The Essential Saxophone Cleaning Routine Everyone Must Do

[@omarortiz5487]

I just got the BetterSax swab and it’s the best swab I’ve ever had. And the fact that I got the combo (body/neck/ sponge swab) at such a good price is unbeatable!! I always swab my instrument but a lot of the swabs out there, the fabrics are meh, they just do the work, but BetterSax swab is something else. Love it Jay!

[@bettersax]

Thanks! Glad to hear it.

[@banized7323]

There definitely needs to be a good way to clean your Bari saxes that isn’t tying swaps together

[@lionelmerrill5371]

I'm an 80 yr old trumpet player who is learning to play the alto sax. Why..... because I love music of any kind, and more importantly, in retirement one needs to keep the mind in a learning mode. Thanks so much for the hints, methods and initial learning which I have received from your videos. Yes I do take the time to keep a clean sax and a clean mouth. Thanks so much.

[@joeblankenship377]

When I googled saxophone lung, I saw 3 articles where clarinet players got sick with it. Why isn't it called clarinet lung then? It's a conspiracy. Perpetrated by the same people that keep the saxophone out of the orchestra.

[@derekakien7379]

Heard of this. I was told never let anyone blow your horn. Before going to the repairer I always sterilise everything with an antiseptic spray. After collection as well!

[@Kiklog425]

Joe Blankenship Yes it's very strange. Trumpet players can also develop it, according to Wikipedia. Don't know why they called it Saxophone lung. In fact, just about any woodwind and brass instrument can get it. It's ridiculous.

[@trickster7188]

REED LUNGGGGGGGGGGGG

[@meemmahn2856]

the clarinet people are trying to make themselves look better. BAN THE CLARINET

[@ninjaaron]

Given that the saxophone is vastly more popular than the clarinet, it is not surprising that it is named after the most widely played instrument where players experience this condition. And anyway, the clarinet players who had this obviously just had a mis-diagnosed case of COVID-19.

[@Capricegirl_]

I am not a saxophone player, but I like watching your videos.

[@FlintFandango]

Same here! ;) I´d love to play saxophone, but well, maybe someday...

[@fyodorsfluffywhitehatmar]

Tetsuo Shima I’m sure you would be able to play saxophone someday. I’ve been wanting to play an Alto Saxophone since 2017 [grade five]. My music teacher didn’t let me since I was very good with the flute [she said I could play saxophone for jazz in grade six though]. Now, for grade seven jazz I play Tenor sax [played flute for grade six jazz and yes, I like Tenor better than Alto now]. You’ll be able to play saxophone one day c:

[@pfg-dash981]

Same here

[@eesaw3632]

@@fyodorsfluffywhitehatmar tenor>alto

[@thomasyoung7615]

@@eesaw3632 alto>tenor lol

[@jeromejagroop5516]

I enjoy cleaning my saxophones! And most times I’d say to it “you so good looking “ lol

[@SH1974]

Mee too - Although I have just one... A Saxophone is just a saxy Instrument!

[@randalllopez9338]

@@SH1974 wanna have sax?

[@SH1974]

@@randalllopez9338 I have my dose of Sax every day... ;)

[@KeyLeaves]

Thanks for this great video, Jay! It's always great to hear your candid take on things and we're thrilled that Key Leaves is helping keep your saxophones free from sticky pad rot.

[@bettersax]

Thanks for sending me the Key Leaves. Once you try those things you can't live without them...

[@TheSaxForge]

Good Day, Saxophonists! I thought it would be important to give a word or two of thought: There are a few commenters that are saying “I use cork for the same purpose” and that’s fine! At least you’re doing something. This product is just a step above all of those “home remedy” type of solutions. Unlike cork, it will not absorb and retain moisture, it will not scratch your instrument, and will last FOREVER. Key Leaves aren’t a rival to those methods... They are an improvement. If you don’t want to spend the $20ish dollars for them, don’t. But my saxophones’ condition is worth more than $20 to me. I recommend these to practically everyone who is looking for *THE BEST* way to stop sticking keys on their horns. -Alex Singleton Saxophone Professor at Covenant College, Chattanooga SCC, Cleveland SCC Conn-Selmer Endorsing Artist Key Leaves Endorsing Artist Wind Technician at Consistent-C Winds

[@derekakien7379]

Weird product. LoL. Saw them in a mailshot from Sax.co.uk. Pleased to see they work!!! My keys on Tenor, Alto and Sop always stick - have to remember to flick them before I play, highly embarrassing!

