Only run water through the harmonica if your comb is plastic or sealed wood. If the comb is wooden or metal, do not run water through it.
Try to be a dry harmonica player. This means you should try to reduce the amount of saliva that you pass into the harmonica while playing.
Do not play the harmonica right after brushing your teeth. Any residue left over from the toothpaste or mouthwash can build up. Don’t smoke while playing the harmonica. This can damage the harmonica.
Place the screws in a safe place where they won’t be lost. Spray both sides of the cover plates with alcohol and then wipe with a cloth.
If you have a wooden comb, do not use water or soap. Just use the brush or the sharp object. If you have a metal comb, make sure to dry it thoroughly before reassembling. [9] X Research source
Never brush across the reed. Only brush in the direction of the reed. Clean the other side of the reed plate as vigorously as you want since it has no reeds. Then run it under warm water to rinse. [13] X Research source You can also clean the reed plates with a q-tip and hydrogen peroxide. [14] X Research source
Screw the screws back in gradually. Tighten all three of them evenly before you tighten them as far as they can go. [15] X Research source