Great drum handling techniques for the care of
your drum set

Drum handling is the most important step in preserving the life of
your drumset. There's nothing better than having a drum kit that
is aesthetically pleasing to the eyes as well as delivering great
tones.

It does not matter how old or new the drums may be. An old and
tired drumkit can practically look brand new with some minor
changes. Let's not forget the tonal qualities that can be enhanced
with a few adjustments.

Getting that clean look

Starting with the drum set, there are things that can be
accomplished in getting that clean look. First, depending on how
new the drums are, it may be just a matter of dusting off the drums
with a soft cloth. For a more thorough cleaning, clean all chrome
and drum shells with a mild solution of soapy water and rub until
clean. To give them luster, wipe with a mild polish for a clean
shine available at a local hardware store.

Cymbals can be cleaned with a cymbal polish-cleaner or glass
cleaner and cloth. After cleaning, wipe with a cymbal protector
to repel fingerprints and sweat. Use a mild solution of the soapy
water also for the drum hardware and cymbal stands. Occasionally
lubricate the bass drum and high-hat pedals to alleviate any
squeaking noises.

Tonal qualities

To achieve great tonal qualities, check both top and bottom drum
heads or batter heads, for indentations from drum sticks and cracks
from over tightening. Check to see if the drum head is right for the
style of music to be played and tuned appropriately. There are
many choices of heads to choose from.

Storage and transportation

Storage and transportation of drums is probably the most crucial
aspect of protecting the instruments. Exposure to extreme cold or
heat can damage the drum shell. Drum cases provide great
protection from these elements. Though drum cases can be
expensive, depending on the brand and quantity, it's worth the
money spent. If cost is an issue, covering the drumkit with thick and
heavy blankets will work well. The drum set can receive unwanted
dents and scratches if not properly handled. Again, drum cases
provide the best protection though blankets will do.

Care must be taken with cymbals and cymbal stands. For cymbals,
there are choices of hard and soft cases. The hard case made of
durable plastic material is suited best for protection. The soft case
is great but has less absorption to shocks. There are cymbal stand
cases available but do not provide much protection from scratches.

A way to get around this, either with a cymbal stand case or
duffle/sports bag, is to separate each piece of cymbal and drum
hardware from each other with carpet pieces, blanket, or any
lightweight material that will prevent metal to metal contact.

Take pride

Take pride in the ownership of your drumkit by giving it the care
and protection that it needs. Everything from drum sticks to drum
cases, they all must be maintained. These simple techniques are
what every drummer should know to prolong the life of their drum
kit and be able to enjoy many hours of drumming.

About the author:

Thaddeus W Johnson is a writer, professional drummer,
and drum teacher who enjoys providing tips and valuable
information for online shoppers of drum related products
and topics. http://www.megadrumsets.com

Drum sets, drum accessories, drum parts:
Yamaha, Gretsch, Ludwig, Pearl, Tama, DW

Great drum handling techniques for the care of your drum set

Getting that clean look

Great drum handling techniques for the care of
your drum set