[@KeyLeaves]

There are some great questions coming up repeatedly in comments below. Check out the Key Leaves FAQ page for more detailed info

[@RulonBrown]

@@TheSaxForge always great to hear the perspective of a repair tech on this. Thanks!

[@lucasjustice]

Me: googles Saxophone lung Also me: hasn’t cleaned my Saxophone thoroughly in a year and regularly sucks the spit out of it

[@ThomasW280]

Justice Comics That is literally me

[@starzzy880]

That's disgusting

[@kithalie]

Lmao hasn't cleaned mine thoroughly in like 4-5 years

[@itz_zatta7352]

Literally me. Except I don’t clean, lol hasn’t been clean in most like aLONGGGGG time

[@fudgel1126]

@@starzzy880 yep but if you play the sax it gets annoying after a while.

[@xrgiok]

Bettersax Swab is best out there! Glad that you designed it man! Now I can swab my alto neck and mouthpiece easy!

[@bettersax]

Thank you so glad to hear it.

[@jacquelamontharenberg]

Great stuff Jay. I am a veteran tenor player and I do everything you have suggested after every session. After home rehearsals, I also run warm water through the neck and mouthpiece. Since I have rolled tone holes on my Keilwerth SX90R, special cleaning attention goes to the palm keys, upper left hand keys and low C# keys. IMPORTANT. Do not drink any sugary beverages or beer etc... when rehearsing or gigging. If you do, keep a bottle of water with you to rinse out your mouth (couple swigs) to get the sugar out of your month. A sticky pad occurring during a live performance can be embarrassing.

[@nathanhetzer757]

“How many saxophones do you think I have!?” Literally has SIX saxophones sitting behind him.

[@anthonyromainjr4829]

Nah that's the green screen bro

[@thatoneguy3034]

Lol

[@caseykorstanje9942]

I stole this idea from Yamaha. I bought a large piece of silk, tied a string to both ends (one with a weight) and then pull it back and forth through the horn. Works great.

[@plunder21]

That's a really nice video, i do everything to keep my saxophone clean, and now i see that i do it right :D !! I really didn't know that the C# and the G# or the Eb should stay open for the most of the time, so that's a really good information, and the gadget that you used seems a really good idea!! Thank you Jay for sharing it with us!! :D

[@bettersax]

Yes, Key Leaves will take your saxophone maintenance to the next level..

[@patchristinel3668]

Thanks Jay. I have been diligently cleaning my horn thoroughly after every playing session and have encouraged my fellow band members to do the same. I will recommend your video to them.

[@bettersax]

Thanks

[@hdwscoot9884]

“ If you’re a parent make your children watch this” Me ( a 12 year old ) watching this as my parents tell me to stop watching youtube

[@-MON3Y_FOR_L1F3-]

Fr 😂

[@qiebi2567]

I borrow a bari sax from my school, its never been cleaned, from what ive known. It hasnt been used for 3 years until this year, now im taking my sax health personally im ourchasing a sax cleaning kit. 🎷 ❤️

[@Gasmassk]

I've been watching your videos for two weeks now and can't believe how much I'm learning. I am very glad that I've found out about the "sludge" before getting a saxophone. You've also pointed me towards what I think will be my first saxophone; I want to get a Yanagisawa T-WO1. I know most people recommend getting a "student sax" first, but I've always wanted to play the sax (10 years already) but started playing drums and have been doing so professionally for 4 years now. It's long overdue, as I have been listening to jazz for more than a decade and can't wait any longer. Sorry for the long comment, just glad that I found your videos and a lot of people seem to find them very useful. All the best! - Stere

[@mrsaxy-music]

I do the same cleaning routine after ever time I play. I use pieces of old wine corks to prop open the keys discussed plus I use them to prop open my palm keys and the body octave key. I have a Super 20 Silversonic tenor I purchased new in 1968. Keep up the great videos!

