I just got my first whistles, and I’m loving them!
But, now I’m wondering how, exactly, how do I keep them clean?
Now my whistles are a couple Feadogs and a Generation; and I understand that with some hot water I COULD take the mouthpieces off, and clean them that way. But, I’d much rather leave them in place for the time being(I’d rather not accidentally ruin one in the process of cleaning it, lol). Does anyone have ideas on how I could clean them?
Also, I’ve found that blowing hard through it with my mouth covered by a piece of cloth seems to get rid of any condensing spit(in the fipple, at least); does this sound like a good idea?
For plastic and brass, soaking in hot soapy water then hand drying is what I do.
Hot water and a little detergent or a dip in whiskey. Feadogs and Generations are fairly bulletproof, so don’t worry too much. Paint thinner and gasoline are to be avoided. Even if the glue comes loose, it’ OK. Cover the window with your finger and blow hard to clear condensation. It’s faster and easier. If you’re getting actual saliva in there, you’re blowing too juicy. A very small cleaning swab is helpful if you get a lot of condensation in the body. Shaking it to send drops flying will not win you any friends, so don’t try that.
In 20 some years of playing, I don’t think I’ve EVER had to clean a whistle. Wipe the head on my pants leg once in a while maybe… it simply doesn’t seem to be an issue.
But Paul, you have at least one new (very fine!) whistle to play every day. How could you get one dirty?? 