Find out how to store acoustic guitar long term in the safest way with storage tips and a checklist that includes doing’s and don’ts for electric, classical, and bass, also with 25 valuable questions answered.
Acoustic Guitar Buying Guides
How To Store Acoustic Guitar Long-Term?
If you have an acoustic that you’re not currently using, you may be wondering how to store it long-term. The best way to store a guitar long-term is to keep it in a case inside the house. Never store a guitar long-term in a garage or shed, as the humidity and temperature can damage the instrument. If you live in an apartment, make sure the case is stored upright, so it doesn’t fall over and get damaged. Guitars have value both financially and sentimentally, so it’s important to take care of them.
How Should You Safely Store Guitars?
To ensure your gem stays in pristine condition, it is important to store it correctly when you’re not using it. If you have an acoustic, it’s best to keep it in a hard case to protect it from the elements and bumps. If you have an electric, you can store it in a soft case or gig bag. Whichever type of guitar you have, be sure to keep it away from extreme temperature changes, as this can cause the wood to warp and the truss rod to rust. When stored correctly, your baby will be ready to play whenever you want.
What Is The Best Way To Store Your Guitar?
The best way to keep your gem stored properly is by keeping it in a safe, dry place. Direct sunlight and long-term storage can damage your guitar, so the safest way to store instruments is in a case or bag.
Long-Term Storage Checklist
If you’re a guitar player, you know that taking care of your instrument is important. That’s why when it comes to long-term planning, you need to be extra careful. Here’s a checklist to make sure putting your guitar properly:
-First, loosen the strings on your instrument. This will relieve tension on the neck and body and prevent the strings from rusting.
-Next, put your baby in its case and close it up tightly. If you have an acoustic, you may want to consider putting a humidifier in the case as well.
-Finally, store your gem in a cool, dry place with low humidity. Avoid extreme temperature changes, which can damage the wood.
How To Store A Guitar Long Term (Electric And Bass)?
The storage process for electric and bass guitars is the same as for acoustics. Both types of guitars need to be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight in a case or gig bag to protect them from dust and debris.
What About Classical Or Flamenco Ones?
These types of instruments typically have a truss rod that helps to keep the neck straight. If you are going to be storing your classical or flamenco for any length of time, it’s a good idea to loosen it before putting the guitar away. This will help prevent the neck from bowing over time. When storing your gem, be sure to store it in a cool, dry place, as we mentioned above.
Is It OK To Leave The Acoustics On Stand?
There are different schools of thought on this subject. Some guitarists believe that it is better to keep the gem in its case when not in use to protect it from dust and other potential hazards. Others believe that it is perfectly fine to leave the guitar on a stand, as long as the stand is sturdy and won’t tip over.
Personally, I believe that as long as the baby is on a sturdy floor stand, there is no harm in leaving it out. After all, guitars are meant to be played, not hidden away in their cases all the time! However, if you have an expensive or particularly delicate instrument, it might be worth taking extra precautions to keep it safe.
How Long Can You Store An Acoustic On A Stand?
You can store it on a floor stand in an environment with low humidity for an indefinite amount of time. If the humidity is high, however, it’s best to keep your gem in its case and check it regularly for signs of damage. High humidity can cause the wood in your instrument to warp, which will affect the sound and playability of the instrument. However, as long as the guitar is properly supported and not left in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures, it should be fine on a stand for extended periods of time.
Will A Guitar Stand Damage Your Guitar Structurally?
No, a guitar stand will not damage your instrument structurally. String tension is what keeps your gem in shape, and when you take it off the stand, that tension is released. So, if anything, leaving your baby on a stand for long periods of time might loosen up the strings a bit and cause them to go out of tune more easily. But the stand itself won’t damage the structure of your instrument.
Will a Guitar Stand Damage Your Guitar’s Finish?
No, a guitar stand will not damage your guitar’s finish. The headstock of your gem rests on the top of the stand, and the floor stand is made of soft material that will not scratch your instrument.
