The handpan drum is such an incredibly delicate and beautiful sounding instrument within the world of drums that it needs to be treated and cared for with such delicacy. If you've got one of handpans for sale and played for years, you know how important it is to make sure that your instrument stays in top condition. Below you will find a few simple tips to keep your hang instrument looking and sounding pristine for years to come.
Avoid Metal Contact
Made of carefully crafted metal shells, the handpan drum can easily be scratched or dented. Never let anyone play your handpan wearing metal rings, bracelets, long necklaces, or belt buckles exposed. The smallest scratch will severely damage the sound quality and general look of your instrument. It is always good practice to never touch the surface with a dirty hand.
Clean and Maintain Your Handpan
Keeping your hang drum well cleaned is essential to keeping it shining and for good resonance. In each playing session, use a microfibre cloth to gently wipe down the top and bottom sides of the handpan. Remember to also rinse out the inside of the pan, as dust and debris will tend to accumulate over time. Playing will allow buildup on your instrument, which can be prevented with a quick wipe after playing. Similarly, keep up a typical cleaning schedule, particularly on the off chance that you reside in moist conditions or close to the ocean. The handpan is able to become rusted or cause unwanted dots as it is susceptible to moisture. Store the instrument—unless it's plugged in—always ensuring it is left completely dry. If you're in a really humid area, you may want to put some moisture-absorbing product inside the case to prevent corrosion from the metal.
Proper Storage For Your Handpan
It is just as important how you store your handpan drum as the actual cleaning. Don't keep your instrument in a bag or case for too long; it's supposed to breathe. If you reside in salty sea air handpan storage should be in an airtight hard case or inside of an airtight cabinet with a moisture eater. As long as you are absolutely sure both the container and the handpan are 100% bone dry when putting the handpan in there, though. Otherwise, you're going to have rust. If you have high temperatures in your house, away from radiators or a fire, your hang drum can get warped. Additionally, it is important not to store the instrument upside down for longer than a few days because that may put tension on the Ding, which will detune it. Store the pan on a soft surface like a blanket or a beanbag so that it's not put under any pressure.
Environmental Hazard Protection
Handpan drums can be beautiful and dangerous to nature. If you're not careful, exposure to the elements (ground, humidity, heat, cold, etc.) can damage them.
- Earth
- 1. Never set your handpan on the ground without first checking it.
- 2. Remove sharp objects, such as pebbles or glass, which may scratch or dent the surface.
- 3. Place your pan on the ground only if you must & use a handpan mat, cloth, or soft surface to avoid scratches. You'd prefer to put the instrument away in its case rather than on the ground.
- Air: Your hanging instrument is one of the biggest threats to humidity. After playing, always dry your pan thoroughly with a microfibre cloth (especially if you have been in a humid environment). Over time, excess moisture can cause rust or some other type of damage. However, the cold can temporarily disturb the tuning but not cause permanent damage. Be sure to wait until the handpan has returned to room temperature before playing it again.
- Fire: You should not keep your handpan in direct sunlight or extreme heat, as this will expand the metal and cause tension. In case the handpan has been exposed to the sun, please wait until it cools down before playing it so that the tuning of the instrument is not bad.
- Water: If there's one thing that is the handpan's worst enemy, it's water. It can be tempting to try playing in the rain or near water, but you really do need to keep your handpan dry at all costs. Make sure that the instrument bag is dry when you store the instrument, and after playing in damp conditions, always give it a thorough wiping down. Any rust or wear brought on by moisture around the rim protector should be noted.
Transportation and Travel
Always transport the hang drum in a solid, well-padded bag. Namana, Panji, and Evatek bags are highly recommended to keep your instrument safe whether you're on the move. For longer trips or when flying, use a hard case for extra protection. The hang drum is a delicate instrument because if you bump into something while it's in transit, it will dent or scratch. If you fly, understand that flying presents challenges. Generally, planes and handpans don't mix well, but I've been on a plane with my handpan several times, and with a little care, it can be kept safe. If you're interested in more tips on transporting your handpan by air, be sure to check out my essential flying guide.
Storage and Display at Home
When you're at home, it's a good idea to store your hang drum so that it is not slammed or knocked into by things. If you buy the smaller octaves, you can use a wall hanger like the HCT wall mount, or for some octaves, use handpan racks to lift them off the ground. But if you're more into makeshift solutions, a sturdy table with a cloth underneath it or a beanbag because they mold with the shape of the pan also works very well to protect your surfaces. If you have pets or children who may be attracted to the instrument, just be careful.
The Cosmos Handpan drum is an absolutely precious instrument, it must be taken care of so that he can stay in a perfect state for years and years to come. Proper cleaning, staying away from environmental hazards, or safe transportation – each step is a vitally essential and inseparable portion of your hang instrument integrity. Following these tips will help you keep your handpan's sound and make it look just as beautiful so you can keep making beautiful music for many years to come.
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