How to fix sticky saxophone pads

[@freebirdofreason1994]

Brilliant, I have just started to learn Alto sax , had one for my 60th birthday, I have a sticky key and I’m now going to clean it just as you suggested. I played guitar for 40 years and now found a new love , it is so much addictive fun. Great video.

[@freebirdofreason1994]

@J it’s in my blood now thanks, guitar , drums , and now sax. Guitar is like breathing now it’s naturally easy. Keep playing every day👍😄

[@williammccrary-b8i]

back in the 70s when i was gigging in hollyweird CA, I kept dollar bills under the pads when i put the saxophone away. now i use micro fiber sheets for the same purpose. i also keep a brush fiber cone in the saxophone while it's in the case.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Love that classic dollar bill fix. I’ve been there myself!

[@williammccrary-b8i]

​@@McGillMusicSaxSchool it also came in handy after the gig if i had the munchies. in the 1970s the $4 under the pads would pay for enough food at macdonald's to satiate any FAKE hunger i might have. FYI: i am now 72 years old and after a 40+ years layoff, i am practicing again!

[@hicracks3980]

G# and C are the most annoying keys for me. Thanks for the tips!

[@tkdscot1]

Glad I found this, just had a sticky body octave key. I got it to.move freely again but the cleaning tip is invaluable.

[@korg475]

Thanks for the Tip guys... I was facing problem with my Bb/A note having a Sticky Pad problem in my Eb Alto Saxophone and ur trick worked... Dhanyavaad from India...🙏

[@BrianJoeSandy]

One way to avoid the G# sticking is to keep a rubber band attached to that ring on the back of the barrel and store the sax with the band strecthed over the place wher your pinky would go. That way the key stays open when stored and dries out without been able to stick.

[@vangildermichael1767]

Cool idea. I haven't tried it yet. But it sounds logically sound.

[@legoblox01]

Can you give me a picture of that? I can't figure out what you're talking about but it seems interesting

[@BrianJoeSandy]

Sorry dont think I can attach a picture. Try cafesaxophone.com/threads/g-sticking.860/page-3

[@legoblox01]

Ahhh i see. That's clever. I'll start doing that

[@paulfairchild3461]

What a great 👍 idea

[@lonnietaylor2892]

Brand new horn G# and Low C# sticky right out of the box. I will try the paper and Q-tip cleaning fixes. Thanks!

[@BjarneB88]

Always! Always the same G# ... I knew the trick with peace of paper since my teacher showed me when I was a kid. I literally have to do it every single time before I play... that's like a routine now. But cotton bud was something new! Will definitely try that out. See what's working better.

[@clairengugi]

thanks for this. G# was a major problem for me. This will be very helpful .

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Brilliant. Glad it’s helping.

[@juliamorrison629]

Very helpful ! G sharp sticking ,will have ago 😊

[@ivanlefebvre3521]

Hi Nigel, After each practice, I clean my saxophone. I also use a keypad cloth. But the one key I never thought of that is now sticky is the little pad near where the neck fits in. That pad is in a closed position but opens when you play G with the octave key. This is one pad that can be easily forgotten.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Great point Ivan - that extra “Vent” key is often a problem too if you don’t keep your sax clean, so great to hear you are keeping a eye on it.

[@AbouTheMagnanimus]

The one thing I have found that helps the most with truly sticky pads that may need to be replaced is actually saddle soap. Basically the stuff you use for leather shoes, upholstery, or saddles. I find that can clean the pads quite well, but you might need to take the key off to really clean it thoroughly. Obviously this is not appropriate for beginners, but it has helped my sticking bis key. An odd key, but I do have rolled tone holes.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That’s interesting Adam. I haven’t tried that.

[@carolinethomas254]

Thanks for the advice. I have also heard that using lighter fuel on the pads is really good. Not used that method yet and will start with water and paper first. My worst key to stick is currently E flat.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hope you get it sorted.

[@georgesmajerus]

I would imagine that inhaling lighter fuel is not the route to better solos. Then again, kids inhale lots of stuff these days!

[@DeeZleUK]

Good advice from an expert sax repairer. Thank you. I've been advised using paper impregnated with lighter fuel is also good for pad cleaning. Apart from the obvious dangers associated with lighter fuel is this a good solution also. I'm always concerned the fuel will damage the pad despite being assured it will preserve the efficiency of the pad. Appreciate other views on this.