Is It OK To Hang Guitars By The Neck?
No, it’s not okay to hang guitars by the neck. The weight of the guitar can cause the headstock to snap off, especially if there’s no truss rod in place to support the tension of the strings. This can damage your gem beyond repair. It’s always best to support the guitar with the body when hanging it up.
When Should You Always Store Your Guitar In A Hard Case?
There are a few occasions when you should always store your gem in a case. These include when you’re taking it on an airplane, traveling by car for more than an hour, or leaving it in a hot car. Cases protect your guitar from the elements and potential damage, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and use one whenever possible.
Does The Type Of Case Matter?
No, the type of guitar case does not matter. A gig bag will be good enough, just like a hard case, and you can store it in any temperature and humidity. Just be sure to keep an eye on the humidity. Most guitarists have a case for their main gigging guitar and a gig bag for their backup or practice guitar.
How To Choose The Right Guitar Case For Your Needs?
When choosing a guitar case, the first thing you need to consider is what type of guitar you have. If you have an acoustic, you’ll want a case to protect it from being damaged. If you have an electric, you can choose either a case or a gig bag, as the second option is less expensive and easier to carry, but they don’t offer as much protection as a case. Inside the case, you’ll want to make sure there’s enough space for your instrument and all of your accessories. You should also check the material used in it. Below are our top recommendations:
Best Acoustic Guitar Cases (Our Top 3 Picks)
- Hardshell Acoustic Guitar Case, Dreadnought
- Fits Yamaha models: F Series, FG Series, A1 Series, A3 Series, CPX Series, FGX Series, FJX Series
- Fits any standard dreadnought sized acoustic guitar. Dimensions diagram below
- Plush inner lining
- Upgraded gold latches and hinges
- Rugged Impact-resistant ABS plastic exterior for premium durability
- Extra-strength handle offers a comfortable and secure grip
- Heavy-duty aluminum valances reinforced the overall strength to the case
- Eps foam with plush lining protects your guitar from scratches | Internal Storage Compartment for picks, capo, tuner and other small accessories
- Interior Dimensions: Body Length 23”/58.42 cm, Body Height 5”/12.7 cm, Lower Bout Width 16”/40.64 cm, Middle Bout Width 12.25”/31.11 cm, Upper Bout Width 12.5”/31.75cm, Overall Length 43” /109.22 cm
- Ultra-durable Black Tolex PVC Covered plywood construction stands up to years of use and abuse
- Ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip, perfectly balancing the weight of your instrument
- Chrome plated lockable latches secure the case, (3) Non-locking, (1) locking
- Spacious interior accessory compartment organizes all your favorite guitar accessories, while providing additional neck support. Thick plush lining keeps your guitar cushioned against impact
- Interior Dimensions: Overall Length: 38;4" Body Length: 20;5" Body Height: 4;6" Lower Bout Width: 13;8" Middle Bout Width: 9;6" Upper bout Width: 10"
Best Gig Bag For Acoustic Guitars (OUR TOP 3 PICKS)
- ChromaCast Acoustic Guitar padded Gig Bag
- 6-Pockets
- Exterior dimensions: 43" Length x 13.5" (Upper Bout)/ 17" (Lower bout) Width x 4" Height
- Interior dimensions: 42.5" Length x 13" (Upper Bout)/ 16"(lower bout) Width x 4" Height
- Includes: padded Gig Bag, guitar strap, & pick Sampler
- 40, 41, 42 Inches
- 6 Pockets Guitar Case
- Water Resistant
- Oxford Cloth
- 0.5 Inch Extra Thick Sponge Overly Padded
- For Acoustic, Classical Guitar
- With Anti-theft Pocket
- 43.5” x 4.7” x 17.7”, compatible with 39/40/41 inch guitars.
- Soft bag with water-resistant oxford cloth exterior. No need to worry about a light rain.
- Durable two-way smooth plastic zippers.
- Dual adjustable shoulder straps + two handles for convenience.
