I barely even know what it does! So... how do you use a reed guard?

If you`re talking about one of these ( http://www.oboeharbor.com/2130006.html ), they are used to store reeds when you aren`t using them. Slide the reed in and pop it into your case. They are fairly inexpensive, but only hold two reeds.

If you want more storage space & have a few extra $$ to spend, you may want to go with something different. Check these out: http://www.forrestsmusic.com/reed_cases.htm

Nina`s right.

I bought one once thinking it functioned like a clarinet cap, but no... lol

Get a reed case!

Thanks, both of you. My mom and I were fighting with it, because I broke my case that the reed came in... and its my only one. My reed is half dead; the edges are cracked, it was chipped... but it repairs itself! Really weird. Thanks, though. Seriously. I thought I was using it wrong.