How to Store an Amplifier

If you want to store an amp, the key is to clean it, pack it carefully, and choose the right storage unit. Storing an amp does not have to be stressful. It can be as simple as giving your gear a little breathing room until you need it again.

Clean Before You Pack Away

Before putting your amp into storage, give it a quick cleaning. Dust and grime can sneak into knobs and jacks, potentially affecting performance later. Use a soft cloth to wipe the exterior and compressed air for tricky spots. If your amp has removable covers or grill cloth, make sure those are tidy too.

Choose the Right Storage Unit

Temperature and humidity matter when storing electronic gear. A climate-controlled storage unit helps prevent moisture damage and temperature swings. Public Storage offers units with climate control, making it a convenient spot to stash your amp. You can also organize the area around the amp with other music gear so it is easy to access and tidy.

How Do You Pack an Amp Properly?

Packing your amp is all about cushioning and spacing. Use a sturdy box with padding such as bubble wrap, blankets, or foam sheets. Avoid stacking amps on top of each other, even with padding, and keep heavy items off the top to prevent pressure on the circuitry. If possible, remove detachable parts, like footswitches or cables, and pack them separately to keep everything neat. Using amp covers can also help keep dust from settling inside your amp, which can affect the electronics and speakers over time. Placing your amp on a shelf rather than the floor gives it a little breathing room and reduces accidental bumps.

Storing Other Instruments Alongside Your Amp

If you’re stashing more than just your amp, it helps to plan how everything fits together. Keep instruments like guitars, keyboards, or pedals in padded cases or gig bags to prevent scratches or bumps. Avoid placing heavy items on top of them, and give each instrument a little breathing room so they aren’t tossed around when you access the unit. You can organize smaller items in boxes or bins to keep cables, straps, and accessories tidy. By thinking of your storage unit as a mini music studio, you can keep all your gear organized and ready for your next jam session.

Final Tips to Stash Your Amp with Ease

Double-check that your amp is unplugged and fully cooled before storing. Keep cables wrapped neatly and avoid placing anything heavy on top. With these simple steps—cleaning, packing carefully, and choosing the right unit—you can declutter your space while giving your amp a mini retreat until it is time to hit the stage again.

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.