How to Clean Clarinet and Oboe Tone Holes
The solution is simpler than you might think.
Most woodwind tone holes are covered by pads, but some clarinet and oboe tone holes are instead covered by the fingertips of the musician while the instrument is being played. This makes them much more susceptible to the buildup of debris — something that can have a negative impact on tone color and pitch. Excess cork grease, dirt, and skin oil on the musician’s fingers will accumulate over time until the venting of the tone hole is significantly obstructed.
Fortunately, the solution is simple. This grimy residue can easily be removed with a cotton swab or a pipe cleaner — generally no cleaners or solvents are necessary. Simply insert the swab tip into the tone hole and turn in a circular motion until all of the residue is gone. Making a habit of washing your hands before playing will also help ensure that the instrument delivers optimum timbre and pitch.
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