Your guitar will last longer and stay in better condition if you take some time to look after it.

Guitar Humidifiers

Acoustic guitars and hollow body guitars are easily effected by humidity. Extreme heat or dryness may cause cracking or splitting. Dampness and extreme cold can cause the wood of your guitar to warp. If you live in a climate where it is dry, such as the southwester United States where there is little rainfall or in the northern states where the winters are very cold and dry, it is important to maintain a consistent humidity level for your guitar. This is easily done with a guitar humidifier. Humidifiers are simple systems that consist of a solution soaked sponge that rests in the sound hole of your guitar. They will either clip onto the strings and hang, or they will fit directly into the sound hole. When a humidifier is used the guitar should be stored in its case. Some guitar cases come with a built in humidifier. These are a great investment if you really want to protect your instrument and keep it in top condition. This is an easy decision to make if you have invested your hard earned money in a nice quality instrument.

Storing a Guitar

Your guitar can be easily damaged by accident so, when you are not playing it, put it in a safe place, preferably in a guitar case. Always keep it out of the way of clumsy hands and feet, such as those belonging to small children. Don’t leave it on the floor where it can be accidentally stepped on, or on a chair or couch where it can be sat on or the dog can jump on it. If you don’t have a Guitar case or gig bag, lean your guitar in a corner where it won’t easily be tripped over or bumped. You can also keep it in a closet to keep it away from direct sunlight.  If you want to keep your guitar out, then purchase a guitar stand and keep it safely on the stand. It’s not a good idea to lean your guitar up against the wall, but if you do, lean it in a corner and make sure it can’t slip out and fall on the floor.

Humicase Dreadnought Guitar Humidifier Case

Humicase Classical Guitar Humidifier Case

Oasis Oh-6 Case Humidifier

Playing your Guitar Outdoors

Some people love being able to take their guitar anywhere, including to the beach or camping. In this case it’s a great idea to invest in a used or inexpensive acoustic guitar that can take the punishment of the great outdoors. Backpacker guitars or travel guitars are perfect for those who love the portability of the guitar.

No matter what you choose to do with your guitar, or not matter what the quality or price you paid for it,  always treat it as a fragile, expensive instrument. It’s an investment, even if it was inexpensive and used. Take good care of your guitar and it will be around for years and years giving you plenty of entertainment and pleasure.

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