How to Wash a Flute
Updated Nov 11, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through the Amazon links on this page costs you nothing extra. Full disclosure
Wash a flute by wiping each section inside and out with a soft, dry cloth, then wiping the outside with a cloth dampened with water and mild soap where the instrument allows it. Run a cleaning cloth through the tube to lift moisture, and dry each part before you put the flute back in its case.
Take apart the sections that come apart
Separate the sections of the flute that pull apart, and lay them on a clean, dry cloth so you can reach each one. A flute that comes apart in sections is easier to wipe inside and out than one you hold whole. Keep the sections in order on the cloth so they go back together the same way.
Wipe the outside with a dry cloth
Wipe the outside of each section with a soft, dry cloth, working from one end to the other. A dry cloth lifts dust and the marks left by hands without adding moisture to the wood, bamboo or plastic. Turn the cloth to a clean fold as you go so you are not rubbing the same dust back over the surface.
Run a cloth through the inside
Thread a soft cloth through the tube of each section and pull it through slowly to lift moisture from the inside. Moisture left inside the tube can mark the wood or bamboo and dull the sound, so run the cloth through after you play and again after a wash. Use a dry cloth first, and let the tube air out before you put the flute away.
Wipe the mouthpiece with water and mild soap
Wipe the mouthpiece and the outer surface with a cloth dampened with water and mild soap where the instrument allows it. Never soak a wooden or bamboo flute, and keep water out of the inside of the tube. Dry the mouthpiece and each section with a clean, dry cloth before you put the flute back together.
Dry the flute and put it away
Go over the whole flute once more with a clean, dry cloth so no dampness stays on the wood, bamboo or plastic. Check that the sections fit together as they should, then put the flute in its case and keep it away from damp and from heat. A quick wipe after each time you play keeps grime from building up between full cleans.
What you need
Indian Glance IBLAY Traditional Wooden Flute Great Sound Woodwind
A rosewood flute with 6 holes and a polished finish, with a cleaning cloth and a carrying case included for wiping and storing it.
- Case or gig bag included
- Finish: Polished
PHYSKOW C Key Dizi Bitter Bamboo Flute
A bamboo dizi flute in the key of C with a membrane, a membrane protector and glue included, plus a box and a velvet bag for storing it.
- Key: C
- Finish: Polished
Schylling Pan Flute
A plastic pan flute with a mouthpiece and pipes embossed with the note each one plays.
Royal Kurta Wooden Flute Carved Wood Fife
A carved wooden fife that plays in the key of C and measures 13 inches long.
- Key: C
- Finish: Polished
These come from our ranked list Best Mini Flute, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wash a flute with water?
A cloth dampened with water and mild soap is fine on the outside and the mouthpiece where the instrument allows it, followed by a dry cloth. Never soak a wooden or bamboo flute, and keep water out of the inside of the tube.
How often should I clean my flute?
Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after you play, and run a cloth through the tube to lift moisture from the inside. Give it a full clean when dust and grime start to build up on the outside and the mouthpiece.
What should I use to clean inside a flute?
A soft cloth pulled through the tube lifts moisture from the inside. Use a dry cloth first, and a cloth dampened with water and mild soap only where the instrument allows it, then dry the tube before you store the flute.
Ranked flutes lists
More how-to guides
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.