What do you use to lubricate your slide?

Over the years I have experimented with everything from SuperSlick (the cream and the oil, and both together) to Slide-O-Mix (the old dual system and the new single bottle) to Trombotine, to various oils, creams and the like, and even tried Pond's Cold Cream and Lemon Pledge.

The best of the bunch? Well, oddly enough, when used right (and it's hard to get just right) Lemon Pledge in the old non-aerosol spray bottle worked the best, and smelled great. However, I started to second guess the intelligence behind constantly inhaling a household cleaner.

So, the next best thing. (Equally good, when used right) SuperSlick. When used correctly (99% of folks use waaaaay too much) it is the best thing out there. Just be careful, only use a tiny bit at the end of each slide, and make sure you clean your horn regularly (every couple of weeks minimum) to keep it from drying and building up on the inside of the outer slide.

I actually use a combination of SuperSlick, just a bit at the end of each slide, then sometimes (when I feel like it) a drop of SuperSlick oil on each slide, and a relatively new product out of Germany called Reka. It's sort of like the single bottle style of Slide-O-Mix, but in my opinion, better. Then add the spray bottle of water, and I'm good to go. That application lasts about a week or 2 depending on how much heavy playing I do. During those weeks, I can reuse the Reka a couple times, and only have to rely on the spray bottle a couple times per session.

When it comes down to it, different people have different opinions about lube, so you have to find a system that works well for you. Also, check out what the Slide Dr. has to say. He is the best out there, hands down.

http://www.slidedr.com/

You may also want to try Trombotine. It comes in a small tube like toothpaste...only not minty. It has no odor, and you just put a little bit on your finger, and rub it on the bottom part of your slide, then work your way up the slide. Just like the pledge stuff, I used to use Pond's Cold Cream. I would use it the same way. That has a smell and makes your horn smell like an old woman. So I've switched to Trombotine. Depending on your use...about once every week/week and a half should do it. Every time you use your horn, just spray water on the inner slide...the water re-activates the lubricant...and works like a charm! I've never tried Super Slick. But I have used Slide O Mix and other various creams, but I always find myself going back to Trombotine! Hope this was helpful!

-Mark

"makes your horn smell like an old woman."

I almost fell out of my chair when I read that. Brilliant. I'm using that line from now on. Thanks!

Trombonetine > All other trombone slide lubricants

hey Dan I don't play trombone just sayin' hi.

Trombotine is my choice. Even when I was playing two or three hours a day everyday when I was still in college (about 2004) I didnt need to lube or clean my slide for at least two weeks!!! This stuff has great viscocity and staying power!!! I have had the same tube for almost 5 YEARS!!! I rarely ever need to re-spray my slide down with water either. It doesn't dry out if you play regularly. Natural condensation I think is the best lubricant catalyst for any slide treatment.

keep in mind some lubes work better for different slides.
The best lubricant in my opionion? A truly clean and well aligned, dent free slide. When that's there, the lubricant is almost unnecessary.
For what it's worth, I've tried them all and still use Slide o Mix. I'd probably use superslick if I it wasn't so messy and a pain to apply.

I personally use SuperSlick cream, but your suggestions sound good, and maybe I'll try them.

--Dan

Don't ever use TOO MUCH of whatever slide treatment you use. With Trombotine, I don't use more then the size of the nozzle of the tube. I apply it to the stock of each slide (the thicker part) and work it in real well and gradually work my way up towards the hand brace. I make sure it is completely clear and that there are no white streaks or clumps. Then I spray it down at the stock with water. If the slide feels gummy, just take a towel and wipe off a bit from each slide close to the stock, and try the slide again. Continue wiping down if necessary until you get the desired feel.

<Added>

Don't forget to wipe the slide clean FIRST before applying or re-applying Trombotine.