How to Store a Guitar

You can store a guitar in a storage unit successfully by keeping it clean, packed properly, and in a controlled environment. If you are decluttering your home, revamping your music space, or keeping your instrument in reserve during a move, taking a few thoughtful steps ensures your guitar stays in top shape.

Start with a Clean Guitar

Before your guitar hits the storage unit, give it a thorough cleaning. Dust, sweat, and fingerprints can affect the finish and hardware over time. Here’s how to clean different types of guitars:

• Acoustic guitars: Wipe the body and fretboard with a soft cloth and lightly polish the body to maintain shine while keeping the strings and bridge free of dust.

• Electric guitars: Wipe the body, fretboard, and metal parts, including pickups and knobs, to remove dust and prevent corrosion.

• Bass guitars: Wipe the fretboard, body, and strings to remove oils and grime that build up faster on thicker strings, and lightly condition unfinished fretboards if needed.

Pack It Away Properly

A sturdy case is essential for storing any guitar. Hard cases offer the best protection for all types, while padded gig bags can work if your storage unit has climate control. Loosen the strings slightly to relieve tension on the neck. Wrap the guitar in a soft cloth or bubble wrap to keep dust off and reduce movement inside the case. Acoustic guitars need extra attention to humidity, so consider adding a small moisture-absorbing packet. Electric and bass guitars benefit from having their cords and accessories stored separately in the case.

What Kind of Storage Unit Works Best?

A climate-controlled storage unit is ideal for guitars. Wood, glue, and electronics can react to extreme heat, humidity, or cold, causing cracks, warping, or sticky finishes. Keep your guitar upright and avoid stacking heavy items on top.

Additional Tips for Guitar Storage

If you have multiple guitars, keep them separated to prevent bumps and scratches. Acoustic guitars can benefit from occasional checks to ensure humidity is stable. Electric and bass guitars should have their electronics checked periodically for moisture or dust buildup. Regularly opening the case allows air circulation and keeps your guitar in playable condition.

Storing a guitar in a storage unit does not have to be stressful. With proper cleaning, packing, and unit selection, you can stash your instruments away and come back to them ready to play. This keeps your guitars tidy, maintained, and ready for your next jam session.

Features and amenities vary by location, facility, and unit. “Climate-controlled” and related terms (such as air-conditioned, heated, or humidistat-equipped) describe storage spaces designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels compared to non-climate-controlled units. Public Storage does not guarantee temperature or humidity ranges. Availability, features, and unit types may differ by location, facility, and unit. Please confirm with your facility whether specific climate-controlled features are available on units at that location.