Whether you’re taking a break from playing, heading on vacation, or just looking to keep your guitar safe at home, knowing how to store a guitar properly is key to protecting your investment. Guitars are sensitive instruments—improper storage can lead to cracked wood, warped necks, buzzing strings, or worse.
Here’s a complete guide to keeping your guitar in excellent condition when it’s not in your hands.
1. Control Temperature & Humidity
Guitars hate extremes. The ideal storage environment is:
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Temperature: 65–75°F
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Humidity: 45–55% relative humidity
Avoid:
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Basements (often too damp)
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Attics (often too hot or cold)
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Near radiators, fireplaces, or direct sunlight
💡 Tip: Use a room humidifier or in-case guitar humidifier during dry months—especially winter in Ohio!
2. Use a Case—Hard or Soft
A good case protects your guitar from:
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Dust and debris
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Accidental knocks or bumps
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Sudden temperature changes
Best option:
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Hard shell case (especially for long-term or climate-controlled storage)
Good alternative: -
Padded gig bag (if kept in a safe, stable location)
Never leave a guitar exposed on the floor or propped against a wall. It’s just one misstep away from a cracked headstock.
3. Store Upright or on a Stand
If you’re displaying your guitar at home:
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Use a stable floor stand or a wall hanger
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Keep it away from windows or heating/cooling vents
If in a case:
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Store the case on its side (like a suitcase), not flat on its back, to reduce pressure on the neck and body
4. Loosen the Strings? Sometimes.
If storing long-term (months), consider loosening the strings slightly—especially on steel-string acoustics or guitars with high tension setups. This relieves neck and bridge pressure.
But for short-term (days to weeks), keeping the strings at pitch is totally fine.
5. Clean Before You Store
Before putting your guitar away for more than a few days:
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Wipe down the body and neck with a microfiber cloth
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Clean the strings (or replace them if they’re worn)
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Avoid applying polish or oils unless recommended for your guitar type
⚠️ Don’t store a dirty guitar—it traps oils and acids that can wear down finishes and hardware over time.
Final Thought: Treat Your Guitar Like a Pet, Not a Tool
Think of your guitar as something that breathes and reacts to its environment—because it does! With the right care, your instrument will stay in top playing condition for years (and retain its value too).
Need Gear or Advice?
At Chagrin Valley Music, we carry:
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Guitar humidifiers
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Hardshell cases and gig bags
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Wall hangers and floor stands
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And everything else to protect your instrument
📍 Visit us in Chagrin Falls
📞 Call us at 440-247-0300
🌐 Shop or learn more at chagrinvalleymusic.com