- Two exterior pouches: one on the front body and one on the neck. Pouches can fit sheet music, documents, music books, and accessories (pedals, adapters, cables, tuners, etc.)
- 0.35 Inch Thick Padding
- Water Resistant Dual Adjustable Shoulder Strap Guitar Case Gig Bag
- Back Hanger Loop, Black Color
Should Guitars Be Kept In Cases When Not In Use?
Yes, it’s recommended to keep your gems in cases when not in use as it can help prevent damage and wear and tear. Guitars are delicate instruments and should be treated with care. When not in use, keeping your gem in a case can help protect it from the elements, dust, and accidental bumps or scratches. If you don’t have a case for your instrument, consider investing in one to keep your instrument in good condition for years to come.
How do You Store An Acoustic Without a Case or Stand?
If you don’t have a case or stand for your guitar, you can still store it safely to some extent. The most important thing is to keep your baby away from any sharp objects that could damage the finish. You also want to make sure that the area is well-ventilated so that the gem doesn’t get too humid. Finally, you’ll want to keep your gem in a place where it won’t be disturbed so that the strings don’t get out of tune.
Should An Electric Or Acoustic Stored Flat Or Upright?
There is much debate over whether you should store your instrument upright or flat. Many guitarists store their guitars in cases, with the guitar lying flat. Others argue that you should store guitars, in their cases, upright.
The main reason for keeping it in its case is to protect it from damage. If you store it upright, there is a chance that it could fall over and be damaged. However, if you store the instrument by laying it flat, it is more likely to be knocked over and dented.
Another reason to keep it in its case when stored flat is to keep the strings from going out of tune. If you store your gem upright, the strings are under tension and are more likely to go out of tune. However, if you store the instrument flat, the strings are not under tension and are less likely to go out of tune.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to store your baby upright or flat is up to the individual guitarist. Some people prefer to store their guitars, in their cases, upright, while others prefer to store them flat.
Should You Store The Guitar Under A Bed?
There is no definitive answer to this question. Some guitarists store their guitars under their beds, while others keep them in cases or guitar racks. Ultimately, it is up to the individual guitarist to decide where to store their instrument. If you are worried about your instrument getting damaged, you may want to keep it in a case or on a rack. However, if you are simply looking for a convenient place to store your gem, under your bed may be an option.
What If I Always Need My Guitar Within My Reach?
If you’re a guitar player, you know the importance of having your instrument within reach at all times. What if you always need your instrument within reach? Here are a few things to consider:-
– A guitar stand is a great way to keep your guitar within reach without taking up too much space.
– If you have the space, a dedicated instrument room is the ultimate way to keep your instrument within reach.
– If you travel frequently and take your guitar all the time, or if you take the guitar often inside the city, consider investing in a hard case or gig bag that will be enough for protection and make it easy to transport.
These are a few things to consider to make sure your instrument is always close by.
What To Do If You Don’t Have A Case For Your Guitar?
If you don’t have a case for your baby, there are still ways to protect your gem and keep it in good condition. A gig bag is a good option if you want to store it as short-term storage or transport. This can be the best bet for specific situations. You can also store your baby in a humidified room when not in use. If you’re using your guitar regularly, be sure to clean it and check for damage after each gig. For the long term, an acoustic should be stored in a case with a room humidifier.
Should You Store Electric or Acoustic Without Strings?
If you’re not planning on playing your guitar for a while, you might be wondering if it’s better to store it with or without strings. There are benefits and drawbacks to both options.
Storing an acoustic without strings is generally considered the safest option. This is because the tension on the truss rod (the metal rod that runs along the inside of the neck) is released when the strings are removed. This can help prevent the neck from warping over time. However, it’s important to note that you should only leave your gem without strings for a short period of time. Otherwise, the wood can start to dry out and crack.
Guitars without strings can also be more susceptible to dust and other debris. If you live in a particularly dusty environment, it might be worth storing your gem in a case with a tight-fitting lid.
