How to Store Musical Instruments in Self Storage

There’s a symphony to storing musical instruments. Whether you're an ardent professional, a passionate hobbyist, or a collector, knowing how to properly store your musical treasures is key to preserving their sound, aesthetic appeal, and longevity.

Today, we're looking at how to store musical instruments in self-storage.

Why Self Storage for Musical Instruments?

Before we hit the high notes on how to store specific instruments, it's worth understanding why self storage can be a superb option. It provides a safe, clean, and climate-controlled environment away from potential home hazards. This protection is particularly important for instruments susceptible to damage from temperature fluctuations, humidity changes, and accidental knocks or drops.

General Guidelines for Storing Musical Instruments

Regardless of the type of instrument you're storing, some general rules apply across the board. Ensure your storage unit maintains a consistent temperature, ideally around 20°C, with a relative humidity of 40-50%. These conditions help to prevent warping, cracking, and other forms of damage. Additionally, always store instruments in their cases, which offer an extra layer of protection.

Here are some storage tips for musical instruments depending on the instrument. First up we have guitars.

Acoustic & Electric Guitars

Before storing your guitar, it’s vital to loosen the strings. This simple step prevents tension that can warp the neck over time. Additionally, use a soft cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or fingerprints from the surface of the guitar. Finally, make sure the guitar is stored in a hard case, vertically, and never under heavy objects.

Violins & Cellos

Violins and cellos, like all string instruments, are very sensitive to environmental changes. To prepare for storage, loosen the bow hair and instrument strings slightly to relieve tension. Clean the instrument with a dry cloth to remove rosin dust and fingerprints. Always store violins and cellos in their hard-shell cases, vertically, and away from any items that may fall and cause damage.

Harps

Harps present a unique challenge due to their size and delicate nature. Remove any dust with a dry cloth and slightly loosen the strings to prevent excess tension. If possible, invest in a harp storage cover to provide extra protection. Store upright, ensuring the harp won't tip over.

How to Store a Piano in Self Storage

Pianos are majestic instruments that require careful handling due to their size and complexity. Firstly, a piano should be tuned before going into storage to maintain string tension. It should also be thoroughly cleaned, with the keys covered to protect them from dust. Always hire professionals to move your piano into storage to prevent damage. Once in the unit, cover the piano with a cotton sheet or specialised piano cover to protect it from dust and scratches.

Brass & Woodwind Instruments

Instruments like trumpets, flutes, and clarinets should be carefully cleaned and dried before storage to prevent moisture damage. If your instrument can be disassembled, do so before placing it in its case. Apply oil to valves and slides for brass instruments, and use cork grease on woodwinds to keep joints in good condition.

Drums

Drums should be thoroughly cleaned before storage, with the drum heads loosened to relieve tension. Store each drum in a case if possible. If not, wrap them in breathable material. Store cymbals vertically in a cymbal bag to prevent warping.

Looking After Your Instruments in Storage

Regardless of how carefully you’ve prepared and stored your musical instruments, their care shouldn't stop there. Regular maintenance checks can ensure their preservation in the long run.

Visit your storage unit periodically to check on your instruments. Examine them for any signs of damage or degradation. If your unit isn't climate-controlled, these check-ups are even more critical as external weather conditions can significantly affect the internal environment of your storage unit.

Dust your instruments lightly during these checks, especially those not stored in cases, like pianos or harps. For string instruments, consider tightening the strings back to their regular tension and playing them a bit before loosening the strings again for storage. This process can help maintain the instrument's sound quality over time.

Is Insurance Necessary?

Just as you might insure valuable items in your home, it's wise to consider insurance for your stored musical instruments. Despite your best efforts to protect them, accidents and unforeseen events can still occur. Most self-storage facilities offer some form of insurance but always double-check to make sure your instruments are covered for their full value.

Should You Consider Professional Packing?

Professional packing services can be a lifesaver, especially for larger, more complex instruments like pianos or harps. They have the necessary experience and resources to ensure your instrument is safely prepared for storage. If you're unsure about any part of the packing or storing process, don't hesitate to consult professionals.

Need storage help?

If you need help to store your musical instrument, get in touch with us at Pink Storage.  We offer affordable storage all around the UK including Cardiff, Swansea, Newport, Manchester and many more.

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