How to Clean Spit Out of an Ocarina?

The ocarina, with its enchanting melodies, is a captivating instrument that has the power to transport us to distant lands and evoke deep emotions.

Yet, while playing this magical instrument, it’s not uncommon for a bit of unwanted moisture to accumulate.

Yes, we’re talking about spit in the ocarina – a challenge that all ocarina players face at some point.

But fear not, for in this guide, we will unravel the secrets of keeping your ocarina clean and spit-free, ensuring it sings beautifully every time you play.

Preparing for cleaning

Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s get everything ready.

Gather your cleaning essentials

Cleaning an ocarina requires the right tools and materials. We’ll walk you through what you need and why each item is essential. After all, a well-prepared musician is a successful musician.

When you’re dealing with an ocarina, it’s crucial to have the right tools at your disposal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Soft Cleaning Cloth: A gentle touch is key, and a soft cloth will prevent scratches or damage to your ocarina’s surface.
• Pipe Cleaners: These slender, flexible tools are perfect for reaching into narrow passages and removing debris.
• Mild Dish Soap: A small amount of dish soap diluted in warm water is safe for cleaning your ocarina.
• Cleaning Rod or Stick: If your ocarina comes with a cleaning rod, it can be handy for reaching deep into the instrument.

Understanding the Ocarina’s Anatomy

Before we start cleaning, let’s familiarize ourselves with the ocarina‘s structure and the location of the spit chamber. Knowing what you’re dealing with is half the battle.

The ocarina is a fascinating wind instrument with a unique design. To clean it effectively, you should understand its anatomy. Here are the key parts:

• Body: This is the main part of the ocarina that contains the finger holes and sound chamber.
• Mouthpiece: The mouthpiece is where you blow air into the ocarina to create sound.
• Spit Chamber: The spit chamber is an internal cavity that collects moisture, also known as spit, during playing.
• Chamber Lid: Some ocarinas have a chamber lid that covers the spit chamber.

Knowing the names and locations of these components will be helpful as we proceed with the cleaning process.

The cleaning process

Now that we’re well-prepared and knowledgeable about the ocarina’s anatomy, let’s dive into the cleaning process.

Gently disassemble your Ocarina

Taking apart your ocarina is the first step in getting to the spit chamber. We’ll show you how to do it without causing any harm to your beloved instrument.

Gently disassembling your ocarina allows you to access its internal components, including the spit chamber. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Prepare a Soft Surface: Lay down a soft cloth or towel to protect your ocarina from any accidental drops or scratches during disassembly.
• Remove the Mouthpiece: Carefully unscrew or detach the mouthpiece of your ocarina. Set it aside in a safe place.
• Remove the Chamber Lid: If your ocarina has a chamber lid, gently remove it to expose the chamber itself.
• Inspect the Interior: Take a moment to inspect the interior of your ocarina. This will help you identify the location of the spit chamber, which may vary depending on the ocarina’s design.

Rinse the spit chamber

Now that you’ve located the spit chamber, it’s time to give it a good rinse to remove any accumulated moisture.

Rinsing the spit chamber is a straightforward process:

• Prepare Warm, Soapy Water: Fill a small container with warm water and add a few drops of mild dish soap. Mix until it forms a gentle soapy solution.
• Dip a Pipe Cleaner: Dip a pipe cleaner or a similar flexible tool into the soapy water. Ensure it’s moist but not dripping wet.
• Clean the Spit Chamber: Carefully insert the pipe cleaner into the spit chamber, reaching as far as possible without forcing it. Gently swab the inside of the chamber, moving the pipe cleaner back and forth to dislodge any spit or residue.
• Rinse Thoroughly: After cleaning, rinse the spit chamber with clean, warm water to remove any soap residue.
• Dry Completely: Ensure that the spit chamber is completely dry before reassembling your ocarina. You can use a dry pipe cleaner or a soft cloth to remove any remaining moisture.

Reassemble your Ocarina

With the spit chamber clean and dry, it’s time to put your ocarina back together. We’ll guide you through the reassembly process to ensure everything is in its rightful place.

Reassembling your ocarina requires a delicate touch to avoid damaging any components. Here’s how to do it:

• Replace the Chamber Lid: If your ocarina has a chamber lid, carefully position it back in place.
• Reattach the Mouthpiece: Gently screw or attach the mouthpiece back onto the ocarina. Ensure it is securely fastened but not overtightened.
• Inspect for Proper Alignment: Double-check that all parts are correctly aligned and in their proper positions. Your ocarina should look as it did before disassembly.

A final touch

Before you’re ready to play your freshly cleaned ocarina, there’s one more step to consider for maintaining its hygiene and preventing future spit buildup.

Preventive Measures

To minimize spit accumulation in the future, consider the following preventive measures:

Use a Mouthpiece Cover: Invest in a mouthpiece cover for your ocarina. This accessory can help keep saliva away from the interior and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

Clean After Each Use: Make it a habit to clean your ocarina after each use. Even a quick swab of the mouthpiece can go a long way in preventing spit buildup.

Avoid Eating or Drinking While Playing: To minimize saliva production, avoid eating or drinking while playing your ocarina.

Conclusion

Your ocarina is more than just a musical instrument; it’s a gateway to a world of enchanting melodies and emotions. Keeping it clean and spit-free is essential to ensure that its music remains as beautiful as ever.

By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can confidently maintain your ocarina’s hygiene and sound quality, ensuring that every note you play resonates with clarity and magic.

Cleaning your ocarina’s spit chamber may seem like a small task, but it has a significant impact on your playing experience. It ensures that your ocarina’s sound remains pure and free from unwanted moisture-induced distortions.

FAQs

FAQ 1: Is it necessary to clean the spit chamber every time I play my ocarina?

Answer: While it’s not essential to clean the spit chamber after every play session, it’s a good practice to do so regularly. Cleaning it prevents the accumulation of moisture and maintains the ocarina’s sound quality. If you play your ocarina frequently, consider cleaning it after a few sessions or whenever you notice moisture buildup.

FAQ 2: Can I use other cleaning solutions besides mild dish soap?

Answer: It’s best to stick with mild dish soap and warm water for cleaning the spit chamber. Avoid harsh chemicals or strong cleaning agents as they may damage the ocarina’s surface. Using the recommended solution ensures a safe and effective cleaning process.

FAQ 3: How can I prevent spit buildup in the first place?

Answer: To minimize spit accumulation, consider using a mouthpiece cover. This accessory acts as a barrier, keeping saliva away from the interior of the ocarina. Additionally, avoid eating or drinking while playing to reduce saliva production. Regularly cleaning the mouthpiece after use can also help prevent future buildup.

FAQ 4: Can I clean my ocarina with the chamber lid attached?

Answer: It’s advisable to remove the chamber lid while cleaning the ocarina. This allows for better access to the spit chamber and ensures a thorough cleaning. After cleaning and ensuring the spit chamber is dry, you can reattach the chamber lid securely.

FAQ 5: What should I do if I accidentally drop my ocarina while disassembling it for cleaning?

Answer: Accidents happen, but it’s essential to handle your ocarina with care. If you accidentally drop it, carefully inspect the instrument for any visible damage. If you notice any cracks, chips, or significant damage, it’s best to consult a professional ocarina repair specialist. Minor dings or scratches may not affect playability but should still be inspected for peace of mind.