How To Clean A Plastic Recorder

Plastic recorders are a popular instrument choice among young children and are often a requirement for grade school music classes and band programs. These recorders are inexpensive and almost impossible to break and you can clean them easily. To remove dirt, saliva, body oils and bacteria that transfer from the hands and mouth to the recorder, clean the recorder every 1 to 2 weeks with an inexpensive cleaning solution.

Step 1

Take the mouthpiece off of the plastic recorder by twisting it off of the base.

Step 2

Fill the kitchen sink with enough water to submerge the recorder, using about 2 quarts hot water and 1 squirt dish soap. Pour 1/4 cup vinegar into the water to aid with disinfection.

Step 3

Place the base and mouthpiece of the recorder in the soapy water, and let soak for 10 minutes.

Step 4

Dip a cleaning rag in the soapy water and scrub the exterior of the recorder. Also scrub the inside and outside of the mouthpiece. Use a toothpick or cotton swab to clean small holes, openings and crevices that the cloth cannot reach.

Step 5

Rinse the entire recorder with hot water and allow to fully air dry. Twist the mouthpiece back onto the recorder. It is now clean and bacteria-free.