Drums are not just musical instruments; they are the heartbeat of a band. But over time, they can get dirty from sweat, dust, and general wear and tear. A clean drum kit not only looks better but also sounds better. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your drums to keep them in top-notch condition.
Preparation
Before you start cleaning, gather all the necessary supplies. You’ll need a microfiber cloth, warm water, a small amount of mild dish soap (for tough stains), drum polish (for lacquered finishes), a soft brush (like a toothbrush) for hard-to-reach areas, and a lubricant for the hardware. Make sure you have a clean, well-lit workspace to avoid losing any small parts.
Disassembling the Drums
Removing the Drumheads
Start by loosening the tension rods on the drumheads. Use a drum key to turn the rods counterclockwise until the heads are loose enough to remove. Lift off the top and bottom drumheads carefully. If they’re stuck, gently pry them loose with a flathead screwdriver, being careful not to damage the drum shell or the head.
Taking off the Rims
Once the drumheads are removed, remove the rims. The rims are usually held in place by the tension rods. Unscrew the tension rods completely and set them aside. Lift off the rims and place them with the drumheads.
Separating the Hardware
Next, remove all the hardware from the drum shells. This includes the lugs (the metal pieces that hold the tension rods), the hoops, and any other attachments. Use a screwdriver or an Allen wrench to remove the screws or bolts. Label or group the hardware together so you know which piece goes where when it’s time to reassemble.
Cleaning the Drum Shells
For Lacquered Finishes
If your drums have a lacquered finish, start by wiping down the shell with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any loose dust. Then, dampen the cloth with a small amount of warm water. Add a tiny drop of mild dish soap if there are stubborn stains. Gently wipe the shell in a circular motion, being careful not to soak the wood. If the finish is looking dull, you can use a small amount of drum polish. Apply the polish to the cloth and buff the shell until it shines.
For Wrapped Shells
For wrapped drums, avoid using anything too abrasive, as it can scratch the wrap. Start with a dry microfiber cloth to remove dust. If there are stains, use a damp cloth with a very small amount of soap. Wipe gently and avoid scrubbing too hard. Pay attention to the edges and seams where dirt can accumulate. Use a soft brush to clean these areas if needed.
Cleaning the Interior
Don’t forget to clean the inside of the drum shells. Dust and debris can build up inside, affecting the sound. Use a dry microfiber cloth or a soft brush to remove any dirt. If there’s a lot of buildup, you can use a damp cloth, but make sure to dry the interior thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew growth.
Cleaning the Drumheads
Inspection
Before cleaning, inspect the drumheads for any signs of damage. If the heads are pitted, dented, or stretched beyond repair, it’s time to replace them. If they’re still in good condition, you can clean them.
Cleaning Process
Take a damp microfiber cloth and gently wipe down the drumheads. Start from the center and work your way out in a circular motion. Avoid using harsh chemicals or rough scrubbing, as this can damage the heads. If there are stubborn stains, you can use a small amount of mild soap on the cloth. After cleaning, let the heads air dry completely before reinstalling them.
Cleaning the Hardware
Tension Rods and Lugs
Wipe down the tension rods and lugs with a dry cloth to remove any dirt or rust. If there’s rust, you can soak the parts in vinegar for a few hours. After soaking, scrub them with a soft brush to remove the rust. Dry the parts thoroughly and apply a small drop of lubricant to each lug. This will make it easier to adjust the tension on the drumheads later.
Hoops and Other Attachments
Clean the hoops and other hardware attachments in the same way. Use a cloth to wipe away dirt and rust. If there are painted parts, be careful not to scratch the paint. You can use a small amount of metal polish to make the hardware shine.
Cleaning the Cymbals
General Cleaning
Cymbals can get dirty from sweat, fingerprints, and dirt. For light cleaning, use a damp microfiber cloth. Wipe down the cymbal surface gently. If there’s more stubborn grime, you can use a tiny amount of cymbal polish. Apply the polish to the cloth and buff the cymbal. Avoid using household cleaners, as they can strip the coating and damage the sound of the cymbal.
Avoiding Damage
Be very careful when cleaning cymbals. Don’t scrub too hard, as this can damage the surface. Also, make sure to dry the cymbals thoroughly after cleaning to prevent rust. If you notice any cracks or chips in the cymbal, it may be time to replace it.
Reassembling the Drums
Putting the Hardware Back
Start by attaching the lugs and other hardware back onto the drum shells. Make sure the screws or bolts are tightened securely. Then, place the rims back onto the drums and insert the tension rods. Hand-tighten the tension rods for now.
Installing the Drumheads
Put the bottom drumhead onto the drum shell. Make sure it’s centered. Then, place the top drumhead on. Start tightening the tension rods evenly, a little at a time. Use a drum key to turn the rods clockwise. Keep adjusting the tension until the drumhead is tight and produces a good sound. You can use a tuning app or a drum tuner to help you get the right tension.
Attaching the Cymbals
Finally, attach the cymbals back onto the drum stand. Make sure they’re positioned correctly and tightened securely.
Tuning the Drums
After reassembling, it’s important to tune the drums. Use a tuning app or a drum tuner to set the correct pitch for each drum. Start with the bass drum and work your way up to the toms and snare. Adjust the tension on the drumheads until you get the desired sound. Remember, a well-tuned drum kit sounds much better than an out-of-tune one.
Conclusion
Cleaning your drums may seem like a time-consuming task, but it’s well worth the effort. A clean drum kit not only looks better but also sounds better. By following these steps, you can keep your drums in top condition for years to come. Regular cleaning and maintenance will also help extend the lifespan of your drums and ensure that they continue to perform at their best. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and give your drums the clean they deserve.
Related Topics:
- Ex-DREAM THEATER Drummer MIKE MANGINI Shares Drum-Cam Playthrough Video for MONOLITH’s First Single
- Kodo Brings the Powerful Art of Japanese Taiko Drumming to New Jersey with ‘Warabe’ Performance
- Audiomodern Launches Playbeat 4: AI-Powered Drum Designer with Endless Pattern Possibilities