[@stevecrowable]

Keith Murch Hi Keith Yes lighter fuel does damage the leather. Cheers Steve

[@georgesmajerus]

@@stevecrowable and your lungs!

[@melanieready6733]

Thanks for the tips! My G sharp key drives me crazy. In spite of the fact that I dry it with paper after every practice and check it when I start playing again - inevitably halfway through playing it sticks again. ...... but I do drink water. Could that affect it? Going to try the Q tip suggestion though, thank you!

[@nizamtamim]

Thanks for the tip. I always brush my teeth and clean my tongue. Gargling is important too. Try it after you've had a snack or a chocolate. You will be surprised what comes out.All that would get into your saxophone. This should sound a bit of work but it's really worth it.SAVE YOUR PADS.

[@joesweeting1746]

A and b keys stick really bad. I will try them tips and hope for the best thanks very much nigel

[@ironingmike]

I'm guessing that this is wrong on any number of levels, but it works beautifully for me. I use a folded anti-bacterial wipe which I drag back and forth across the pad/hole then a folded post-it note (NOT the sticky bit) to dry and remove residue. A handy pack of wipes and a book of post its are always on hand in my case. I play alto, tenor, bari and bass clarinet and wouldn't be without them.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool tip Mike!

[@WillieWunderbar]

Check out video: "top tip for cleaning your saxophoe pads" (Allbras): (Wet) Baby wipes! It makes older pads as new and also stops the sticking. It conditions the leather so yes it leaves residu but that residu is sucked into the leather. It's just right. After using this my sax got very free-blowing so apparantly it was always leaking a bit dispite that the pads were all in the correct position.

[@JamesDarn]

This has been very useful. Thanks. My G# gets stuck a lot!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool. Glad it helped you James!

[@Twopan]

Front Bb spatula key sticky and lazy on my sop. Only starts to emerge after playing for a while producing unwanted grace note between A and B! G# and Eb keys on my tenor a martyr to it as well. Will try this cleaning routine thanks!

[@adriann3885]

I used to always have sticking G# keys. Since then, I started drying out my saxes when I get home from a gig or regularly after practise sessions. I then always reassemble them and put them on their stands, (not in their cases) in a nice dry room. The problem has gone completely. I have a poor memory, but if I can see that if my saxes are in their stands, I know I have cleaned and dried them.

[@unclemick-synths]

I just bought a used sax. As soon as I saw there was a "pad saver" in it I wasn't surprised to find the G# was seriously sticky!

[@annebateman6326]

Great tips! Thanks!

[@akualezlihope7301]

Thank you! Brand new soprano sax, only one key sticks -- C#. I kept the little rubber lifts that came with it, and when I remember to insert one, at the end of practice, it doesn't stick... But I don't always and when i don't I've tried the paper. I'll try the Q-tip next.

[@ballpythonsarecool5437]

My c# always sticks on my baritone its annoying

[@billholder1330]

YAAY! Saved me a service shop visit!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Awesome!!

[@ZappRoyce]

I just bought an old Alto sax, the pads look quite good, what's the best treatment of bringing them back to life, saddle soap ?

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Good question - I would just stick to water and a soft cloth.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Good question - I would just stick to water and a soft cloth.

[@msprofessr]

My A and B keys were sticking. I’m trying your ideas now. Thx

[@miakoian4167]

This video man 🔥🔥

[@peterlbos]

My G# key sticks. The way I have totally eradicated this is to dry all the always closed key pads after playing. It's just part of my swabbing out routine after playing.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

This is annoying. Cleaning the pads helps. Also check out the key leaves products.

[@funjoy9059]

4:00

[@stormfist9927]

bless you i was about to start biting my almost brand-new saxophone

[@andregilbert7556]

G# sticks most of the time; will try your tips. Thank you!

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Glad it helped Andre!

[@callumpender7233]

Thanks so much. Also, what kind of neck strap do you use?

[@georgedrazenovich4869]

I heard that using a Bounce sheet (that is those scented sheets that goes in dryers to prevent - leaves less residue than chalk...not sure is it is completely kosher but I do use those sheets especially for my G # pad which often sticks

[@LeszekN]

Thanks for next great video-advice 👍

[@sabnavis51]

Its indeed a great tip . For me its mostly the G# key . I simply press the key & the moment it lifts, I place a small tissue paper in the gap & leave it like that till the next operation of the Saxophone.

