I have a PVC whistle and I want to clean it. What’s the correct way to do it? I’m feared of damage it.
Since I’m asking this, if you also can tell me how do I clean other material whistles (like brass or nickel) I’d be very thankful as well.
Thanks in advance!
Bothrops
a long time ago I did post with the same questions. I recommend to you that you look for it.
But, in general according to the experts of the forum nothing is needed cleaning for whistles in general almost. Perhaps from time to time to clean to the tube with a little cotton and water. But by the others much is not needed clean.
There’s not a lot that can ruin the PVC outside of excessive heat or chemicals that could possibly discolor it. Plain soap and water should do the trick just fine. I use things like cotton swabs and dental floss to clean the intricate pieces of the headjoint. Also, don’t use anything that’s too abraisive that will scratch. Be careful what you put in the windway that could potentially scratch it. Pipecleaners can be dangerous becase they have the wires in the ends of them. Pieces of cardstock or folded paper are strong and abraisive enough to get into the windway without scratching.
As for brass and nickel, I usually just take (a little) soap and water to them as well. Make sure to swab out any leftover water though. If you have some brass that’s really nasty or has something caked on that soap and water won’t take off then you can use brasso but use it in small amounts; it can leave you with a greasy feeling whistle if you over-do it.
If you’re dealing with a hand-made whistle then it’s always best to talk to the maker about the best care for the whistle. Be careful cleaning tuning slides and such; if you wipe all of the grease away, don’t put it back together without re-greasing it.
I would also agree with straycat. Plain mild dish soap followed by a good rinsing works just fine. Just be sure to let it dry out well before putting in a closed container. The folded paper idea for the windway works real well also.
I find it entertaining that the subject of whistle cleaning is a matter of some good natured controversy on this board. It is true that that your typical brass tube/plastic fipple whistle does not
require cleaning on a regular basis. However, I don’t feel that it does any harm to them and in fact could, in a small way help them play better more consistantly by keeping the airway walls free of “gunk” 
. Debris in the airway could, if allowed to build up, cause turbulence in the smooth flow of air thru there, possibly affecting the sound.
Thanks for the answers guys!! 