How To Clean Flute Pads
If your flute keys have started to feel sticky, make small popping sounds, or leave marks on the tone holes, it’s usually a sign the pads need cleaning. Dirty or damp pads can make playing frustrating — but with gentle care and the right approach, you can keep them sealing properly and extend their lifespan.
Why Flute Pads Get Sticky
Flute pads are made of soft felt covered with thin bladder or synthetic skin. Over time, moisture, dust, and residue from breath condensation collect on their surface. This can cause them to adhere to the tone holes, leading to sluggish or uneven key response. Players who eat, drink or apply lip balm before playing may also notice more buildup.
What You’ll Need
To safely clean flute pads at home, you’ll need:
Cigarette paper or pad paper (non-coated, unprinted)
A soft cloth
Optional: powder paper for stubborn stickiness
Never use alcohol wipes, cotton buds, or water directly on the pads — these can warp or damage them.
Step-by-Step: Cleaning Sticky Pads
Gently open the key and place a small piece of pad paper underneath it, between the pad and tone hole.
Lightly press the key down — don’t rub or drag — then lift it again. The paper will lift away surface moisture and residue.
Repeat if needed with a fresh part of the paper until it comes away clean.
For persistent stickiness, try a single sheet of powder paper in the same way, but avoid overuse — too much powder can cause pads to dry out.
Finally, swab your flute after every session to prevent future buildup.
When to Seek Professional Cleaning
If pads remain sticky, appear wrinkled, or start leaking air, it may be time for a professional clean and regulation. In our Muswell Hill workshop, we remove keys, clean pad seats and tone holes, and replace or reseal pads as needed — restoring full key response and tone.
Keep Your Flute Pads in Top Condition
Regularly drying your flute and cleaning the pads will prevent premature wear and help your instrument perform at its best.
If your flute pads feel sticky or look discoloured, bring it to Woodwind London for a quick inspection. Our technicians can clean, reseal or replace pads to keep your flute sounding clear, smooth, and effortless to play.
Book your flute service or pad clean today — we’ll have your instrument back to perfect playing condition in no time.