[@Hanzi2u]

wow

[@alisaam1]

I always cleaned my saxophone after using it, but it was to keep it functional. Now, with your explanation, I have learned that cleanliness also serves to keep me functional. Thanks so much for this Jay. Keep up the good work. Said Amido

[@petersax7305]

Thank you. Great video. I did not know about the key leaves but I do swab all the pads with some household paper. However I do something additional which occurred to me some time ago: Once I have swabbed the horn, mouthpiece and neck I put some small Silica Gel bags into the horn and also into the bag. These Silica gel bags absorb the rest of humidity which might be remaining. I never have problems with sticky keys or bad smell. Since I have not heard from nobody else who uses these silica gel bags I wanted to recommend that here to all of you.

[@johnminkishere]

PeterSax I do use silica gels. Pretty essential if you cannot leave your sax out overnight

[@1rocknroy]

I use two 50 gram bags in the bell. Seems to help.

[@georgf9279]

Just stick a piece of 3-5mm thick cork between the low B and low C sharp button. C sharp and G sharp keys will stay open.

[@debrahbussey6104]

thanks so much for your videos Jay. I haven't played in over 30 years and just recently bought an Alto Sax...what was thinking...lol..so basically starting over. The sax I bought hadn't been used in over 10 years (was in storage) but still in excellent condition. It is a student model so I am okay with that for now. I needed to start with the cleaning so this video was awesome. I will be watching it more than once and step by step I will eventually be playing once again. Funny story though, I rented one a bit ago and brought it home, stared at it for an hour, then decided to put it together and low and behold my fingers knew what they were doing. Played the scale a few times. Was so enlightening and soul soothing. sure did miss it. now I am going to be watching many videos on playing and removing those nasty cobwebs on the rolodex in the brain. Have a great day and look forward to watching many more of your vids.

[@UrbanElectronicMusic]

My cleaning routine is almost exactly like yours, with the exception being I was taught to use unglued cigarette paper to dry the pads of the closed, palm, and altissimo keys..Modiano Bistro is the brand. On the plus side, they're cheap. On the minus side, you might have to do some explaining as to why you've got rolling papers in you case - especially is you're still living with your parents.

[@brucelortie1963]

It's been 40 years. Thanks for the refresher courses!

[@bettersax]

You bet!

[@VickVicka]

I'm a beginner college sax player for my wind methods class and was having trouble with the level one swabbing part, thank you for the great visual example!

[@johnkotches8320]

Key Leaves (Rulon Brown) has a product called Vent Vines which function similarly to the Key Leaves for palm keys. I’m ordering a set after replacing my palm key pads. Besides swabbing my mouthpiece I soak the mouthpieces about once a week in cold tap water to keep from getting buildup that swabbing might miss. Using warm or hot water on hard rubber mouthpieces can cause oxidation which is why I always use cold water.

[@bettersax]

I'm looking forward to the vent vines which I hope to get my hands on as well.

[@KeyLeaves]

@@bettersax That will be coming your way soon with some other sax goodies we thing you may enjoy.

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

Are the Vines in stock? They were back ordered...

[@KeyLeaves]

@@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823 Yes. Ready to ship world-wide.

[@paulthackeray2721]

I always do as you suggest and also rinse the mpc in cold water before drying it, plus I rinse the reeds I’ve used. Takes 10 seconds tops. Reeds last longer and mpc stays fresh. Also I use cork to keep open right hand side keys cos my side Bb always sticks! My tenor, alto and sop saxes are expensive beasts - after giving me all they’ve got for a couple of hours they deserve 2 minutes of TLC.

[@bettersax]

Your horns will stay in great shape for a long time I'm sure.

[@kyraleigh6654]

Thank you so much for making this video. I’m older and have always wanted to learn to play sax. So, I bought my first sax (tenor) and this is so helpful to make sure I keep my sax clean after playing. I also appreciate your Amazon page for the products you recommend.

[@tinanorth8243]

I clean my Reed with mouthwash too, keeps the mouthpiece and Reed minty fresh! 😉

[@I_M_Nonno]

This is smarter than one would think. I use Hydrogen Peroxide in a spray bottle. Spray the reed and let it sit while I clean the mouthpiece. Then wipe off and store. No more black rot forming on the reed and they last forever. I expect the mouthwash would do similar

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

@@I_M_Nonno i wouldn't use HP, because I'm stupid and would forget and spray it where i need water

[@derekakien7379]

Antiseptic sprays are freely available in the USA and the UK - small bottle fits in case. I use two branded swabs and every week spray homemade swabs (shoelace and piece of silk shirt) until it is damp and pull them through. Hang them up to dry before putting back in the case.

