Reed Care

About Reed Care for Orchestral Instruments

Looking after your reeds properly is key to maintaining their longevity and ensuring a consistent sound. Whether you play the saxophone or clarinet, good reed care makes a difference in playability and tone quality

To keep reeds in top condition, store them in a dedicated reed case, this will help prevent warping and maintain humidity levels. Using a reed vitalizer or humidity control system can further extend reed life by keeping moisture levels stable.

Before playing, moisten the reed with clean water instead of saliva for even absorption. After playing, dry it thoroughly to prevent mould and bacteria growth. Regularly rotating between multiple reeds helps them wear evenly.

For advanced care, reed trimmers and resurfacing tools allow adjustments to refine response and durability. Proper care ensures reeds last longer and perform consistently.

FAQs

How do you take care of reeds?

Taking care of reeds involves proper storage, cleaning, and moisture control. Always dry them after playing, store them in a ventilated case, and rotate multiple reeds to extend their lifespan. Avoid handling the tip and soak them in water instead of saliva for better durability and performance.

How can I make my reed last longer?

Making your reed last longer requires careful handling, proper moisture management, and rotation. Always store reeds in a humidity-controlled case, avoid overplaying a single reed, and clean them regularly. Soaking in water rather than saliva also prevents warping and extends usability

Do you need to wet your reed?

Wetting your reed is necessary for optimal sound and response. A dry reed can be brittle and produce a harsh tone, so soaking it in water for a minute before playing helps it vibrate properly. Using water instead of saliva prevents bacteria buildup and prolongs the reed's lifespan.