Preparing instruments for storage – tips and tricks 

by | Jan 16, 2021 | Storage

Are you moving soon, and you’re wondering how to prepare your instruments for storage? Don’t worry – we have a solution! Movers Lenexa KS have successfully performed various types of movers for years, and we know what troubles the people of Kansas the most. To prepare instruments for storage, you have to be organized and informed in order to avoid damage. This process is something that you can do yourself, but make sure to devote all your energy to get knowledgeable about it. When you’re preparing instruments for storage, keep in mind that if you don’t do it properly, they will get damaged. 

Clean your instruments

The first step to preparing instruments for storage is cleaning them. Don’t use any chemicals, just go over instruments with a dry or damp cloth. You should never store any item before cleaning it first beforehand. That’s because the oil and other bodily fluids, even in very small quantities, can affect the materials if left uncleaned for a long time. It’s important that you use the right kind of cleaners if you want to clean your musical instruments thoroughly. While many people skip over this first step, we advise that you devote your time and properly prepare instruments for storage.

Preparing instruments for storage
Preparing instruments for storage differ from instrument to instrument, depending on the type and material.

What to keep in mind while preparing instruments for storage

There are several specificities that you should keep in mind when preparing instruments for storage:

  • Every instrument requires a specific process before you place it into storage. That’s because various musical instruments are made from different materials.
  • The instruments that are made out of only one material are the easiest to store.
  • The ones that are made from different, composite materials can pose more hardship as the same conditions might be good for one material, but not for the other. 

Store it in their case

Specialty boxes and cases exist for a very good reason. If your instrument has its own case, make sure that you store it in it. That’s because it fits your instrument the best. If there is any tumbling, falling or bad handling involved, the chances that your musical instrument gets damage are significantly smaller. Especially if you are facing an interstate move with your belongings. 

If you don’t have the case for your instrument anymore, consider getting a new one. In case this isn’t an option, try to find a case that will be the best possible fit for your instrument. The case that your instrument is going to be stored in should be in good condition!

Store the instrument in the case
Store the instrument in its case – it has the best fit and will offer maximum protection.

Get the quality storage unit

There are many various storages where you might choose to keep your instruments. To make sure that they’re properly cared for, invest in quality storage like self storage Lawrence KS. If you can, investing in the climate-controlled unit will make sure that your instruments are preserved in the best way possible. When you rent the climate-controlled unit, you can control the temperature and the humidity. Those types of units are usually well secured. They have video surveillance, guards and there are some climate-controlled units whose prices are affordable – you just have to take a little bit of time and find the right one for you.

Inside the storage

When you’re storing your instrument inside the storage, keep in mind these things: 

  • You should store your instrument away from any source of ventilation, and this includes windows and doorways. 
  • If you can, don’t store them directly on the floor. Place instruments on the shelf or on top of a cabinet. 
  • Your instrument will need to have a tune-up before you can play it again after you take it out of the storage. 
  • Insure your musical instruments. If anything happens to them, that way you’ll be fairly compensated. Accidents happen: there could be a break-in or a natural disaster. Think ahead and protect your instruments as much as possible!

Preparing instruments for storage depending on the type

Keyboards:

  • Clean each of the keys 
  • Before you close the case, make sure to cover the keys with the cotton cloth. That will prevent the dust from building up. 

Percussion instruments: 

  • Read the manual to find out how to store each percussion instrument. Even amongst this category, the way you should store them differs a lot. 
  • You don’t have to disassemble the instruments, just clean them properly
  • Place the cover on them 

Piano :

  • Clean the instrument thoroughly, especially the keys
  • Place the cover above it to prevent the dust
  • If you need to move it, consider hiring professional movers since you might injure yourself if you decide to do it. 
piano
Moving professionals will place your item in storage without any fuss or inconvenience.

Wood instruments: 

  • The strings on the instruments should be relaxed 
  • The strings also come in contact with human hands, so clean the strings and wrap them in the cotton 
  • To clean the wood, use the wax paste that’s designed for cleaning 
  • Those are the instruments that should also be stored away in a case

Pay attention to the place of storing

When you’re done preparing instruments for storage, make sure to take time and decide where it’s best to store them. Instruments such as drums don’t have to be disassembled, and they can be stored on the floor as they are. Meanwhile, the instruments in the cases should be stored off the floor. Place them on the shelves or any kind of cupboards, tables, or pallets that you can find. The temperature changes the most at the ground, which is why the instruments should be stored at height. If you need quality storage space to store your instruments, give us a call. Store your instruments in reliable storage units, and find them in the exact same state when you decide to play again!

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