[@edwardtisdale7487]

I used to just soak them in diluted mouthwash then I stopped for a while but now I found a tiny lockable spray bottle that fits in my alto case which I filled with pure Listerine

[@zacharynguyen7286]

Incredible video, please continue to make more

[@owengriffis443]

when i got my saxophone also got a bunch of cleaning supplies for it but didn't know what to do with them so this helps a lot

[@RoseCadenza]

I literally had to look up what saxophone lung was when you mentioned it. I've never heard about it before. I'm so glad I do now.

[@bettersax]

that's why I said Google it.

[@T.H.W.O.T.H]

Thanks Jay. You've literally just saved my life! 🎷 😋 🎷

[@bettersax]

haha

[@benjaminrosales9078]

One habit I've done religiously prior to playing is to brush my teeth. It may seem trivial, but it really does help keep germs, food particles, and sugar out of my saxophones.

[@joeblankenship377]

I put a piece of folded cloth in my C# key to prop it open and it opens up the G# as well. Helps a lot.

[@grannyjack1]

I’m such a sax slob. Thanks for this video. When you’ve had the same horn for almost fifty years you get kind of careless.. bought key leaves several years ago but they just sit in my case. Meanwhile I usually pry the keys open before I practise.😢. The only reason I still have the horn…a mk VI…is because I’ve had some great repairpersons over the years…they clean it. But I pledge to start using those key leaves and to swab, swab, swab!

[@d.guillaume8941]

Thank for your videos and all advises. I learn a lot each time.

[@nederlandsemuziek9151]

As a new saxophone player, I started 2 days ago and I have zero experience I and I'm using the school saxophone and I am saving up to get my very own I find your videos very entertaining and I learned to much thank you very much.

[@timlinnabary8296]

For cleaning the pads I use paper coffee filters. The paper is tough enough to stand being pulled between the pad and the chimney, and they’re cheap.

[@johncapriglione9647]

I agree whole heartedly with your routine in keeping things cleaned and dried. I'm amazed at how many players pack up their horn and split. I would like to suggest that when swabbing the body of the horn to do the following as well: As the swab begins to pass the right hand pads, close them to allow the swab to dry whatever moisture has affected them. As well, when the swab comes to the left hand keys/pads, close them as well for the same reason. The G#/Eb key opener is a must for total aeration and avoidance of eventual pad rot. I as well occasionally will spray the swabs with a Lyslol disinfectant and periodically wash the swabs. Regrettably the one thing that I disagree with is your using the neck swab to clean out the mouthpiece. Yuk!! (-: A good old toothbrush and some soap for me. My '66 Mark VI Tenor, and my '73 Mark VI Alto hopefully love me for the way I care for them. Would not part with them for the world. Jay .... You're the best. Love viewing you regularly.

[@sillygoose2476]

I'm considering getting an Alto Saxophone soon and this was a great help. Thanks Jay!

[@lydiavanhout2006]

I have to do better now I saw your video! Keep up doing this good work! I always enjoy watching your video's.

[@rufus-h4h]

Good info. The hardest part of the sax to clean is the bow area. That is where the worst debris collects. I would like to see a large diameter brush with a curved end to fit in the bell. To my knowledge, no companies are offering it. For the swab to be aggressive enough to be effective in that area, they might get caught in the octave vent at the top of the body. Thanks for this video.

[@mortalstorm]

I use Haagen daz popsicle sticks inserted at the keys to keep the tone holes open. Occasionally I would use a solution of water and vinegar sprayed on the swab cloth to help eliminate odors.

[@jsazparren]

Great video!!! I swap my YTS-62 sax every time I play and also I use cleaning paper and powder paper (from yamaha brnd) with all closed keys, because many times got closed when I tried to play. It takes more time, but I already get into my maintenance proces, is not much time. 😊👍

[@terrelharper464]

I was reluctant at first but after watching this and their video, I ordered key leaves for myself!

[@SacBillM3]

Jay - I've been using Key Leaves for a few months now, and I've found them to be excellent maintenance tools, and I highly recommend them. I even bought a set of the altissimo key leaves for my tenor. I use them after swabbing out my horn following each practice. Admittedly, I got lazy a few times, but when I had to replace my high register pads, it was a lesson I won't forget -- clean after each play. Thanks!

