College Musicians’ Guide: Protecting Your Instruments During Academic Breaks

Understanding the Importance of Proper Instrument Storage During College Breaks

For college musicians, protecting your musical instruments during academic breaks is crucial for maintaining both their condition and value. Whether you’re heading home for summer break or studying abroad for a semester, proper storage can make the difference between returning to a perfectly preserved instrument or facing costly repairs.

Climate-Controlled Storage: Your Instrument’s Best Friend

Musical instruments are sensitive to temperature and humidity changes, making climate-controlled storage essential. Public Storage’s climate-controlled units maintain consistent conditions that help prevent:

• Wood warping or cracking in string instruments
• Metal corrosion in brass and woodwind instruments
• Damage to delicate mechanical parts
• Degradation of strings and pads

Instrument-Specific Storage Tips

String Instruments (Violin, Guitar, Cello)

• Loosen strings slightly to reduce tension
• Store in hard cases with humidity control packets
• Keep instruments off the ground using storage racks
• Maintain proper vertical positioning

Brass Instruments (Trumpet, Trombone)

• Clean and dry thoroughly before storage
• Disassemble where appropriate
• Use valve protectors and mouthpiece bags
• Store in molded cases with proper support

Woodwinds (Clarinet, Flute, Saxophone)

• Remove reeds and store separately
• Clean all parts and dry completely
• Use pad savers and key protectors
• Store in cases with desiccant packets

Preparing Your Storage Unit

Before storing your instruments, take these essential steps:

1. Clean and organize your storage unit
2. Install proper shelving or instrument stands
3. Create a layout map for easy access
4. Consider insurance coverage for valuable instruments
5. Document the condition with photos

Access and Maintenance During Storage

Even during extended storage periods, regular maintenance is important:

• Check instruments monthly if possible
• Monitor humidity levels with a hygrometer
• Replace desiccant packets as needed
• Keep detailed records of maintenance visits

Additional Storage Considerations

Sheet Music and Accessories

Don’t forget about proper storage for:

• Sheet music (use waterproof containers)
• Electronic equipment and amplifiers
• Spare parts and maintenance supplies
• Stands and performance accessories

Making the Most of Your Storage Investment

To maximize the value of your storage unit:

• Share space with trusted fellow musicians
• Organize by frequency of access
• Keep an inventory list with photos
• Consider proximity to campus for easy access

When to Choose Climate-Controlled Storage

Always opt for climate-controlled storage if you’re storing:

• Valuable or antique instruments
• Multiple instruments together
• Instruments for extended periods
• During extreme weather seasons

Conclusion

Proper storage of musical instruments during college breaks is an investment in your musical future. With Public Storage’s climate-controlled units and these comprehensive storage guidelines, you can ensure your instruments remain in perfect condition, ready for your return to campus. Remember, the small effort in proper storage preparation can save significant costs in repairs and replacements later.