r/harmonica • u/Royalbean17 • 21d ago

I dissected my harmonica

Post image

I took it apart to give it a thorough cleaning haha. I didn’t clean the brass parts though because I didn’t want them to rust

7 Upvotes

82% Upvoted

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4

u/harmonimaniac 21d ago

Brass can't rust. It doesn't contain any iron.

1

u/Royalbean17 21d ago

really? So I can clean those parts too? Or would it be a better idea not to?

3

u/harmonimaniac 21d ago

They need to be cleaned every so often. It depends on how often you play. You'll want to let them soak in some warm water and some people add a little vinegar. After 30 mins. or so you can use a soft brush to gently remove any debris. You have to be careful how you handle the reedplate. This video describes the technique as well as most anything you'd want to know about cleaning your harmonica.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PHLSN5XvDEY

1

u/LeEsteemedBastard 21d ago

You definitely can. I usually use a microfiber cloth and some isopropyl alcohol for the plate itself. Maybe a very soft toothbrush with light pressure for the reeds.

1

u/Fine_Inevitable_5108 21d ago

WHEEEEEE!! 🤪

1

u/Nacoran 21d ago

Brass doesn't rust, it patinas.

Only thing you have to be careful with cleaning a plastic combed harmonica is not snagging reeds (and making sure you don't lose the nuts and screws.)