Caring for Your Rawhide Drum
Remember rawhide is a natural living material and is subject to changes in temperature and humidity. Store it wrapped, face-up, or hanging on a wall in a warm, dry place. Keep it from extremes in temperature and never get the drum too close to a fire or radiator. Do not leave it in a hot car as these things could possibly split the head.
Generally, water and cold expand and heat restricts. In a dry, desert climate, you can spray water on the drum or place a slightly damp cloth or paper towel on the drumhead before you wrap it in a towel or drum case (If your drum is painted do not put water on the paint. You can put water on the back of the drum. When it is hot, cool it slowly. You can bring the tone down (loosen) by spraying water on the drumhead, up (tighten) by using the heat from a hairdryer about 12” from the drumhead.
When it is damp or humid you can protect the tone by storing
your drum in wool, cotton, or in a drum bag. When it is cold, warm it gradually.
Be patient if you need to restore your drum’s tone before
playing. It takes time to adjust the tone with water or heat.
You can clean your drum by rubbing gently with a slightly
damp cloth. You can keep the drum skin conditioned and from drying out by using a small amount of shea butter or coconut oil you can also use olive oil or a leather conditioner.
Protect your drum head by keeping it wrapped, face-up, never set anything on it.