Best Practices for Storing Instruments

Quarantine Delivery. Closeup of unrecognizable person taking and picking up carton package from the floor standing at home near door. Selective focus on cardboard box and hands, blurred background

Properly storing instruments is essential for ensuring their longevity and keeping them in good condition.

Whether you’re a professional musician, an amateur player, or just someone who enjoys having musical instruments around the house, there are certain tips and tricks that can help keep your treasured possessions safe and sound.

From woodwinds to brass to pianos, here are seven of the best practices for storing musical instruments that will ensure they stay ready to use whenever you need them.

1. Store Instruments in a Secure Storage Unit:

One of the best ways to store musical instruments safely is to use a secure storage unit. Choose one that’s temperature-controlled and provides plenty of room for you to arrange your instruments neatly, so they don’t get jostled or knocked around.

Make sure you invest in some padding or shelving to minimize vibrations and protect against dust.

2. Store Woodwinds Vertically:

Woodwind instruments like flutes, clarinets, oboes, and saxophones should be stored vertically whenever possible.

This lessens the strain on their delicate parts and prevents them from becoming warped over time. If you must store them horizontally, make sure to support the instrument’s body with some padding to avoid damage.

3. Store Brass Instruments Upright:

Similarly, brass instruments like trumpets and trombones should be stored upright whenever possible. This will prevent them from being damaged by rough handling or excessive pressure on their delicate parts.

4. Consider Air-Dried Pads:

If you’re storing woodwind instruments for an extended period, consider using air-dried pads to prevent the keys from becoming rusty or corroded. Before placing them in storage, make sure to clean and dry out all moisture inside the instrument so that it remains in peak condition.

5. Invest in a Piano Cover:

If you own an acoustic piano, it’s essential to keep it covered at all times when not in use. Investing in a high-quality cover will protect your instrument from dust and humidity, as well as accidental bumps or scratches. A good cover should also be fitted with straps to secure it in place.

6. Check Your Instrument Regularly:

Make sure to check on your instruments regularly, even if they’re being stored for a long time. Inspect them carefully for any signs of damage or deterioration, and clean out any dust or debris that may have accumulated over time.

7. Use Proper Cleaning Products:

When cleaning your instruments, be sure to use only the proper cleaning products intended for that specific type of instrument. Avoid using generic cleaners or detergents, as these can potentially damage the material or corrode any metal components.

Storing instruments properly is essential for ensuring their longevity and keeping them in good condition. By following these seven best practices, you can make sure that your woodwinds, brass, or pianos remain safe and ready to use whenever you need them.

Taking the time to clean out any dust or debris regularly, investing in a secure storage unit with enough padding and shelving space, using air-dried pads when storing woodwinds for extended periods, covering acoustic pianos correctly with straps to keep them firmly secured in place – all of this will help ensure that your musical instruments stay in peak condition throughout the years!