Just a quick question here, is it a good idea to spray a light wood cleaner/polish on the chanter? Similiar to the stuff acoustic guitars use over the string area of the neck? It can coat the chanter, and maybe preserve it as well…just wondering…thanks…
Some people use light almond oil or Neets foot oil but it might affect to colour, particularly boxwood, cocobolo, rosewood, etc. So it’s best to ask the maker of the chanter.
I am always concerned with wood drying out and cracking so I apply woodwind bore oil inside and out every couple months.
It will darken the finish slightly over time, but it looks nice.
Tim
Thanks Tim. Where do you find that?
I would not generally recommend woodwind bore oil in a dry-blown instrument. It depends a bit on the timber, and of course the maker’s recommendations. Some makers specifically discourage the use of oils of any kind on the inside of an ebony bore, for instance. In extremely arid climates it may help prevent cracking, but maintaining a more reasonable humidity is probably wiser.
More porous woods such as fruitwoods may benefit from the application of a suitable oil - perhaps so-called “unboiled” linseed oil (not “boiled” linseed oil, which is likely to lead to build-up).
Bore Oil is available from any Bagpipe supply, some general music stores.
There are assorted mixtures depending on who makes it.
I have kept assorted ebony parts oiled without any problems.
I would rather have an oiled piece of wood over something that may crack.
My climate goes from high humidity (now) to bone dry in the dead of winter.
But following the instructions from the maker is always a good idea.
Tim
the maker of my chanter insists that the best oil to use is “nose oil” 
Speaking of lube.. Is there anything one is suppose to do to keep the key hinges working freely. I would think grime and dirt would get in between the block and pins etc. Little drop of oil maybe. Or nothing.
Johnnie