How to maintain your instrument in 5 steps

How to maintain your instrument in 5 simple steps

Taking care of your musical instrument is much more than just a technical gesture: it's a way of respecting your passion and ensuring optimal sound quality over time. Whether you play the oud , the derbouka , the qanûn or even a ukulele , a few simple steps are enough to preserve its beauty and sound. Here are our 5 easy-to-follow tips for pampering your musical companion!

⭐ 1. Clean it regularly (but always gently)

A well-maintained instrument starts with frequent cleaning. Every time you play, fingerprints, sweat, or dust can accumulate. Use a soft cloth , ideally microfiber, to gently wipe all surfaces. If you're playing a stringed instrument like the oud , also gently go over the strings and neck.

⚠️ Caution : Avoid using conventional household products. Some solvents can damage the varnish or dry out the wood. If you want to go further, you can use a special wood oil, but only if it's suitable for your instrument, and only in very small quantities.

⭐ 2. Protect it from humidity and temperature fluctuations

Musical instruments, especially wooden ones like the oud or qanûn, are very sensitive to their environment. Excessive humidity can cause the wood to swell or the strings to loosen, while excessive heat can cause parts to crack.
Try as much as possible to store your instrument in a room with a stable temperature , away from radiators, windows in direct sunlight or the bathroom after showering 😅. And if you have to transport it, use a padded cover or a hard case to protect it from shocks... and bad weather!

⭐ 3. Tune it in regularly, with patience

A well-tuned instrument doesn't just sound better; it also lasts longer. By maintaining stable tension on the strings (or the head, in the case of percussion instruments), you avoid unnecessary mechanical stress that can weaken the instrument.

Use a reliable electronic tuner or mobile app, and take the time to gently turn the tuning pegs or machine heads. If you feel any unusual resistance, don't force it! It's better to call a luthier than risk breaking it.

⭐ 4. Replace the strings or skin when necessary

We all tend to want to "pull a little more" on our strings... but be careful: a worn string no longer sounds as it should, becomes unpleasant to play, and can even damage your instrument if it breaks at the wrong time.
On an oud , for example, strings that are too old can damage the bridge or tuning pins. On a derbuka, a loose or damaged head produces a dull, soulless sound. Don't wait until the last minute : change your strings or head as soon as you feel a loss of clarity or an unusual sensation under your fingers.

That's good, at Cham Music we have a wide range of strings of all kinds for all types of instruments.

⭐ 5. Always put it away after use (even if it's tempting to leave it outside)

We know how beautiful this instrument can be. And sometimes we want to leave it enthroned in the living room... But to prolong its lifespan, it's best to put it away after each use.
Dust, accidental knocks, curious children, or even pets can all pose a real threat. A suitable cover or a protected wall mount are ideal solutions for combining aesthetics and safety .
And then, there's also a little pleasure in carefully taking out your instrument for each session, right?

🎁 Bonus: the right accessories make all the difference

At Cham Music , we offer covers , strings , tuners , and protections specially selected for your oriental instruments. Don't hesitate to take a look at our selection to complete your daily maintenance!

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