Musical instruments are sensitive, valuable, and often irreplaceable. Whether you're storing a guitar, piano, drum kit, or orchestral instrument, Ireland's damp climate adds extra risk. Here's how to keep your instruments safe in storage.
The Dangers to Instruments in Storage
- Humidity: Too much moisture warps wood, rusts strings, and damages electronics
- Temperature changes: Rapid fluctuations crack wood and loosen glue joints
- Dust: Clogs mechanisms and dulls finishes
- Pressure: Stacking or leaning against items causes dents and scratches
Storing Guitars & String Instruments
- Loosen strings slightly (reduces neck tension during storage)
- Store in a hard case — never leave unprotected
- Include a case humidifier or silica gel packet
- Store upright or flat, never leaning at an angle
- Avoid garages and sheds (too much temperature/humidity variation)
Storing Pianos & Keyboards
- Pianos need a room with stable temperature and humidity (spare room is ideal)
- Cover with a breathable cloth to protect from dust
- Never store in a garage or against an exterior wall
- Electronic keyboards are less sensitive but still avoid damp spaces
Storing Drums & Percussion
- Loosen drum heads slightly to reduce tension
- Store cymbals in padded bags
- Keep hardware in cases or wrapped to prevent scratching
- A dry garage is usually fine for drum kits (they're robust)
Choosing Storage for Instruments
For acoustic instruments (guitars, violins, cellos, pianos), always choose an indoor space — a spare room is ideal. For robust instruments (drums, amps, PA speakers), a dry garage works fine. On Packhood, spare rooms from €50–€100/month give your instruments the conditions they need. If you're also storing amps, mixers, or other electronic equipment, read our guide to storing electronics safely.
Find safe instrument storage on Packhood and protect your gear from Ireland's damp.