I ALWAYS soak mine in mouth wash for about a day with toothpicks between the reeds. It kills germs and makes the calls taste sweet. I make sure to rinse them in water after the day-long soaking so i get the mouth wash from between the reeds so it won't stick. They sound as good as ever, and help control that morning breathe. After season I do the mouth wash thing and then keep them in the freezer. My favorite call is 3 years old and still sings a sweet tune.