As the proud owner of a new musical instrument, proper storage should be one of your top concerns. Along with regular maintenance and proper care, storing your instruments correctly will help protect it from unintentional  and at times, uncontrollable damage. From humidity to the storage conditions and everything in between, here’s everything you need to know about musical instrument storage.

Check the Environment

The main thing you should be concerned about in regard to musical instrument storage is temperature and humidity. Extreme temperatures should be avoided at all costs. Similarly, drastic fluctuations in temperature and/or humidity can be very damaging to instruments, particularly when it comes to wooden instruments. Musical instruments of all types do well in temperatures of about 21°C, at humidity levels between 40-60%. To keep your instrument at a suitable humidity level, purchase a humidifier.

Know How to Store Them

Store all instruments in their original packaging, above ground level and well away from doors and open vents. It’s a good idea to release string tension on guitars and other stringed instruments to avoid breaking strings and warping the neck. Baby grand pianos are best stored on their side. Raise them above with casters or wooden pallets to minimise temperature fluctuations.

Storing Wooden Instruments

When it comes to wooden instrument storage, special care needs to be taken to prevent them from warping. In addition to using climate-controlled storage and a humidifier, you can protect your wooden instrument further by storing it in a polyurethane bag inside its case. Before storing, dismantle your instrument and clean each part individually, avoiding oil or alcohol-based polishes which can cause the wood to dry out and deteriorate. To prevent an accumulation of dust, clean your instrument every few months-even if it’s not being used or played.

Storing Brass Instruments

Before storing your brass instrument, disassemble it and remove the mouthpiece. You’ll also want to clean, oil, and polish it (inside and outside), until it looks brand new. To prevent rust, brass instruments should be as dry as possible during storage. If you don’t own specialised instrument cleaners, use water or a dry, lint-free cleaning cloth.

Maintain Your Instruments

No matter how well you store your instrument, it’s still a good idea to inspect your instruments for damage. If you’re storing a wooden, or wood-panelled instrument without a case, you should inspect it frequently for insect damage. You’ll also want to check for things like surface discolouration, mould, cracked joints, or deformation of the instrument. If you notice any of the above, take it to a repair technician immediately.

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when it comes to musical instrument storage.

We hope you’ve found this blog informative and useful. And if you’re looking to start music or singing lessons in Guernsey, we suggest you contact the School of Popular Music today to find out more about the classes we offer.

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