying products that maintain the humidity of the clarinet and that are placed inside its case, such as Boveda brand humidity sachets, among many others (65% humidity sachets are recommended).

Regarding hygrometers , it is advisable to purchase a small one that we can place inside the clarinet case and tell us what percentage of humidity is inside. There are some that connect to your smartphone via app and give you information in real time.

Tip #4 – Oil it

A clarinet whose wood is not oiled loses water more quickly and also absorbs it more, so the changes in hydration of the wood will be even more abrupt. The layer of oil that the luthier applies hydrates the pores of the wood and also acts as a hydrophobic barrier due to the difference in density with water, avoiding sudden changes in humidity. You can take it to your trusted luthier or do it yourself.

If you have any other questions, write to me through the chat to your right and I will be happy to answer them for you.

Mario Mendez