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Understanding the Trombone as an Investment

Purchasing a trombone for a young player, represents a significant financial commitment for many parents. On the other hand, professional models can cost several thousand dollars. Any way you look at it a trombone is designed to last a lifetime—but only if it is cared for properly.

Neglect leads to:

• Slide damage and alignment issues

• Corrosion inside the instrument

• Frozen tuning slides

• Dents

• Expensive repair bills

A well-maintained trombone not only plays better, but also holds its resale or trade-in value should the student upgrade later.

Slide Care and Maintenance

The slide is the heart of the trombone. If it doesn’t move freely, tone, intonation, and technique all suffer.

Daily Slide Care Habits

• Wipe the inner slide stockings after playing

• Apply the correct slide lubricant

• Lightly mist the slide with water

• Store the slide clean and dry

Choosing the Right Slide Lubricant

• Slide cream – Ponds Cold Cream

This is a product that I have been using since  I was 15. I was studying with John Coffey (Trombonist with the Boston Symphony Orchestra) when at one of my lessons he demonstrated this cream on my trombone slide. Unbelievable result! Try it! You will never use anything but it.

• Liquid slide lubricant systems – These are ok, but not a good as the Ponds Cold Cream.

Do not mix lubricant types, as this causes buildup and sluggish slide action.

Common Slide Care Mistakes

• Forcing a sticky slide

• Over-lubricating

• Ignoring dirt buildup

If the slide still feels rough after cleaning, it may need professional alignment.

Regular Cleaning and Hygiene

Internal cleaning is a critical part of trombone care and maintenance.

How Often Should You Clean Your Trombone?

• Light cleaning: every 1–2 weeks

• Full bath: How to Clean a Trombone: Give It a Bath

Trombone Cleaning Kit

An inexpensive and safe way to properly maintain and care for your trombone is to have a Trombone Cleaning Kit.

I have been playing and teaching for years now. I still use this kit.

This cleaning kit comes with:

• Casing Rod for the inner and outer slide
• Flexible Brush
• 2 Mouthpiece Brushes
• Cleaning Cloth
• Slide Grease (tuning slides only)
• Pair of Gloves

Mouthpiece Care

• Clean the mouthpiece weekly (Mouthpiece brush from cleaning kit)

• Avoid eating before playing – Major contributor to an unhealthy trombone

• Never tap the mouthpiece into the bell – Can’t say this enough!

A clean mouthpiece improves tone, airflow, and hygiene.

Moisture Management and Corrosion Prevention

Brass instruments naturally collect condensation during playing. If moisture is left inside, corrosion can develop over time.

Best practices include:

• Emptying the water key frequently – Always use a Spit Catcher by Brasstache. This is an ultra-absorbent and leakproof, multi-layered cloth pad you put on the floor. 

• Drying the slide before storage

• Avoiding prolonged moisture buildup

Proper moisture control extends the life of the instrument and prevents internal damage.

Tuning Slide and F-Attachment Care

 All tuning slides should move smoothly but stay in position.

Tuning Slide Maintenance

• Remove slides regularly

• Apply tuning slide grease (not slide cream)

• Wipe off old grease before reapplying

F-Attachment (If Applicable)

• Oil the rotor according to manufacturer recommendations

• Keep linkage clean and properly adjusted

Frozen tuning slides are one of the most common—and avoidable—repair issues.

Handling, Storage, and Transport

Many trombone accidents happen outside of rehearsal.

Safe Handling Tips

• Always use a trombone stand or case

• Never place the instrument on a chair

• Be aware of slide length when turning or walking

Case Care

• Use a sturdy, padded case

• Latch the case before lifting

• Avoid stacking heavy items on top

Proper storage habits prevent dents and alignment damage.

Temperature and Environmental Awareness

Extreme temperatures affect brass instruments.

Avoid:

• Leaving the trombone in a hot or cold car

• Sudden temperature changes

Allow the instrument to acclimate before playing to prevent slide issues and condensation problems.

Preventing Dents and Mechanical Damage

Even small dents can interfere with slide movement.

Common causes include:

• Bumping the slide

• Setting the instrument down carelessly

• Crowded rehearsal spaces

Using a slide protector and staying aware of surroundings helps prevent damage.

Teaching Students Responsibility and Good Habits

Good trombone care habits should be learned early.

Suggestions include:

• Creating a daily care routine

• Using a simple care checklist

• Encouraging parental involvement

Responsible care builds pride in ownership and supports musical growth.

Long-Term Storage and Instrument Longevity

For extended breaks:

• Clean and dry the instrument thoroughly

• Lightly grease tuning slides

• Store in a climate-controlled environment

• Check the instrument periodically

These steps prevent corrosion and slide issues during long-term storage.

Common Trombone Care Mistakes to Avoid

Below are seven mistakes or habits young players get into without knowing it. If not corrected, these become regular routines and you will soon be very good at them.

• Do not bang the mouthpiece in – It Will Get Stuck!
• Do not empty the water key with your foot. Use your hand.
• Mixing slide lubricants
• Forcing stuck slides
• Skipping professional cleanings
• Storing the instrument while wet
• Ignoring early warning signs

Avoiding these mistakes saves money and frustration.

Conclusion

Proper trombone care and maintenance protects both your sound and your investment. A well-maintained instrument responds better, sounds better, and lasts longer. Whether you are a student, parent, or teacher, treating the trombone with care ensures years of reliable performance and musical enjoyment.

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