Musical instruments are incredibly beautiful and practical items, and usually have a high financial and sentimental value. It’s not uncommon to see previously owned instruments go for thousands of dollars on online platforms, especially when they’re extremely rare or bear the signature of renowned artists. If you are very fond of your instruments and plan on reusing, donating, or selling them at some point, go the extra mile to keep them in grand condition. Below are a few steps that you can take to ensure their condition and safety are maintained. Keep Instruments In Prime Condition: The perfect environment is essential. Storing musical instruments in a proper environment is the best way to ensure they do not rust or become damaged. A climate-controlled environment is necessary because once exposed to excessive humidity, heat or cold, the instruments' materials could shrink, dry out, or warp, leading to irreparable damages. By keeping your equipment stored at the appropriate temperature and humidity level, you are ensuring that your prized possessions stay safe and valuable. Keep Instruments Safe: Cover your instruments or store them in their original carrying case. To avoid dust or debris buildups and signs of premature wear and tear associated with improper storage methods, you may also want to keep musical instruments in their original cases. When this is not an option, cover your instruments with clean cotton sheets. This is a very simple and effective strategy that you could employ when storing pianos and other large instruments that do not come in cases. Before storing certain pieces, remember that you may have to dismantle them, relax their springs, and clean and condition some of its components using special oils or wax. Keep Instruments Clean: Clean your instruments before and after storing them. Last but not least, keep in mind that it is very important to clean and tune all your instruments as soon as you get them out of storage, before showing them to potential buyers or playing them again. Utilize Self-Storage Units If keeping your valuable assets in a clean, climate-controlled environment is not an option in your home, consider reserving a storage unit specifically for your instruments, and other precious items. Investing in their preservation now can reap large rewards for decades to come.