Sticky flute pads

Sticky flute pads can cause the keys of your flute to remain partially closed and the notes to be unclear, fuzzy, and out of tune.

To remedy this situation, try using cigarette paper.

If you aren't a smoker (and you shouldn't be!), cigarette paper can be purchased at drug stores or Walgreen's. This type of paper works well because it is thin and absorbent.

Apply a bit of rubbing alcohol or lighter fluid on a piece of cigarette paper and blot the pad with it. Then blot the keys with dry papers until they are completely dry.

If that doesn't help, swab out the flute with a clean, slightly damp swab, followed by a clean, dry swab.

Wipe out the riser on the head joint as well and repeat the cigarette paper blotting.

Be sure to always BLOT gently. Don't rip the paper out forcefully from underneath the keys. This can tear the flute pad and you will be looking at replacing the entire pad.

It might also help to let your flute sit out in the air in a safe place, such as on top of your piano or on a flute peg. The important word here is "SAFE."

There are also powdered papers available at your local music store or on-line that can help absorb the stickiness from the pad.

If your flute keys are still sticky, it's probably time to take your flute to a repair person.

As always, preventative flute medicine goes a long way toward reducing sticky flute pads. Always wipe out your flute after playing it and before putting it away in the case. Your pads will last much longer and won't become sticky nearly so fast.

I also recommend brushing your teeth or at least rinsing your mouth before you play your flute, and wash your hands, too.

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