How Much Does It Cost to Clean a Clarinet?

Clean clarinet being played, demonstrating the results of professional clarinet cleaning and maintenance

A clean clarinet doesn’t just look better — it plays better, seals better, and lasts longer. Over time, moisture, dust, pad residue and even small food particles can build up inside the bore and tone holes. This leads to sticky pads, air leaks, sluggish keywork and dull tone. At Woodwind London, one of the most common questions we receive is:
“How much does it cost to clean a clarinet?”

The answer depends on the level of cleaning required and the condition of your instrument. Here’s a clear breakdown.

1. Light Clarinet Clean: from £85

During our general light cleaning and repair work, we typically carry out a basic clean of the instrument in areas accessed when keys are removed. Please note that this does not constitute a full strip-down clean. The light clean includes:

  • Wiping tone holes

  • Moisture removal

  • Light pad drying

  • Removing surface residue

  • Removing old oil and cleaning rods (on affected keys)

This is ideal for quick maintenance between services or when pads begin to feel slightly sticky.

2. Full Clarinet Clean & Service: from £120-£150

This is the most popular option for players who want their instrument returned to peak condition. It may include:

  • Full internal and external clean

  • Keywork clean and oil

  • Pad checks and minor adjustments

  • Light polishing

  • Reseating any leaking pads

A full clean is often enough to transform the tone and response of an ageing or school clarinet.

Why choose Woodwind London?

Our Muswell Hill workshop provides affordable, transparent pricing, with no unnecessary upselling. We clean and service clarinets for students, teachers and advanced players, always prioritising longevity, reliability and excellent playability.

If your clarinet feels sticky, dull or difficult to play, a professional clean is often all it needs.

Edward Jackman

Edward Jackman is the senior technician at the woodwind london workshop, specialising in Saxophone repairs, he is also in charge of procurement for new tools and repair consumables.

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