If you’re planning to keep your guitar in a storage unit for an extended period, proper care can ensure it stays in excellent condition until the next time you play it. Otherwise, your prized instrument could sustain damage, such as warping and surface cracks. Here are some steps to take before storing your guitar for a long time.

How to Prepare a Guitar for a Long-Term Storage

1. Invest in a Guitar Case

If you're a musician who lugs a guitar everywhere you go, a gig case is enough to protect it from scratches. However, if you're storing the instrument for a long time, it's best to invest in a hardshell case. Aside from shielding your guitar from dust and dirt, the hard case will also protect it from humidity and harsh temperature changes, which can extensively damage it over time.

2. Unwind the Pegs

Putting tuned guitars in storage units can cause constant tension on the neck. Over a long period, the pressure can wrap the neck and cause serious damage. To prevent this from happening, loosen the tension a bit by turning the pegs about one to two steps down. 

3. Clean the Guitar

The guitar's strings and frets can collect grime and oil from your fingers when you play it. When left for an extended period, the dirt can corrode the strings and cause damage to the metal hardware.

Clean the guitar before putting it in storage. Using a polishing cloth, wipe the fretboard, body, neck, and strings with a polishing agent. You can also use a fretboard conditioner or lemon oil to keep the instrument from getting dry and brittle. 

If you’re looking for reliable storage units around Middletown, NY, check out All Season's Self Storage. This storage facility provides commercial storage, warehouse storage, boat storage, self-storage, and other related services to customers throughout Orange County. Aside from 24-hour access, their facility is also equipped with video surveillance and efficient lighting, so you can rest assured that your belongings will be safe. Call (845) 342-5017 or visit their website to reserve a unit and take advantage of discounts.