[@robstevens9590]

I watched this last year, but had to review it again because I was having some problems with (high) Bb key sticking. Any more details about that particular key would be helpful.

[@Twopan]

Front key or side?

[@robstevens9590]

@@Twopan the (front) bis key

[@Twopan]

@@robstevens9590 Yes, same on my soprano. It becomes sticky and lazy when moving between A and B or C. I will try cleaning the pad and hole rim with a cotton bud. I also have terrible trouble with the Ab/G# and Eb/D# keys on my tenor. I always have to check the Ab is working particularly before a gig as it's a vital blue note in D blues!

[@Unbekannt12]

I use a soft cloth impregnated with neutral shoe polish that I pull between the pad and the tone hole, wait a few minutes and pull a dry cloth through. It cleans and waterproofs the pads and does not leave any residue, it's like shining a shoe. Mink Oil is the best I found and I never have a problem if I do it periodically (every 3-4 months).

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Ok cool, that’s a great tip Michael - I’ve never tried that.

[@Unbekannt12]

Nigel, let me know how this works for you. I recondition all pads at least twice a year luke this, it takes less than 15 min for an entire horn including dry time an I haven't had a sticky pad in years. If there is already a dark ring on the seat, you may try charcoal lighter fluid or WD40 on a Qtip first to remove it.

[@MiguelGonzalez-dr1jj]

I was told by a Master Sax repairman ,Ken B ,that covering the Pads with campofenique protects them

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That’s an interesting fix - I’ve never heard that before. Great to hear it works.

[@jimneely2052]

Thanks for the video... like most I have a sticky G# pad, I found that a stiff business card does the trick, of course that is paper as well. I wonder why only a couple of pads ever stick??? I think the alto sax has around 24 - 25 pads. Thanks.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hey Jim. Cool - I’ve never used a business card.

[@WesAndTheAutomobiles]

Hi Jim, The reason only some pads stick is because most of the pads are always open and only close when you press their key, so they stay dry. But some of the pads (like G#) are always closed and only open when you press the key, so they will stick

[@TomUcadia]

Thank you. xx

[@dougmoran3340]

A strip of “Ultrasuede”, used pretty much like the strip of paper shown in the video, is very effective. It’s a synthetic suede fabric, available on line.

[@stevecrowable]

Doug Moran Hi Doug Bang on

[@evenglare]

G sharp is the bane of my life

[@andyshaw325]

I have a 1934 Conn 6m that I've had for around twenty five years and the pads have never stuck - none ever! However, I've recently had it overhauled and new pads throughout and now I'm getting pads (Bb biz, G# and the tone hole between F and G#) sticking or bouncing (pad sticks for a millisecond) all the time. I can stop it with lighter fluid for a while but it keeps coming back. I don't eat whilst playing and only sip on water, and my instrument has rolled tone holes. Is it normal for new pads to stick? I'll try your method but I'm not hopeful.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

That sounds super annoying. Perhaps check with your repairer - I wonder if it’s something on the pads from new?

[@andyshaw325]

@@McGillMusicSaxSchool Update. Well I have to hand it to you guys. I soaked some thick paper in water (in strips) and pulled it against the problem pads (and some of the others) then dry thick paper to finish off. I repeated it a number of times just to be sure and guess what it 99% cured the problem. The Bb biz does not stick at all neither the G# key and just slight bouncing on that key between F and G#. I'll repeat the process on that key. I'm pretty certain that there was something sticky on the new pads and this method has all but removed it and my sax is back to its lightning fast action. 10/10 A+👍

[@andyshaw325]

I've just noticed the name of your repair guy. Yea he's great Steve Crow, actually worked on my sax; did a major repair on the crook of my Conn and fixed an intonation problem. Pity he lives out in the wilds. You can't get better than Steve for old saxes.

[@andyshaw325]

further update: I took my Sax over to Keith Anderson in Doncaster and after an examination he concluded that the overhaul had been done with cheap pads - and several pads were leaking due to incorrect setting. The moral to this story is don't get your Saxophone repaired in Sheffield.

