Tips for Storing Musical Instruments
Anyone who owns an instrument is undoubtedly aware of the fragility and delicate nature of each one of them possesses. As a result, they must always be handled carefully, especially when in storage. If maintained properly, musical instruments are an investment that can last a lifetime. Storing musical instruments can be a difficult task. You will discover that you are capable of doing that with the help of straightforward guidance and a few of the tips and techniques supplied in the next few lines.
Several things to keep in mind when storing musical instruments
Keeping your belongings safe and easily accessible in a self storage Manhattan unit is a great idea for those with limited storage space at home, whether you’re in a garage band and need extra space to store your drum kit, amps, and guitars or want to pass down your piano, violin, or tuba to future generations.
Instruments can be extremely sensitive to specific climatic conditions, such as high temperatures and/or humidity levels because they are constructed of wood, metal, or leather. As a result, there are a few considerations to make regarding the storage of musical instruments and equipment.
Get a storage space with climate control
You can be sure that your instruments will remain in good condition while in storage since a climate-controlled self storage NYC maintains stable temperatures and humidity levels. Keep in mind that humidity is a major issue while storing musical instruments because high humidity can warp or deform wood. In addition, extremely cold and dry conditions might lead to instrument cracks. Climate control can preserve the sensitive components of other equipment, such as amplifiers and other electronic components, if you have any, as well.
When storing musical instruments, keep them in their original cases
Musical instrument cases are made to completely fit and safeguard the instruments. Check the interiors of the case to make sure they are spotless and free of damage or fraying. Cases should also be kept off the ground in the storage facility, off a pallet or shelf, and away from vents and direct sunlight. Consider adding cushioning or tarps to the cases for more protection to keep dust away. If you have just a couple of instruments you can rent small storage NYC unit. By doing this, you can save money and avoid leaving unused space that will collect dust.
Get your instrument ready for storage
Naturally, you’ll need to prepare your instrument for storage in addition to having the proper case and a reliable climate-controlled container. There are numerous processes involved in storing any instrument, depending on what sort you choose to store. Make sure to give your instrument a thorough cleaning with an approved cleaner before storing it for an extended period of time. Polish as necessary if needed. Never clean with household products because they could harm the instrument.
Before storing musical instruments take them apart
This is the initial stage of getting ready to store musical instruments. This is true, of course, if the instrument was made with the ability to disassemble. Detach straps, take out mouthpieces, and take out reeds. Make sure to loosen the strings a little bit on the stringed instruments. There’s no need to get rid of them entirely. However, we wish to avoid warping your instrument due to the tension of tight strings. The same process applies to bowstrings. Pianos are the lone exception. They are made to bear intense pressure, so you do not need to loosen their strings. However, don’t forget to loosen the drumheads as well.
Time to place your instruments in storage
It’s time to move your instruments into your unit after you’ve finished preparing them for storage. Think about getting some shelves for your storage space (or buying your own if you plan on storing them for a long time). If your unit is too small you can always try to find extra space storage NYC has. In particular, if your instruments are very sensitive to temperature variations, you should avoid setting them down on the ground. Place your heavier instruments, such as guitars or cellos, on shelves as opposed to putting them against a wall to prevent them from falling over.
Even if they are in a sturdy case, you should never place anything heavy on top of your musical instruments. Additionally, avoid piling up heavy musical instruments on top of other things.
Check your equipment from time to time
It is highly advised to check on your instruments and musical equipment in your storage facilities every few months. Or more frequently depending on how long you plan to store them, to make sure they continue to be in good shape. You may check for any problems like warping or cracking by performing a periodic examination; these can be repaired if taken to an expert for repairs right away. You can tune up and oil your instruments at this time if necessary.
If you are in the business of renting equipment, we advise you to use the business storage NYC has. This feature allows you to have video monitoring, which is ideal for seeing how your items are being manipulated.
General maintenance that all devices should get
Despite the differences in materials between instruments, the following advice is relevant to all of them:
- Always keep the instrument in its original case when storing it.
- Make sure the cases are in good shape and clean. There should be no powdering or fraying in them.
- Wrap the case with buffered, acid-free paper is a good idea when there is fraying and powdering present.
- Make sure to tune the instrument after removing it from long-term storage before beginning to play.
- Consider getting insurance for the items in your storage unit so that you are covered in the event of a fire, burglary, vandalism, or natural disaster.
Unpacking should be performed with caution
Storing musical instruments for an extended period of time will require cleaning and tuning before they can be used to make lovely music again. In fact, the longer the instrument has been stored, the more care it will require. Check for any damage such as cracked joints, rust, or discoloration, and if they do require expert care, get them in as soon as possible to avoid costly problems in the future.