[@KeyLeaves]

That's great to hear! Thanks for giving them a try and going for the ultimate pro care option with a Key Leaves Vent Vine to protect the sax pads from high palm D up. Thanks!

[@rafagxjunglezz]

Oh ty so much for the vid!😊 Now I will clean my sax all the times👍

[@cathycuccia3385]

I learned the hard way about using a silk swab rather than one made of chamois. My alto sax wasn't playing well so I took it in for repairs. Turns out the chamois swab had disintegrated into parts of my sax. Recently discovered key leaves and I use them to prevent sticky keys...especially G sharp. Lessons learned. Thanks for spreading the word, Jay.

[@ChrisF_1982]

I know this is a rather old post, but did you happen to have an acidic diet? I'm not a chemist in the slightest, but we do know acid can dissolve, and it's entirely possible that what you were eating was more friendly to the silk.

[@TheSaxAppeal]

I recommend using a cloth for the pads that stay down when they're not pressed, along with the key leaf

[@raulnacianceno180]

Very good teaching. something important that we sometimes neglect, we continue to learn in this course. thanks jay

[@Gyula-Sipos]

I do exactly the same routine on the saxophone after every session. However, I use the pad dryer on ALL keys. The bare minimum is these pads: palm keys, G#, Eb, low C#. Quite surprising to see, how much moisture can be on the Eb and low C# pads. Using this extra pad care guarantees no sticky pads. at all. Also, I pull the body swab slowly through the horn to give enough time to absorb the moisture. The slowness makes it more effective.

[@lukem3203]

Thanks for this. I get my tenor sax tomorrow at school.

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

Take very good care of it, they're insanely expensive and more fragile than you'd think...

[@ChrisF_1982]

I never heard of Saxophine ling, but thankfully I've always cleaned mine. I don't swab my mouthpiece, but rinse it out after ever use and let it air dry.

[@presentconstellations]

Good Looking Out! I've been really good about swabbing for my beginning playing years. However recently I've been wondering if all the swabbing was absolutely necessary. I don't picture Coltrane or any of those players being uptight enough (or sober enough) to diligently swab. Now that I know about Sax Lung I'm going to up my swabbing from 2-3 passes

[@sandygiuffrida2521]

Hey Jay. I wanted to tell you about a thing I know you have at some point. It is called a pad saver. It's a long furry thing that goes inside the sax from the top down. I had one in my Yamaha 62 for over fifteen years and when I recently opened the case I fully expected to see torn wasted pads that were either stuck or just gone. But not a single pad was stuck and I did a light check and not one leak. That's twenty years of not playing that horn and it used to be my main horn I used on so many countless gigs. Go figure.

[@Thevisualseed]

amazing video, I have been really wanting to start playing the saxophone and all of your videos have encourage me to start practicing it! thank you so much for all of those helpful videos!

[@rayphillips5578]

I have been playing sax for years but I am amazed what I am learning here great site keep it going

[@ItsRaspbeary]

I got really worried (I have anxiety and get freaked out about things) but i already do this! I treat my saxophone like my child and only a few time I have forgotten to clean it. I always make sure to clean out my sax even if I'm going to miss my bus lol. And I've never seen key leaves so I'm excited to enter the giveaway!

[@KeyLeaves]

Good luck on the giveaway!

[@1dotele]

@@KeyLeaves I already bought a set and will buy 2 more for my other horns if I don't win a set that is , support American business people it's a great idea and product

[@KeyLeaves]

@@1dotele That's great to hear, James. Thank you for valuing quality, innovation and domestic know how. All of that helps our community be more healthy and robust.

[@jakoblintrup9473]

Thanks for a lot of good videos! Do you have any good advice on cleaning a baritone?

[@benthesaxguy13]

Helpful video, thanks. I haven’t cleaned any of my horns in twenty years and they ooze of cigarettes and whiskey lol. While I enjoy that, it’s time to start some maintenance.

[@sablezubshruz9811]

Same with my guitars. Time to start use swab.

