Oiling the Valves

• 1). Hold the trumpet in its normal playing position.
  
  
• 2). Unscrew the cap. Lift the valve halfway up. Don't try to remove it all the way. Add five drops of oil to the surface of the valve. Rotate the valve to spread and work the oil into the valve surface.
  
  
• 3). Gently push the valve back into the casing. Turn the valve until it clicks into place. Test the valves.
  
  

Cleaning the Valves

• 1). Remove the valves from the trumpet. Take off the felt and cork bit on the valve.
  
  
• 2). Wipe the valves with a lint-free cloth to remove surface dirt and grime. Clean the valves with soap and warm water. Dry the valves with a towel. Allow them to complete air-dry. Replace the felt and cork tips. Re-oil the valves.
  
  
• 3). Remove and lubricate the slides. The slides also need routine lubrication. Saliva deposits build up on the slides and make them stick. Lubricate the slow-moving slides with Selmer Tuning Slide grease or Cork Grease. Oil the fast-moving slides, usually the 1st and 3rd slide valves on most trumpets. Grease prevents the fast sliding from moving as fast as they should.
  
  
• 4). Clean the trumpet in warm water. Submerge the trumpet in warm water and wipe it clean with a soft cloth. Dry the trumpet with a towel and allow it to completely air-dry.
  
  
• 5). Reassemble the trumpet.