Djuro's Tips for Caring for Your Sound Vibrational Instruments

October 16, 2025

Whether in our Gong Baths or in our Boutique, we love sharing our love and enthusiasm for sound vibrational instruments. Each instrument carries its own unique vibration and spirit. We are often asked how to properly care for them to maintain their beauty and energetic integrity. With mindful care and regular maintenance, you can preserve not only their physical quality but also the clarity and the intention of the sounds they produce. Djuro shares his favorite tips for storing and caring for your sound instruments so they can continue to support your sound healing journey for years to come.

Drums

One of the oldest known percussion instruments, the frame drum consists of a shallow circular frame with a stretched membrane that produces a deep, resonant sound when struck.

Adaptable Frame Drums

Typically made from North African goat skin, these drums require regular maintenance to preserve their tone and longevity.

• Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth.
• Once a year, apply a thin layer of organic coconut oil using a soft cloth, then wipe off any excess.
• Add a thin layer of organic coconut oil to all leather surfaces and buff off immediately.
• Loosen the drum when traveling, a drum case provides the best protection on the go.
• Avoid storing in places with excessive heat or cold (such as inside a car), as this can cause permanent damage.
• Keep the drum out of direct sunlight.
• During winter or dry months, keep the drum moisturized and slightly loosened to prevent cracking or tightening.

Native American–Style Drums

Traditionally made from North American animal hides such as elk, bison, moose, or deer, these drums are not as adaptable but can be adjusted with care.

• To tighten the drum, place it near a gentle heat source (traditionally a fire).
• To loosen, set the drum on the ground (out of sunlight and during mild weather) to allow it to absorb moisture naturally.
• Once a year, apply a thin layer of organic coconut oil to maintain the hide’s integrity. Buff off immediately.
• Add a thin layer of organic coconut oil to all leather surfaces and buff off immediately.
• Keep away from excessive heat or direct sunlight to avoid damage.

Vegan Drums

Made from synthetic fibers, these drums are durable and low-maintenance.

• No regular maintenance required.
• Keep away from excessive heat, including direct sunlight, to prevent warping.

Ocean or Rain Drums

These can be made from either synthetic fiber or natural goat skin.

• If made with natural skin, wipe down once a year with a thin layer of organic coconut oil to preserve the material.
• For synthetic versions, no oiling or conditioning is needed.

Gongs

An ancient instrument used in our sound baths to create powerful, resonant vibrations that help calm the mind, release tension, and restore energetic balance within the body.

Paiste or Chau Gongs

Paiste is a Bronze alloy called Nickel Silver, which contains Nickel, Copper, and Zinc. Chou is made from a bronze alloy, typically consisting of about 77% to 80% copper and 23% to 20% tin.

• For optimal storage, keep your gong on a dedicated stand (appropriate for its weight and size) or hang it securely on a wall.
• Clean periodically, as dirt and dust can affect its tone and vibration. Using a soft cloth, apply Goddard’s Brass and Silver Polish and gently wipe off any excess.
• When traveling, place the gong face down on a protective cushion or blanket, or store it in a suitable case.
• Avoid striking the gong with excessive force, as this can cause dents or tonal damage. If your gong becomes damaged, contact the manufacturer for repair guidance.

Grotta Sonora Gongs

Grotta Sonora is made from a special metal alloy which is a blend of nickel and stainless steel. They also make special designs in silver nickel.

• Store your gong on a dedicated stand or hang it on a wall suited to its weight and size.
• Clean periodically, as dirt and dust can affect its tone and vibration. Use a soft microfiber cloth and gently wipe down the gong with a thin layer of isopropyl alcohol.
• When traveling, lay the gong face down on a protective cushion or blanket, or store it in a case.
• Avoid striking the gong with excessive force to prevent dents or tonal distortion. Should your gong sustain damage, reach out to the manufacturer for assistance.

Singing Bowls

Crystal and metal singing bowls produce soothing, harmonic tones that promote deep relaxation, energetic alignment, and a meditative state of mind. Proper care helps preserve their tone, resonance, and beauty for years to come.

Crystal Singing Bowls

Typically made from high-quality pure silica quartz

• Clean with gentle soap and room-temperature water as needed
• Store safely away from pets and small children
• Because they are fragile, avoid extreme hot or cold temperatures
• When traveling, use a padded case for protection
• Play along the outside of the bowl, not the inside rim
• Store on a rubber ring or dedicated stand
• Do not store mallets or objects inside the bowl
• Use only a suede or rubber mallet, the wrong type can cause cracks or tonal damage

Tibetan Singing Bowls

Typically made from multiple metal alloys

• Machine-made bowls (usually one or two alloys): wipe with a soft damp cloth, for painted bowls, use mild soap and room-temperature water
• If needed, use a metal cleaner appropriate to your bowl’s alloy
• Handcrafted bowls each have a unique tone and character, clean with a soft damp cloth and store in a padded case when traveling

Chimes

Their gentle, melodic tones promote relaxation, balance, and a sense of inner harmony.

Zaphir Chimes are protected with a layer of varnish, and the wooden elements are coated in wax.

• Keep away from direct heat or sunlight
• Occasional maintenance with varnish or oil will help protect the chime
• If used outdoors, hang in a sheltered area away from direct exposure to the elements

Flutes

The flute has deep roots in Indigenous cultures, traditionally used for ceremony, storytelling, and personal expression. Its soothing, heartfelt tones foster peace, reflection, and spiritual connection.

Native Style Wood Flutes can be made from a variety of woods, including Sungu Teak, Jackfruit, Cedar, Maple, or Salam Wood.

• Store in a soft bag or on a stand when not in use
• Keep away from excessive heat or direct sunlight
• Disinfect the mouth area with a few drops of tea tree essential oil
• Allow the flute to air dry before storing to prevent moisture buildup
• Wipe down gently with a soft, non-abrasive cloth as needed

Caring for your sound instruments is more than simple maintenance — it’s an act of respect and reciprocity. These tools are living extensions of vibration and intention, supporting healing, grounding, and transformation with every note. When you take time to cleanse, store, and handle them mindfully, you honor not only their physical beauty but also the spirit and energy they carry.

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