[@charry6848]

G# for sure. It's sits closed in the neutral position so of course it will stick more I suppose. Thanks this was helpful. Gave me some cred with my son who I've often told not to drink sugary drinks and play! so - heres the proof.

[@timmauro35]

I always have an issue with my B key and my G sharp key. Could you also do a video about leeks on the tone holes please?

[@stevecrowable]

Tim Mauro Hi Tim Yes will have a look at this. Cheers Steve

[@karenaddison208]

The 3 upper left keys of my soprano sax ( G,B and A)doesn't produce the experted sound. What can i do about it please

[@gilbertvassart5359]

One thing I find useful for the sticky G# is to insert a vandoren reed wraping between the whole and the pad when leaving the sax in its box.

[@sablezubshruz9811]

👌👌👌😍

[@elewa7951]

This was a helpful vide

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Thanks for watching Olivier!

[@Magnus44711URI]

I have a student model straight soprano, and the octave key pad (on the main body) is a real gremlin. On closer inspection, its pad appears to be made from cork, not leather. I'm wondering is this the issue.

[@matta5348]

So...black coffee with no sugar while playing is ok and won’t foul the pads? *takes a sip 😉 Great video, my new (used) tenor plays so much better since I’ve cleaned it per your tips...thanks!💪🏼

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Brilliant!

[@AzeemWardFlute]

Thank you

[@ph2738]

I have found it is so hard to resist eating or drinking when the host throws open the bar and the buffet to the band during the band's break! Always rinse well afterwards. I always envied the guitar play, bass player and drummer in my last band when we where playing a show/rehearse at the band leaders' winery. They all had a nice glass of wine at their stand. I would always have to say "No thanks until after the show".

[@stevecrowable]

Paul Huffman Hi Paul I know just what you mean. Cheers Steve

[@גבריאלישר]

Thanks!

[@ashtondutson8783]

thanks

[@Ickle1964]

Someone said to me that you could leave a used reed to open the sticky pads after playing can help alleviate the issue. I don't know if this a truth or myth. I think I'm having a wee bit of an issue with pads at the moment. I need to figure out what the issue is quick

[@Ickle1964]

Hi just thought I'd let you know I fixed the sticky key with a peace of photocopy paper. If I remember correctly it was the Bb (flat key). Thanks for the tip

[@MrPaulliebregts]

Great video information. Makes me think of when using the Swab, to use Isopropyl rubbing Alcohol instead of water or Lighter fuel? It evaporates fast or is there a problem with residues, or does it "denature" the pad materials What is your take on this

[@marcbohets6671]

Same question here, I use Isopropyl alcohol to clean electronics, and to salvage cell phones from water damage, as it evaporates without leaving any residu. Would it harm the pads ?

[@vangildermichael1767]

How do you feel about pads made from Marsupial animals? Do they stick the same? Are they worth the 3 fold price they cost? They do tout that they are a lifetime thing. But really, I've only changed my pads one time. And that was on a 20 years old saxophone. I do have my sax cleaned every couple years.

[@stevecrowable]

VanGilder Michael Hi I think all pads will stick at some point. Cheers Steve

[@davidkingston4136]

Blot the pads to remove all the water every time you've finished playing. It feels like a chore but you get quick at it and in the long run it is worth it.

[@Jackson-sr7ms]

Help! My small B-flat key is sticky and I’ve tried everything to fix it but nothing worked! Could anybody give any tips?

[@oculusanji24fe48]

I'm about a week into the saxophone world, and omg there so many things wrong with mine. I bought a use sax which kinda makes me feel disguise thinking someone saliva was constantly being pump into it. I bought the sax not knowing a thing about it. I just know big metal pipe does cool noises. Letraily all of my pads are sticky I need to drench this thing in bleach and then oil lol

[@alanrosenthal8952]

I'm using the iu cigarette paper

[@jasonhumphries]

what about the Dreaded, toilet paper that's like tracing paper, lol can you use that.

[@PonchMuniz]

What about pipe cleaners dipping them in rubbing alcohol?

[@sablezubshruz9811]

Alcohol will go in pad material, may soften it, degrade etc. I use optical cleaning silk fabric (thin and soft) - put it between pad and tone hole - after play. C# does not bother me any more.

[@robertgreen3702]

I use lemon oil (not lemon juice😄) or lighter fluid with an ear bud. They keep the leather in good condition.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool, great tip!

