Expert: Herbert Smith - 9/2/2009

Question
Hi Herbert!

I am wondering if it is acceptable to gently wipe down the lip piece with an alcohol swab? I play in a rock 'n' roll band and have recently started having trouble with my lips. Process of elimination leads me to suspect that people aren't respecting my instrument (or me!).

What would be the best way to sterilize the mouthpiece?
Thanks-
Janet

Answer
Hello Janet!

It's perfectly acceptable to wipe off the lip plate with an alcohol swab if you need/want to disinfect it.  As long as you are sure not to get alcohol on the keywork (alcohol can strip the lubricants in the mechanism and damage pads/corks/adhesives that are necessary for proper operation of the instrument), you should have no problems whatsoever.

This is actually a very common practice among flute dealers, and if you ever visit a flute fair or the NFA (National Flute Association) convention, you'll likely see a basket of alcohol swabs at each exhibitor's booth, so that you can wipe off the lip plate before testing out a flute.

On a side note, if you suspect that others have been playing about with your instrument, you might want to reconsider wherever you leave it during rehearsals/store it between them.  I always carry my flute around with me during breaks in the rehearsal, specifically because it's very vulnerable sitting on its stand if I'm not right next to it.  As soon as I'm done playing, it goes right back into the case, and the case comes away with me.  It's very hard for others to mess with your instrument if you keep a close eye on it.  Luckily our instruments are very portable, so this is a very minor inconvenience, which is well worth dealing with to ensure that your flute is not damaged by others (whether accidentally or maliciously).

I hope this is helpful.  If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Herbert