To a musician, instruments are the most valuable possessions. Some guitarists swear their instrument is like a third limb.
Playing an instrument is a need, and creating music in front of an audience is a thrill.

musical instruments
As concerts are cancelled you may have an extra instrument or two at your home studio


However 2020. happened (unfortunately) and the concert part of being a musician is cancelled. Of course, a lot of people still play, create and publish online. However, their concert equipment and extra instruments are lying around. Waiting for better times - spring 2021, if we're all lucky

If that person is you, you could put away your instruments and musical equipment somewhere safely, in a storage unit or in box storage.

Just follow these simple rules for storing instruments, and you're all ready for a pick-up.

To do list for storing an instrument in a storage

1. Clean your instrument

Start by cleaning your instruments thoroughly using the proper solutions and cloths or pads. There are cleaning tools used specifically designed for instruments, so make sure to use these. Doing this is important to prevent dirt and moisture from building up while your instruments are stored.

2. Disassemble instruments if possible

If your instrument is made up of parts that can be disassembled, take it apart before storing into a unit. Loosen the strings in stringed instruments and drumheads in your drum sets, then remove reeds and mouthpieces in brass instruments. For those that cannot be disassembled, such as a piano, you can instead opt to place a tarp or sheet to prevent dust from collecting.

3. Store the instrument in the original case

Original case is the best protective thing for your instrument

As much as possible, it is best to place your instrument in its original case before putting it into a storage unit. Though the purpose of renting a unit is to keep it protected, you still have to pack your instruments carefully before storing them. Storage companies, like Access Box Storage, require instruments to be stored in a travel case before accepting them to ensure that they are protected while inside a unit.

4. Get a unit that has the right temperature

Climate control is crucial for musical instruments, so when renting a storage unit, make sure to ask about the temperature. Exposure to high humidity can cause moisture to seep into your instruments, and this can be particularly damaging for wood instruments as the moisture can cause wood to expand and crack.

A reputable storage company will be able to answer your questions about How to store instruments in a storage unit? They will likely be familiar with the importance of proper temperature for instrument storage.

5. Check your instrument

After placing your instruments and musical equipment in your storage units, it is highly recommended to check on them every few months, or more frequently depending on how long you plan to store them, to ensure that they remain in good condition.

Doing a periodic inspection can help you check for potential issues like warping or cracking, which can be fixed if brought to a professional for repairs immediately. During this time, you can also tune up your instruments and lubricate them if needed.

Are you ready for storage?

When you decide it's time to store your instrument for a while, measure your instrument case and place your request.

Your case will be picked up on the scheduled date, then stored in a secure facility with proper alarm systems.

You can then check on your units at any time, and whenever you need your instruments back, they will be delivered to you.