The handpan is a unique musical instrument that requires dedicated care due to both its delicate construction and its acoustic properties. With regular and proper maintenance, you can preserve its tonal clarity, appearance, and overall lifespan. Below, you'll find proven care tips to help protect and maintain your handpan for years to come.
After each use, gently wipe your handpan with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove fingerprints, sweat, and dust. These residues can gradually impact both the surface and the sound. For more thorough cleaning, apply a small amount of pure alcohol to the cloth. Once clean, finish by applying a thin layer of oil specifically formulated for handpans to protect the metal and support its longevity.
Note: Use only handpan-safe cleaning products and oils. Harsh or abrasive substances may damage the material or alter the instrument’s tone.
Moisture is one of the most significant threats to your handpan, especially if it’s made from untreated or nitrided steel. Always store your instrument in a dry, climate-stable environment. Avoid humid areas and minimize exposure to moisture during travel or outdoor performances.
Extra caution is needed when playing in tropical climates or near water. In these cases, ensure you clean and dry the instrument immediately after use.
Important: Avoid direct sunlight or sudden temperature changes, as they may cause the metal to expand or contract, affecting tuning stability and structural integrity.
Regularly oiling your handpan helps to prevent rust while enhancing its visual appeal. Both specialized handpan oils and select natural alternatives—such as cold-pressed olive oil—can be used. Apply a small amount to a soft cloth and distribute it evenly across the surface. Be sure to remove any excess to avoid attracting dust or dirt.
Need supplies? You'll find high-quality handpan oils in our online shop, carefully selected for various surface finishes.
When not in use, always store the instrument in a padded and well-ventilated case. This will protect it from accidental impacts while also preventing condensation, which can lead to corrosion over time.
Our tip: Invest in a high-quality case with adequate padding and moisture control to ensure optimal storage conditions.
Even with the best care, handpans can experience slight detuning over time due to changes in temperature, frequent playing, or transportation. If certain notes begin to sound off or tonal changes are noticeable, it’s advisable to have your instrument professionally retuned.
Support available: If you're looking for a professional tuner in your area, feel free to contact us – we’ll gladly help you find one.
Before applying these tips, we recommend to inform yourself about the material of your handpan. Different materials like stainless steel, nitrided steel or ember steel have individual requirements for maintenance.
Check the list below to see what requirements your handpan has or contact your handpan maker to be sure:
More visible fingerprints than other materials
Can be stored in moderately humid environments
Still needs protection from salt air (coastal areas)
Average oiling requirements
More moisture-sensitive than stainless steel
Regular oiling crucial for rust prevention
Best stored in dry environments
Requires more frequent maintenance in humid climates
Most corrosion-resistant of all three materials
Requires minimal maintenance
Can handle humid environments better than nitrided steel
Less frequent oiling needed
We’re here to support your handpan journey every step of the way. For personalized advice or assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@yataoshop.com or directly on Whatsapp
With much love,
Malte & the Yatao Team
