special issue: looking after your drums

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in-depth guide to cleaning and storing percussion instruments

maintaining the condition and sound quality of percussion instruments requires a meticulous approach to cleaning and storage. these practices not only preserve the instruments' appearance but also their functionality and longevity. let's dive deeper into the best practices for cleaning and storing percussion instruments, ensuring they continue to perform at their best.

detailed cleaning tips

dust and dirt removal:

- frequency: regular cleaning is crucial. dusting your instruments after each use prevents buildup that can affect the instrument's sound and responsiveness.

- tools: use a microfiber cloth for dusting and cleaning. for hard-to-reach areas, such as the interior of tubular bells or the underparts of a marimba, use soft-bristled brushes.

cymbal care:

- cleaning solution: use a cleaner designed specifically for cymbals to avoid damaging their finish. diy solutions, like a mix of mild dish soap and water, can be used for light cleaning, but ensure the soap is thoroughly rinsed and the cymbal is dried immediately to prevent water spots.

- polishing: polishing cymbals should be done sparingly. over-polishing can remove the protective coating and alter the cymbal's sound. when polishing is necessary, use a product recommended by the cymbal manufacturer and apply it gently with a soft cloth.

skin-headed instruments:

- natural skins: for instruments with natural skins, like congas or bongos, avoid using water or cleaning solutions, as moisture can damage the skin. instead, use a dry cloth to wipe away dust. if necessary, a very lightly dampened cloth can be used, but the skin should be dried immediately afterward.

- maintenance: treat skins with a skin conditioner if recommended by the manufacturer. this helps keep the skin supple and prevents cracking.

proper storage techniques

temperature and humidity control:

- stable environment: keep your instruments in a room where temperature and humidity levels are stable and moderate. extreme changes can cause wood to warp and metal parts to corrode.

- humidity solutions: in areas with high humidity, use dehumidifiers to protect the instruments. conversely, in dry climates, a humidifier can help prevent wood from drying out and cracking.

instrument cases:

- protective cases: investing in quality cases for smaller instruments, like tambourines or snare drums, is vital for protection against physical damage and environmental factors. ensure cases have a soft, protective lining.

- storage racks: for larger instruments that are not typically stored in cases, like marimbas or drum kits, consider using storage racks that keep them off the ground. this protects them from moisture and makes cleaning the room easier.

covering instruments:

- dust covers: for instruments that remain set up, like drum kits or xylophones, use dust covers when they are not in use. this simple step can significantly reduce the amount of dust that settles on the instruments, making maintenance easier.

special considerations

- avoid direct sunlight: store instruments away from direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can fade finishes and, in some cases, cause materials to degrade.

- proper placement: ensure instruments are stored in a manner that prevents them from falling or being knocked over. strategic placement can help avoid accidental damage.

- checkups: even when not in regular use, periodically check on stored instruments to ensure they are not suffering from any unnoticed issues like mold growth or pest infestation.

by adhering to these detailed cleaning and storage guidelines, percussionists can significantly extend the life and performance quality of their instruments. regular maintenance not only upholds the instrument's appearance but also its sound integrity, ensuring that every strike, hit, or shake produces the desired musical effect.