Using the right cleaning methods for singing bowls is very important. Aside from the obvious issues that dust and grime build-up can cause for the bowl’s aesthetics, it can also eventually cause damage to the bowl itself and affect the sounds it makes. In fact, this can indirectly end up causing some of the dangers of singing bowls!
So let’s take a look at some tips to clean singing sound bowls.
How to clean Tibetan singing bowls
Wash your hands
Prevention is always better than cure – and that applies to cleaning singing bowls, too. Our skin naturally secretes oil, which is left behind on objects every time we touch something. It’s how we leave fingerprints – but over time, it can leave unpleasant stains on our singing bowls and tarnish the finish, too.
So washing – and drying – your hands prior to using your singing bowl can go a long way to preventing damage.
Wipe it down regularly
Singing bowls need to be wiped down regularly with a soft cloth to prevent excess dust build-up. Although dust is mostly just dead skin (still a bit icky, granted), it can occasionally contain damaging and corrosive elements. So make sure you’re regularly giving it a wipe down to keep it dust-free.
Use cleaning products sparingly
Although they make a powerful sound, singing bowls can actually be quite delicate. Caustic chemicals – for example, baking soda, salt or bleach – can damage the bowl’s surface. This will make them more difficult to play with and ruin their look.
So if you do need to do a deeper clean, you’ll likely only need a bit of lemon juice or a gentle detergent. For stubborn stains, you can partially fill the bowl with a mix of warm water and your cleaning agent, and leave it to soak overnight if necessary.
Just make sure you dry them thoroughly afterwards – water droplets or leftover cleaning agents can tarnish the metal if they’re not dried properly.
Don’t scrub!
Even if you spot a stubborn stain or tarnish in your singing bowl, don’t scrub at it. Now, you may need to use a specialised metal cleaner (check your local jewellery store) but scrubbing will only cause damage to the bowl’s surface. It’ll damage its look and potentially hurt its ability to play, too.
Where to store sound bowls
So the cleaning methods for singing bowls are pretty simple. But to help maintain them, you should also think about where you store them, too.
Keep them upright
Sound bowls should always be kept upright, whether they’re being played or in storage. Resting them upside down can potentially damage the rim, which will affect their ability to be played.
Additionally, they should always be placed on their cushions, as this will prevent their base from being damaged, too.
Keep it out of sunlight
The harsh UV light of the sun can damage the integrity of your singing bowl. So make sure that it’s not left in the sun for extended periods. Even if you’re playing it outdoors, it’s best used in the shade. And make sure that you slip, slop and slap as well!
Shop for singing bowls, accessories and more at Mindful Store
Here at Mindful Store, we’re dedicated to helping people learn more about and use singing bowls. So if you’ve still got questions about how to clean Tibetan singing bowls, or any of the items in our product range, make sure that you get in touch with us. We’ll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.
And make sure to browse around our store today, too; you’ll find an incredible range of Tibetan singing bowls, yoga accessories, and other items to help enhance your meditation practice.