Storing Musical Instruments: The Complete Guide

Music has a way of reaching the deepest parts of our souls. The gentle strum of a guitar, the melodic notes from a piano, or the rhythmic beat of a drum all rely not only on the musician but also on the care given to the instruments themselves. Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your musical instruments, keeping every note as clear and pleasing as the day you first played it. This guide will walk you through the essentials of storing your musical instruments, offering tips and advice to help you preserve their life and quality for years to come.

Finding the Right Place to Store Your Musical Instruments

When it comes to storing your musical instruments, choosing the right location is just as important as the care you give them. You might consider keeping them at home, where you can keep an eye on them. However, not every home has the ideal conditions for instrument storage. Factors like fluctuating temperatures, humidity levels, and limited space can affect the long-term condition of your instruments.

Using a professional storage facility like Lakeside Storage offers a reliable alternative. Our storage units provide the controlled environment necessary to keep your instruments safe from damage. With climate-controlled units, you can trust that your instruments will be kept at a stable temperature and humidity level, reducing the risk of warping, cracking, or corrosion.

Specific Storage Techniques for Various Instruments

Different musical instruments require different storage techniques to maintain their condition and sound quality. Here’s how to store various types of instruments properly:

1. String Instruments

String instruments, such as violins, guitars, and cellos, are particularly sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. To prevent warping and cracking, keep them in a climate-controlled environment. It is recommended to loosen the strings slightly before storing to reduce tension on the instrument’s neck. Placing acid-free paper or tissue paper between the strings and the instrument can also help protect the surface from scratches.

2. Brass Instruments

Brass instruments like trumpets, trombones, and tubas need special care to avoid tarnish and corrosion. Before storing, make sure to dismantle the instrument and clean it thoroughly using instrument cleaning brushes and a clean cloth. Store each part in a padded case, which helps prevent physical damage and keeps the instrument safe from dust and moisture.

3. Woodwind Instruments

Woodwind instruments, including clarinets and saxophones, require careful disassembly before storage. Remove the reed, clean the mouthpiece, and dry all parts thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup. Store each piece separately, preferably in a case lined with acid-free tissue paper, to keep pads and keys in optimal condition.

4. Percussion and Keyboards

Large instruments like drum kits and pianos need plenty of space and stable conditions. Cover drumheads with a protective cloth and detension the heads to prevent damage during storage. For keyboards and pianos, it is best to cover them with a soft, breathable material to shield them from dust while allowing air circulation to prevent moisture buildup. If possible, store these larger instruments on wooden pallets to keep them off the ground and away from potential humidity extremes.

Preparing Instruments for Storage

Cleaning Your Instruments

Before storing any instrument, it is best to clean it thoroughly. Dust, dirt, and oils can cause damage over time if left unchecked. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the exterior and instrument cleaning brushes for crevices. Make sure the instrument is completely dry to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to corrosion or mold.

Using Protective Covers and Materials

After cleaning, protect your instrument with the right materials. For string instruments, place acid-free paper between the strings and the body. Brass and woodwind instruments should be wrapped in tissue paper or padded cases. Larger instruments, like pianos, should be covered with soft, breathable cloths to prevent dust and allow air circulation.

Detensioning and Disassembling

Loosening strings on guitars and violins before storage relieves pressure and reduces the risk of warping. For brass and woodwind instruments, disassembly is crucial to prevent damage. Detensioning drumheads on drum kits also helps prevent them from stretching or cracking during storage.

Preparing for Long-Term Storage

For extended storage periods, consider adding moisture absorbers inside the storage case to control humidity. Regularly check your instruments to ensure they remain in good condition. Climate-controlled storage units offer a stable environment, protecting your instruments from drastic temperature and humidity changes.

Storing Your Instruments with Lakeside Storage

Lakeside Storage in Leesburg, FL offers a controlled environment designed for storing musical instruments. Our climate-controlled storage units maintain stable temperature and humidity levels, which helps preserve the integrity of your instruments. This keeps string instruments, woodwind instruments, and larger instruments like pianos in good condition, reducing the risks of warping, cracking, or corrosion.

With a focus on security and convenience, our self-storage solutions provide peace of mind, knowing your instruments are safe and ready whenever you need them. Our focus at Lakeside Storage is to keep your instruments safe and in excellent condition so they are always ready when you need them. Contact us today to find the perfect storage option for your needs.