Buying a guitar is an exciting investment, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player. To ensure your instrument remains in peak condition for years to come, it’s essential to take proper care of it. Here are some tips to help your guitar stay as beautiful and playable as the day you bought it.
Storage
One of the best things you can do for your guitar is to store it properly. A hard-shell case offers the highest level of protection.
Even if you only play at home, a hard case shields your guitar from dust, knocks, and environmental fluctuations. Dust, in particular, can affect components like knobs, leading to annoying crackling sounds when you adjust them.
However, there is a trade-off to consider. Guitars kept in their cases are better protected and remain in excellent condition for longer. On the other hand, some players find they practice less when their guitars are stored out of sight. If you decide to keep your guitar in a case, make a conscious effort to play regularly to balance care with practice.
Humidity Control
Maintaining proper humidity is crucial for preserving your guitar’s condition. The ideal humidity level for a guitar is between 40% and 50%. Too much humidity can cause the wood to swell, leading to higher action, while too little can dry out the wood, potentially causing cracks.
A case humidifier is a simple solution that can help regulate the environment inside a hard-shell case. Alternatively, you can store your guitar in a humidity-controlled room. In either case, avoid exposing your guitar to direct sunlight or placing it near heating ducts for prolonged periods. Sudden temperature changes or extended exposure to heat can damage your instrument.
Cleaning
Regular cleaning keeps your guitar looking and performing its best. After each playing session, take a moment to wipe down the strings and body with a microfiber cloth. This simple habit can extend the life of your strings and prevent grime buildup on your guitar’s surface.
For a deeper clean, invest in guitar-specific cleaning products. Avoid using household cleaners, as they can leave a residue on the finish. Instead, use a polish designed for guitars. Always spray the polish onto your cloth rather than directly onto the guitar to avoid getting moisture into the electronics.
If your guitar has a rosewood or ebony fretboard, use a fretboard conditioner occasionally to prevent drying and cracking. However, avoid using conditioners on maple fretboards as they do not require it.
In a pinch, you can also breathe heavily on the guitar’s finish and wipe it with a cloth. The moisture from your breath will help remove dust and leave the surface clean.
Proper cleaning ensures your guitar stays in excellent condition and looks great every time you play.
Changing Strings
A fresh set of strings can breathe new life into your guitar’s sound. Strings can last up to six months, but ideally, you should change them every two to three months. If you gig regularly, you may want to replace them before every show to ensure the best tone and reliability.
New strings will also stay in tune better if they are stretched properly when you put them on. To stretch your strings, gently pull them upward along their length after installation and tuning, then retune as needed. This helps the strings settle in and reduces tuning instability.
When changing strings, take the opportunity to clean areas of your guitar that are harder to reach, such as the fretboard and bridge. This ensures your instrument remains in top-notch shape.
Setup
To keep your guitar playing its best, schedule a professional setup at least once a year. A setup typically includes:
- Adjusting the action (string height)
- Checking and correcting intonation (ensuring the guitar is in tune across all frets)
- Inspecting and cleaning electronics
- Replacing strings
A professional setup ensures your guitar is optimized for playability and sound. It’s also a great time to address any modifications or repairs you’ve been considering. For those in Northeast Ohio, Auburn Guitar in Newbury is a trusted local repair shop known for its expertise and customer service.
While some maintenance tasks can be done at home, more intricate adjustments are best left to a professional to avoid accidental damage.
Conclusion
With a little care and attention, your guitar can last a lifetime, becoming not just an instrument but a lifelong companion. Taking the time to store it properly, clean it regularly, change strings, and schedule professional setups ensures it will always perform at its best. Caring for your guitar is more than maintenance—it’s an opportunity to connect with your instrument and deepen your appreciation for it. Embrace the process, and your guitar will reward you with years of inspiration and beautiful music.
About The Author
Brian Fish is a professional guitarist who has been dedicated to helping other guitar players in Northeast Ohio pursue their musical dreams since 1994. He’s passionate about guiding others on their musical journey! He is the Guitar Playing Transformation Specialist, instructor, mentor, trainer, and coach at Guitar Lessons Geauga.
Brian has also created the fantastic rhythm course, “Ultimate Rhythm Mastery,” which is available at MusicTheoryForGuitar.com.
If you live in Geauga County / Northeast Ohio, Guitar Lessons Geauga can help you become the player you’ve always wanted to be. Click the button below to request your FREE no-obligation trial lesson
