Is washing your flute with water bad for it?

It is generally not advisable to wash your flute with water, as it can damage the instrument. Water can cause the pads to swell and become waterlogged, which can affect the flute's sound quality and make it more difficult to play. Additionally, water can cause the metal parts of the flute to rust or corrode, which can also affect the instrument's performance.

A better way to clean your flute is to use a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt or dust. If there is a build-up of moisture inside the flute, you can use a special cleaning rod with a soft cloth attached to dry the inside of the instrument. It's also a good idea to periodically have the flute cleaned and serviced by a professional flute technician to ensure that it remains in good playing condition.