[@Whammybar61]

I really like your approach to better playing....hope to get some of your on line lessons for Christmas

[@raulnacianceno180]

Great explanation about cleaning the saxophone that we sometimes neglect. thank you so much jay

[@johnathanw.1516]

I bought the Key Leaves when I noticed the G# on my new tenor was periodically sticking. After a while of using the Key Leaves, the issue pretty much fixed itself (but I still leave them in place), so the product definitely works. My altos and tenor get swabbed out after every use, even after a quick 10 minutes of long tone practice. One thing I did buy were silica gel packets, I keep one in each case just to absorb ambient moisture which may hide in areas the swab misses. The little 5 gram ones (size I bought/use) should suffice a basic alto/tenor case. You can pick them up by the bag on Amazon or eBay for a few bucks. Also, even though silica gel isn’t a corrosive substance and is pretty much a benign chemical, I wouldn’t recommend letting them sit directly on or in the body of your sax......just for sake of being safe.

[@KeyLeaves]

This great to hear, Johnathan! Curing sticky G# on saxophones is what Key Leaves is all about so it's great to know your had such positive experience with the product. Thanks for sharing!

[@lukemccartney8191]

Good video! I’ll definitely think more about my saxophones health

[@LucaszJazz]

I love every video from this man

[@DjMimou87]

Great content as always! Thank you Jay

[@bettersax]

Thanks

[@derecktorres6042]

I did all the steps for myself on my alto sax and I created my own key leafs thing. I wish i could send a picture but I dont Know how. 🎷

[@avm7368]

Great inspiration! :) Tenor and alto are easy to clean. But how do you wipe your baritone? 🤔 I always had difficulties with that 😅

[@charlesa2893]

avm7368 omg yes I cant find anything about it

[@madmarsupial]

At the very least, get a Hodge Silk Baritone Saxophone Swab, it's a snake-like thing to clean out the S-bend at the top. That's by far the most important part of a baritone to dry, as moisture concentrates there. (drain the moisture first with the drainage key on the sax of course, and swab out the neck like any sax).

[@Kassiku]

FYI, He posted a video on how to clean a bari sax 🤗

[@Deeznuts-gm2um]

Now I asume your referring to a “miniature tuba” type. I just disassembled mine and soak it in a LUKE WARM water with dish soap. Once done wipe down and polish with cloth. Perform your normal cleaning routing with a cleaning kit(oil, tuning slide, spit etc

[@johnsonmapko]

@@Deeznuts-gm2um I assume the person is asking about cleaning a baritone sax. It's notoriously difficult to clean because of the thin loop at the top. Thankfully @BetterSax has a video on how to clean a bari: kzbin.info/www/bejne/onfQfqmVpZ6Nb80

[@matsmanteatern698]

Nowadays I do exactly as in you’re video...3 more tips: 1. I use the same B&G svabs they are great. But I have two for the body and just svab two times, one time with each svab. Because the first one get’s pretty wet I have nr2 wich is dry. 2. I use a little spray bottle with anti-bacteria something for the mouthpiece, just spray some before the svab and the mp’s get really clean. It’s easier to clean left and right outside close to the tip of the mouthpiece. Places wich get nasty after some practice...3. B&G svabs are easy to wash! They become like new again. KeyLeaves are great and a rumor told me that a new type for the left palm keys are soon coming out..

[@KeyLeaves]

No rumor. The Key Leaves Vent Vine is available now to vent open all all the high sax keys from high D up. It extends pad life, keeps the upper half of your sax cleaner and reduces tone hole corrosion.

[@ronsmith1693]

Hi Jay. Do you ever wash your swabs? If so, do you use cold or hot water? Fortunately, I saw your videos early in my learning and have followed all of your cleaning ideas. Thanks

[@bettersax]

You can just put those in the washing machine with the laundry...

[@itisnottaken4444]

Sometimes I'll just sink wash it in lukewarm water and let it hand outside and air dry

[@paolopicchi7642]

Hi jay, I do all the things you suggest in the video, except I remove the extra saliva from ALL the keys of the instrument using cigarette papers, they work incredibly well! I didn't know about Key Leaves, I think I'll try them. Moreover, I keep closed the low C, B, Bb keys of the sax when I put it in the case, in order to avoid extra-movement. As always, THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR THE VIDEO!!

[@bettersax]

Thanks Paolo. Keeping those bell keys closed may be overkill.

[@ericleija9287]

I usually just eat a ton of yogurt, play my sax, then just throw it in the case.

