Mouthpieces WILL get dirty…and if left alone, they WILL get nasty! If you see a white build-up beginning to form inside the mouthpiece….you’ve not been taking care of your mouthpiece. But it’s not too late.

BASIC RULE FOR BRASS PLAYERS: You can run warm water through the mouthpiece as often as you like.

REALLY cleaning your mouthpiece requires a few everyday items and a few minutes of your time, approximately every 2 weeks.

Stuff you need:
Mouthpiece brush: it’s tapered especially for brass mouthpieces
Bottle of white vinegar(NOT brown) OR lemon juice

Small juice glass (large enough to hold your mouthpiece
Pour enough vinegar/lemon juice into the glass or bottle so your mouthpiece will be covered completely.

Place the mouthpiece into the container, shank(small end) first. Let it set for about 10 minutes.
Take the mouthpiece out; scrub the inside with the brush. Place the mouthpiece back into the vinegar/lemon juice for another 3-5 minutes; scrub again.

Now rinse the mouthpiece in WARM water and wipe it with a paper towel. If you still see some deposits, repeat the entire process. DO NOT scrape the mouthpiece with any object.

Be sure you’ve rinsed the mouthpiece thoroughly…unless you just like the taste of vinegar or lemon juice!

While you’re at it….be sure the shank(small end) is perfectly round. If not, then air is leaking when you play and playing the instrument is more difficult. Take it to a qualified repair person for correction.