Swabs come in various shapes, sizes, materials, and colors. The basic configuration is a rectangular piece of material that is drawn through the clarinet by a weighted string or chain. Cork Grease Cork is used at the joints of a clarinet to help make a snug, air-tight seal. Corks should fit tightly. However, tight corks often make assembly and disassembly difficult.
Cork grease helps by lubricating the joint between cork and wood.
A well lubricated joint requires much less strength to put together or detach, which can be of particular concern to younger students. Cork grease is commonly packaged in two different formats. Both greatly resemble lip balm. I like the type that comes in a tube. Twist the bottom of the tube to slightly extend the grease stick, touch a small amount to the cork, then spread evenly around the cork with your fingers.