Keep your stethoscope dry. Never immerse it in liquid or subject it to any type of sterilization process. Clean all parts of your stethoscope using a 70% isopropyl alcohol solution and a soft cloth, removing the eartips to ensure a thorough cleaning.
Protect your stethoscope from extreme temperatures, oils and solvents to prevent damage.
Protect tubing from prolonged exposure to the lipids found in human skin by not wearing it against bare skin. The PVC tubing used in your stethoscope will harden if exposed to lipids for long periods of time. If you must wear it around your neck, protect it by placing it over the collar of your shirt.
Check your stethoscope routinely for obstructions. Lint or dirt may build up in it if the stethoscope is carried around in a pocket or bag and the build up may obstruct the sound pathway.
Check the seal on all loose parts of your stethoscope. Sound transmission relies on airtight seals. Check the tubing for cracks or damage. Damage to the tubing will prevent an airtight system and disrupt sound transmission.