How to Store Your Guitar

Always Store Your Guitar Upright

The most important rule for guitar storage: always keep it upright.

Laying it flat on the floor or just leaning it against a wall may seem harmless, but it puts uneven pressure on the neck over time, which can cause neck warping. A warped neck makes the guitar harder to play and can be expensive to fix.

Two Ways to Store It Upright

① Use a Guitar Stand

The most common option. Guitar stands are affordable and widely available. Most support the body from below and keep the guitar stable and ready to play. Stands come in many styles — including folding portable types and hanging designs.

② Hang It on a Wall

Wall-mounted hooks hold the guitar by the neck and keep it off the floor, reducing the risk of it being knocked over. It also looks great as part of your room decor. You’ll need to drill into the wall, but once it’s secure, it’s a reliable option.

Putting It in a Case for Long-Term Storage

If you’re not going to play for a while, store your guitar in its case. This protects it from dust, accidental bumps, and humidity swings.

Even inside a case, store it upright. Laying cases flat and stacking things on top puts pressure on the neck, which defeats the purpose.

Watch Where You Put It

Avoid Direct Sunlight and Heat

Guitar bodies are made of wood and are sensitive to heat. Leaving your guitar in a car trunk, near a window, or anywhere that gets hot can cause the body glue to loosen and the finish to crack or bubble.

Aim for 40–60% Humidity

Wood responds to changes in humidity. Too much or too little moisture causes problems:

• Too dry (below 30%) → wood shrinks, leading to cracks and warping
• Too humid (above 70%) → swelling, mold, and glue breakdown

If your climate tends to be very dry or very humid, consider using a guitar humidifier or dehumidifier to keep things in range.

Note: Watch out for rubber-lined guitar stands. The rubber in some stands can chemically react with lacquer finishes and cause the paint to discolor or soften. If your guitar has a lacquer finish, look for a stand labeled as lacquer-safe.