Prepare musical instruments for storage the right way

Not all instruments are the same. Especially when it comes to properly store them. Every type of instrument is unique in its sound, that’s why the methods of storage differ as well. To avoid damage, it’s important to put each item in storage units Gahanna Ohio. You know how expensive musical instruments can be. Despite the cost, instruments can last more than a lifetime if you maintain them well. And proper storage can be an essential part of keeping your instrument in good shape. Learn more about how to prepare musical instruments for storage the right way by reading below.

Step #1:

When you decide to prepare musical instruments for storage, it’s usually not enough to just put it in its case and forget about it. Even if your instrument is in a hard case, it can still potentially suffer damage if something falls on it with substantial force. If you’re storing your instrument for short periods of time, just use a soft case that’s easy for traveling. However, if you’re storing an instrument for a long period of time with Zippy Shell Columbia, a hard case is a better idea.

The original case provides the most protection for every piece. It also helps prevent the pieces from being disturbed or jarred while in storage. It will help to keep your instrument from suffering physical damage and still protect it from UV lights.

Important disclosure:

Many cases have plush velvet lining, which is supposed to provide a bit of cushioning to keep the instruments from being scratched. However, you should know that this lining can damage an instrument with time! Instead, place a layer of acid-free tissue between the lining and an instrument to prevent this damage. For larger instruments, use clean cotton bed sheets.

#2: Prepare musical instruments for storage with the use of the right kind of cleaners

When it comes to such precious belongings, it is extremely important to use special cleaning tools. You need cleaning supplies that are specifically designed for each individual type of instrument. You should definitely try to avoid using household cleaners, if possible. While it may take a chunk of your moving budget, musical instrument cleaners specific to each type of instrument can eliminate chemicals that would otherwise break down the surfaces and pieces.

#3: Invest in climate-controlled storage

Try to think of your storage room as a neutral environment. It should never get too hot, or too cold. In fact, it should always hover around 72°. Which is not too humid, and not too dry. How come climate-controlled storage is so effective? Note that extremes, even if only for a short time, can severely damage your pieces. Remember, it’s worth spending a little more to protect your instrument.

Tips for Storing Specific Types of Instruments

1. Prepare woodwind instruments for storage

• Break the instrument down as much as possible.
• Clean every piece.
• Place lining between the pads.
• Vacuum off the instrument and the surrounding area to ensure it remains mite free.

2. Prepare musical instruments for storage: Tips for brass instruments

• Break down the instrument as much as possible.
• Polish the brass as it’s prone to tarnishing and corrosion.
• Clean the interior tubing with a brush specific to each type.
• Vacuum off the instrument and the surrounding area to ensure it remains mite free.

3. Prepare musical instruments for storage: Percussion

• Any percussion variation should be cleaned in-depth and oiled if need be.
• Inspect and replace every piece if you find damages.
•  You should polish all the metal pieces.
• If the instrument has bars that can be broken in half or damaged, you should remove them prior to storage.
• Vacuum off the instrument and the surrounding area to ensure it remains mite free.
• Loosening drum skins is a good idea because it will help keep them from stretching.

4. Prepare musical instruments for storage: Tips on pianos

• Pianos do not need to have strings loosened because they can handle tons of pressure.
• Piano legs, pedals, and the piano bench should be wrapped in heavy padding to protect them.
• It’s always a good idea to cover pianos and drums with a tarp or a sheet to protect them from dust.
• Baby grand pianos should be moved on their sides.
• Whatever space you choose for storing your musical instruments, you should keep instruments off the floor. The greatest fluctuations in temperature frequently take place closer to the ground.
• Fluctuations in temperature can cause expansions and contractions to the wood of your instruments. That is potentially harmful to instruments. Especially when it comes to storing pianos, you should use casters or wooden pallets to lift them off the floor.

5. Prepare musical instruments for storage: String instruments

• Loosen the strings on the instrument and bow (mainly for long term storage).
• Wipe down to remove any excess rosin.
• Keep in mind, once the strings are loosened, the bridge could become loose. Consider adding padding to keep it safe.
• Vacuum off the instrument and the surrounding area to ensure it remains mite free.

 Final thoughts

• Proper storage of your instruments is paramount to the length of their life. There are several rules that apply to every type of instrument. But each one is different in its specifics. Prepare musical instruments for storage in ways that accommodate the individual needs of the pieces. It is the best way to ensure that your instrument is ready for use every time you pull it from storage.
• You may need to do more work if you’re intending on storing an instrument for an extended period of time. Wherever you store it, you should be sure that your instrument is in a location that is safe, dry, and secure.