Access Self Storage Blog
How to Keep Musical Instruments Safe in Storage
Whether they are a source of livelihood, an endeared hobby, or merely an object of sentimental value, musical instruments are often one of our most cherished possessions. Unfortunately, they are also subject to quick damage if not cared for properly, and their storage is no exception.
Storage Tips
If you’re in need of a storage solution in Manalapan, NJ, or another New Jersey city but aren’t sure about the best practices for instrument storage, we at Access Self Storage have years of knowledge and experience we can share on the subject to help you out.
A Proper Case and Padding
No matter if your musical instrument will be stored for a short period of time—such as a transition between homes—or for the long term, one of the most significant factors will be the quality of its case. Ideally, the original case designed for your specific instrument will be used. If that’s not an option, then do your best to use a case that fits the shape of your instrument and has water-proof qualities. Even in climate-controlled environments, it’s best not to leave anything to chance. Storing your instrument in a cardboard box or other improper case is a sure way to shorten the lifespan of the instrument and risk damaging it.
If you are storing a larger instrument, such as a drum set or piano, you will need to reinforce all of the exposed areas and vulnerable pieces with a thick padding, sheet, or tarp to minimize any scuffing or harm during transit.
If at all possible, keep your instruments off the floor and away from vents and doorways for the duration of their storage. To the best of your ability, and in the way safest for your instrument, store it in separate pieces.
Clean, Polish, and Prepare Your Instrument
Polish brass instruments using a white cotton cloth, and clean the interior tubing with a brush catered to its safety and maintenance. For woodwinds, a lot of the same principles apply, but trade out the polish for a formulated wax paste designed for their preservation. For keyboards and guitars, you’ll want to wipe off all smudges with a cotton cloth and cover the instruments to reduce dust collection. In the case of guitars, loosen the strings to relieve tension.
Store Your Instruments at Access Self Storage
At Access Self Storage, we are familiar with customers who know the worth of their instruments and the creative expression they bring. It’s because those belongings are so important that we go the extra step to offer storage shelving for pennies a day so your instruments can stay healthy and ready for your return.
When you’re ready to find a climate-controlled storage unit in Manalapan, NJ, you can rent online or contact your local facility today!
Other Articles for You
A Guide to Self-Storage Locks
The most important thing you can do to protect your belongings in a storage unit is to choose a secure, well-maintained facility. The second thing? Choosing the right lock. Here's a look at the many types of locks you can use to secure your belongings against theft.
Read
How Big of a Storage Unit Should I Get?
There's always one question that comes to someone's mind when using self storage: How big of a storage unit should I get? It's an age-old question, one that has been asked since the dawn of storage units. Do you go big or go home? Access Self Storage in Phillipsburg, NJ, is here with a few advantages and disadvantages of renting more space than you need.
Read
How to Store Souvenirs Without Them Becoming Unneccesary Clutter
Sometimes it's nice to get out of New Jersey and see other parts of the country or the world. While you're away, you may collect a few souvenirs and want to bring them home to show everyone where you've been. Unfortunately, some souvenirs get tossed to the side and become useless clutter. Access Self Storage has some tips to help you store and show off your souvenirs when you return home to Plainfield, NJ.
Read