Abstract: A composition and method for treating reeds to prolong their useful life containing an oxidizing agent, such as hydrogen peroxide, a humectant, such as glycerol and water. Reeds are preferably routinely treated with the composition after each use or on a weekly basis by submerging the reeds in the composition at least up to the end of their playing surfaces until the bubbling action ceases. They are then removed from the solution, wiped off and stored.