[@carrielam2187]

Lmao, something similar happened to me. So me, being the curios sax player I am, asked to borrow a friends trombome so I could try it after practicing a bit on the p bone. Luckily for me, my friend the trombone owner, was eating green gummy bears before giving it to me and it covered the mouthpiece thingymajigy

[@scopolamin1]

You've created new life 🧬

[@LeszekN]

Great video, as always 😊👍

[@thomas_vk]

informative and fun to watch (like all tutorials on this channel)

[@thelongs3967]

Liked the info on cleaning maintenance. I would however add that not only should the instrument be cleaned with the swabs but the swabs should be cleaned from time to time as well. I have been swabbing for the 3 years that I have been playing and have noticed the swabs do get dirty from use. Just a simple thorough rinse under the sink faucet with warm water seems to be adequate to get the "nasties" out of the swab.

[@bettersax]

Yes, I should have mentioned this in the video. The swabs I use can be put in the washing machine.

[@clivenazareth7069]

First Introduction to Key Leaves, I'm gonna take a look

[@joelroberts6700]

I have been using a couple old reeds to prop my keys open, works great, haven't had a pad stick since. Great tip!

[@bettersax]

That's a good idea. You'll always have a couple of old reeds lying around. Be careful that they don't press into the pad leather and leave an indentation. This would cause leaks...

[@jimlagner7601]

Buying my first wind instrument in a couple weeks and am going to use your videos as guidance…. Going with the John Paul alto sax

[@savetheamazingcakes3515]

I would totally do this every day, but, since I play band in school, I have like 2 seconds before the bell rings and I have to go.

[@HonestSaxSound-unEdited-]

Great video Jay! Level 3 without doubts! After the pad cleaner, i use paper hand-serviettes to dry all the keys, specially the closed. Then, i dry the external body and clean it with the same humeded paper, and the same with the tudel and Mp. This whole process take me 50' and to dry only, takes me 30 minutes (less cleaning)... but i do mostly complete service all the times after playing or perform... i know, it's a little bit heavy and tiring, but is it worth it. P.d. this key leaves are very interesting. Thanks!

[@eduardiv.9429]

Very useful video. I really love playing the saxophone.

[@SugarBushBoys]

In addition to cleaning my sax after a gig, when I get home I leave the case open over night so the horn and case dry out completely. I never have pad or odor issues.

[@马锐-v7q]

Very useful

[@franklawrence9902]

One thing to note, only covered tangentially by some of the comments so far, but the purpose of this exercise is to minimize bacteria buildup. But by using the same cloth daily, one ends up wiping the new bacteria with the cloth already full of previous bacteria. Inside and outside. Would seem that periodic sanitizing of the swab, if not every other day, might be in order. Perhaps buy two and alternate swabbing and sanitizing days. Dishwasher experts recommend vinegar, since bleach rots stainless steel. Don't know if it bothers brass or silver or lacquer, but certainly, I'd prefer a vinegar wipe to bleach or ammonia on my mouthpiece, or any part I'll breathe from.

[@bettersax]

Or just throw the swabs in the washing machine with the laundry...

[@ryanfoong8878]

Hey Jay, loving your videos! How often do you recommend washing your swabs?

[@graemeelliott4147]

I always use silk pull-throughs on my horns. Silk is much more efficient at soaking up moisture and you only need one swab for each horn to do body, crook and mouthpiece. Mine are made by Hodge. Occasionally I spray the swab with an antibacterial solution to swab the internals. Reeds and reed cases get a similar treatment. I've been propping my normally closed pads open for years now just by using pieces of laminated card. No need for fancy key leaves. My 2005 Reference horns are all on their original pads. One other thing I do is dope all my pads once a year with Runyon Pad Dope to keep them supple.

[@kscotthume]

Jay ... I have used Key Leaves on both my saxes from the beginning. Thought it was logical, and the keys definitely do not stick. The only thing I have wondered about is whether propping open the keys reduces spring life. Thoughts?

[@KeyLeaves]

Great question! Key Leaves products are safe for sax springs. Spring steel has a fantastic memory that makes it perfect for decades of use. We conducted a scientifically controlled year-long field test of this product, plus did numerous tests with pros and repair techs. In all that testing there was zero reports of lost action or spring tension. Check out the /PROOF section of our website and the /ARTISTS section to see a few of the techs and pros who recommend Key Leaves.

