How do I keep my flute in top condition?

The pads under the keys are vulnerable to moisture and dirt. Protect them by:

• Not leaving any moisture or dirt on the keys – Sugar-containing food (drinks or snacks) is disastrous for pads! Ensure your mouth and hands are clean.
• Not exerting hard pressure on the keys when storing the flute.
• Drying the inside of your flute well after use to prevent the pads from sticking or molding.

If a key sticks, you can carefully resolve it with a pad of paper (special blotting paper without powder) or a blotting sheet to remove the sticky edge. Note: Never pull the blotting sheet from under a tightly pressed key, just blot.

Avoid extreme temperatures – do not leave your flute in the sun or in a cold car. Temperature fluctuations can affect the tuning of the flute, especially when the material of the flute starts to expand or contract. This is particularly important for wooden flutes and headjoints, which can crack due to large differences in humidity and temperature.

Even with good maintenance, a flute occasionally needs a professional check-up. A specialized flute repairer can resolve small issues before they become major defects. Therefore, have your flute adjusted and checked by a professional certified for your brand of flute at least once a year.

As a final tip, keep listening to your flute. If the mechanism starts making noise or the sound quality deteriorates, visit a professional repairer.

When should my flute go to a specialist?