Handpan Care Guide: Take Care of Your Instrument

Welcome to this guide! If you’ve just acquired your very first handpan, congratulations! You’re about to embark on a unique musical and sensory adventure. At Bapst Handpan, we know that such a special instrument deserves special care, especially if you want it to keep its beautiful sound and impeccable appearance over time. Find out here how to care for your handpan with simple, effective gestures.

Regular cleaning: the key to longevity

Your handpan is made of steel, and although it’s often treated to withstand the elements, it’s still vulnerable to moisture and fingerprints, especially if you use it often. Here’s how to clean it:

  • Materials required: a soft microfiber cloth (the same type used for eyeglasses) and special handpan protective oil.
  • Routine: after each session, gently wipe your handpan to remove fingerprints and perspiration. This simple gesture prevents moisture from becoming trapped and protects your instrument from corrosion. (Get into the habit quickly, your handpan will repay you).
  • Protection: apply a small amount of oil (about once a month or according to frequency of use) to create a barrier against moisture. Make sure the oil is evenly distributed with a soft cloth, and that it doesn’t leave a greasy residue.

Tip: always keep your cloth and oil in your travel bag. That way, you’ll never forget to protect your instrument after a great musical session.

Handpan maintenance: Where and how to store it efficiently?

The handpan is a relatively fragile instrument (especially the membranes, the notes basically). It’s important to store it properly to avoid shocks and preserve its sound.

  • To be avoided: damp places (like a bathroom or basement) and prolonged exposure to the sun, which can affect the metal and deteriorate its appearance. My first handpan, a D Aegean, once in the sun (just a few minutes), the notes quickly do anything because the steel expands rapidly with heat. So watch out <3
  • A good quality protective cover is a must. A good cover protects your handpan from knocks and moisture, and keeps it dust-free. At Bapst Handpan, we offer covers specially designed for the transportation and daily protection of your instrument.

Tip: Avoid placing heavy objects or other instruments on top of your handpan, as this can alter its structure and resonance.

Taking Care of Frequencies and Sound

If you want your handpan to remain harmonious, you need to take a few precautions while playing.

  • Use the right gestures: dry or hard strokes risk damaging the notes and creating invisible micro-cracks. Instead, use gentle strokes, lightly caressing the surfaces of your instrument. (Tips: if you assume that the notes are always hot, you should barely caress them so as not to feel the heat).
  • Avoid chopsticks: tempting as they may be for exploring new sounds, even soft chopsticks may alter the tuning of your handpan (and yes…).

By adopting these simple gestures, you’ll not only prolong the life of your instrument, but also preserve its purity of sound.

Entretien Handpan

What to do in the event of an accident

Despite all the attention you give it, accidents can still happen (falls, scratches, sound bumps). But don’t panic!

  • Superficial scratches: these are often of no consequence to the sound, but if you’re worried, you can apply a little oil to reduce their appearance.
  • More serious damage: in the event of severe impact affecting the sound, it’s best to consult a professional who specializes in handpan repairs. Don’t try to straighten the metal yourself, as this will only aggravate the problem. If your handpan comes from me, please contact me as soon as possible.

Maintaining the Beauty of Your Handpan

The finish of your handpan is as important to you as its function. Keep it beautiful by following these few recommendations:

  • Protect it from the rain: humidity is its number one enemy, so avoid playing it in the rain.
  • Use a suitable oil: many oils can be used to maintain the handpan (such as coconut oil or camellia oil). But beware: some oils can leave a deposit that attracts dust. A specific oil for metal instruments is ideal.
Entretien Handpan

How do you choose your handpan?

If you’d like to discover other handpans, don’t hesitate to consult our guide on how to choose your first handpan. You’ll find practical advice on choosing the right model for your level and musical expectations.

Handpan Maintenance, My Summary

In short, good maintenance guarantees that your handpan will always be in good condition, resonating harmoniously for years to come. At Bapst Handpan, we’re here to help you every step of the way, from choosing your instrument to taking care of it. Don’t hesitate to contact me for any advice you may need, or to discuss the adoption of your first handpan…

Enjoy every note, and let yourself be carried away by the magic of your handpan! 🎶

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Charles Bapst

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