[@bettersax]

No. Think about it, all the springs are under tension all the time

[@RulonBrown]

No. Spring steel has a fantastic memory that makes it perfect for decades of use. A scientifically controlled year-long field test of this Key Leaves product was done, plus numerous tests with pros and repair techs. In all that testing there were zero reports of lost action or spring tension problems. It's on the if you check out the PROOF section. Plus, many of the most prestigious sax pro shops in the world are using and recommending this product.

[@SteuSax666]

Useful video, Jay, you are clear and you have a special sense of humor...very British. I like it! And what about the smoker players? ...and what about those who are smoking WHILE they are playing sax? Those instruments are often smelling like a full ashtray.

[@bettersax]

Yeah the smokers have to visit the repair shop the most often...

[@toddwesslowski8532]

Great advice I'm learning

[@polarnice]

I love your videos, saved me so much and made me perform much better

[@arthurschwieger82]

I wish I had known about keeping my horn clean with I first started out. Nobody every told me this stuff and the horn went to bed with who knows what in it. Needless to say, It only took a couple years and it need to be re-padded again (I had it worked over when I first got it as it was old and needed some TLC). Since I have learned how to better car for my horn, not new pads and with my new horn (20 years this year), all pads are original. The only thing I have needed to have replaced is the cork for the mouthpiece when that decided to just fall off after 15 or so years. I know you do not like pad savers, I do use one in my horn. I use it after the swab as kind of a cleaning rod. I push it in and out a few times and twist it a little while doing that. My hope is that is getting some of that extra stuff out of the chimneys. I also leave my case open for a day or so when I can to let things air/dry out.

[@debrakushner2009]

Three years into this and we had no idea it had to be cleaned daily 🤦🏻‍♀️ thanks!!

[@patrickg2637]

I have been swabbing my horn since high school. I am generally the last person out of the rehearsal room. I have had one repad of my entire horn in almost 60 years of playing.

[@bettersax]

That is what swabbing can do. 👍🏼

[@jimmyb1133]

After I eat lunch or dinner, I brush my teeth before every practice session and after every practice session I swab out the horn, neck and mouthpiece even if I intend on returning to my practice time later ..... It's well worth a few minutes of my effort ....

[@KeyLeaves]

That is savvy sax hygiene.

[@hjojo1]

Saucy

[@pinkney928]

I once got a saxophone from this music store and the inside of it was brown nish I know that I wasn't supposed to but I had to I sprayed some lysol on the swab and pulled it through a few times until it was cleared of the brown goop that was in it and yes I brought a knew swab

[@MrMightySunny]

I don't have saxophone didn't even seen it in real. But I addicted to saxophone instrument after a guy played saxophone before long pipes. That trigger me to have one in the near future. I watch your videos why I don't know . Lot of information about saxophone that will the answer. Anyways Thanks for all the efforts you put in Sir. In the future these videos might be helpful to me. 😀

[@RoseCadenza]

I have a swab that pass throught the body, neck, and mouthpiece. It's really nice. :D

[@KeyLeaves]

Hodge silk is one of our favs for that very reason. Pulls all the way through the neck too. Even on tenor.

[@RoseCadenza]

@@KeyLeaves Oh yes! I use the hodge silk swab. It's amazing! It really does the job. :D

[@I_EatSpines]

Twice a year I like to completely take apart my saxes and clean them using COLD water. I clean the main body with a very soft brush then dry everything with a shop towel before cleaning the keys with cold water but avoiding the pads. After everything is all clean, I like to oil all of my stacks and keys before making sure everything is working perfectly.

[@jviss07]

It would have been cool if your BetterSax Ultimate Sax Swab Kit was available at Sweetwater, I would have ordered it! I just purchased the Better Sax alto sax. Should have it Thursday.

[@bettersax]

It will be at Sweetwater soon. What is a Good Sax alto?

[@jviss07]

@sax Whoops, brain fart, I meant Better Sax alto sax. ha, ha. Fixed it.

[@solomonklaasen1515]

Thank you for sharing this valuable info..

[@bettersax]

Glad it was helpful!

[@anttoekneeoreo9586]

I don’t own a saxophone but always wanted one since middle school. I played the baritone (euphonium) in band, but I’ve always wanted to play the sax instead. I’m looking forward to buy one in the future.

[@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823]

I got a Japanese made Yamaha YAS-23 on Ebay for not too much. Some pros tour with them, i think i heard.