Storing an electric guitar with strings attached is generally fine as long as you don’t keep the guitar in its case for extended periods of time. The string tension won’t damage the neck, but leaving your guitar stored in its case for too long can cause the pads on the bridge to loosen and fall off.
So, should you store your electric or acoustic without strings?
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to store your baby with strings on is up to you. Just be sure to take into consideration the type of instrument you have, the climate you live in, and how long you’ll be storing it before making a decision.
Should You Detune Your Guitar When It’s Not In Use?
It’s a good idea to detune your guitar when you’re not playing it. This will help relieve stress on the guitar neck and keep your guitar safe. If you’re going to be away from your guitar for weeks or a month, it’s best to leave the strings off entirely. This will give your guitar a chance to rest and avoid any damage that could occur from leaving the strings on. Otherwise, you may need a completely new set of strings anyways.
Are Temperature And Humidity Bad For An Acoustic?
As I mentioned several times above, all kinds of guitars are susceptible to humidity and temperature. The guitar can absorb moisture from the air, which can loosen the strings and cause the guitar inside the case to warp. People store their guitars in cases to protect them from humidity and temperature, but if the humidity level is too high and there are extreme changes in temperature, the instrument will still be damaged, but the case will help to some extent.
Where You Should Not Store Your Guitar?
You shouldn’t store your baby in places with high humidity, as this can cause the string tension to drop and thereby damage the guitar. This is especially true for expensive guitars as well. If you’re storing it in a low-humidity room in the guitar’s case, you’re good to go. So, that’s the answer as you want to know how to properly store your guitar for many years to keep it in good condition.
What Can Happen If My Guitar Is Stored Improperly?
You should know how to store your guitar correctly when you’re not playing the guitar on regular intervals because, If you don’t take care of your baby, it won’t take care of you, and guitar repair consequences may arise. In a nutshell, improper storage can permanently damage your guitar over time. If you don’t keep your baby properly, many things can happen to it. You obviously don’t want your guitar to face such things:
The strings can loosen, the humidity level can change, and the truss rod can be damaged. If you keep your gem in its case, make sure the case is closed so that the humidity level stays stable. You should also store your guitar on a stand or in a humidifier so that the headstock doesn’t get damaged.
Top 5 Guitar Storage Tips
Assuming you’ve already got one guitar, here are five tips to store your guitars so they’ll stay in great shape. If this is your first guitar, congrats! You’re about to embark on a lifelong journey of musical enjoyment.
1. Keep your guitars in a clean and dry environment. Avoid extreme temperature changes and excessive humidity.
2. If you’re not playing your guitar for a while, keep it in a case or gig bag to protect it from dust and other airborne particles.
3. Don’t lean your guitar against anything that could potentially fall on it or knock it over. This includes other instruments, amps, speakers, etc.
4. Be careful when transporting your guitar in a car or any other vehicle. Always use a padded case, and never leave your guitar exposed to the elements (i.e., sun, rain, snow).
5. When you’re not playing your guitar, make sure the strings are loosened to relieve tension on the neck and body. This will also help prevent the strings from rusting.
These are the instructions that I follow to keep my guitars for everyday use or store my guitars when they’re not in use.
FAQ
Q. Are guitars waterproof?
No, guitars are not waterproof. Water can damage the wood and finish of a guitar, and it is not recommended to expose your guitar to excessive moisture.
Q. Can you store an acoustic in a plastic bag?
You can store an acoustic in a plastic bag, but it’s not the ideal way to protect your instrument. A case is a better option, and you can even put the case in a large plastic bag and seal the case from the inside to protect it from various harmful elements.
Final Verdict
Now that we’ve answered all of your questions about how to store guitars, especially acoustic ones, it’s time for you to take the necessary steps to protect your prized instruments. Follow our long-term storage checklist and make sure you keep your acoustic, electric, and bass guitars in good condition for years to come. If you have any more questions or need help choosing the right guitar case for your needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We want you to be able to enjoy playing your guitar for years to come – and proper storage is key!