[@ciprianboghitoi]

thank you for tips ! G# is driving me crazy

[@aeryntwofeathers4463]

Have the same with my P. Mauritius soprano stencil Plus a sticky OK Here's what to do C# key slip a small piece of cardboard, like from a business card, between the pad and cusp or tone hole. G# key slip a piece of paper folded no larger than the size of the pad, between the pad and tone hole. Bis Key, see above but smaller. O. Key cigarette paper folded, slip it between the pad and tone hole. Have been using this for many years and spent less time at the repair shop! Don't eat or drink alcoholic or sodas or tea, sweetened. After the gig eat and drink and be merry!

[@stevecrowable]

Aeryn TwoFeathers Great

[@aeryntwofeathers4463]

THANKS, MATE!

[@AlexB691]

Clicked on the vid and got his ad for his school

[@TheCommentator353]

Just bought a brand new YTS-62 and the low C and B pads stick. Shit!

[@stephenriley6541]

Replace the water with lighter fuel. Dries quickly and removes all residue

[@robertactkinson1138]

You can use a Dollar bill also.

[@ph2738]

a $20 works better. a $100 works better yet! I have wondered what denomination they use in the UK, and now I learn from this video that they use a 20 pound note.

[@investoman007]

Saxophones need a built on mechanism that forces and pushes that G# open instead of simply releasing it when you press on the key. Sometimes, a bird needs “pushed” out of it’s nest!

[@MigDonalds4235]

Nothing ticks off a sax player more than a stick G# key, I am in the marching band and I've had a song that had a lot of G#s so when it got stuck I was more than ticked at my sax bc I couldn't just fix it in the middle of the show lol

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Yep, it’s pretty frustrating. Also check out the Keyleaves product. They sent me some a while back and they are fantastic for avoiding sticky pads.

[@Nimzo2005]

I have always known not to do what he does at 4:22. Pulling the paper while pressing the pads could damage the pads, especially if the paper is as thick as photocopy paper. I prefer the second solution.

[@olimphus26]

I bought a saxophone recently and all the pads have this green outline and are sticking. Otherwise the saxophone is in near perfect condition

[@jonahnanooi9616]

Low C# sticks the most.

[@dougboyer210]

G# and C#

[@timtuthill4915]

Nigel: I have a cloth product that is not on the market anymore. How ever it is very easy to make . Send me a n email and I will scan it and send it along to you. Works great Tim

[@Hefferidge]

My Sax repairer said coffee paper is good.

[@timothyfogarty5829]

I'm here because of g #

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hope this helps you

[@pertrholen1419]

Biss key

[@elewa7951]

Video

[@gosneygosney]

G#... Use Exotix Leather Treatment that does not dry sticky.

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Cool.

[@suerouse-ottonelli6931]

G sharp d sharp

[@greasyrails2571]

My a is is bad

[@JohnSacca-y5z]

G #. Major issue

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Hope this helps you with that.

[@laokartoon7300]

G#

[@TWilliams205]

First person

[@robinchallis1312]

and today we're going to talk about talking about sticky pads. Now sticky pads can be a real problem. So let's talk about that. Obviously we don't want pads to stick because this can inhibit our playing of the saxophone. And since we are trying to play a saxophone this is undesirable. So let's talk about this problem of sticking pads. In order to overcome the undesirable situation referred to. Right, we've now talked about sticky pads. In my next video we can talk about how to deal with sticky pads. Perhaps.

[@nickcouture2776]

19th view

[@gregoryleonwatson8631]

Thanks 😊 I use wax paper on the difficult keys when the saxophone is in the case resting. When I remove the paper to play, nothing is sticking. I do have a weak F# key. I have to wait for it to unstick. The F# spring is weaker than the stickiness. 😮

[@McGillMusicSaxSchool]

Wax paper is a good trick.

[@gregoryleonwatson8631]

I have a situation. When I go to play F# on my Alto, the key above the F# sticks. I think the spring is bent. I used needle nose pliers and tweezers to unattach the spring. It makes me nervous, sometimes springs break at the tip. When I unattached it, it was pointing at an acute angle. I got scared and just reattached the spring. Do you have any advice for me ? I'm gonna unattach the spring. See if I can remove it from it's housing so I can flatten the curve. Many Thanks

[@isaiahgotkicks]

G#