String Instrument Care: Temperature and Humidity Changes

Did you know that humidity and temperature changes can have a big effect on string instruments? A lack of humidity in the air due to changing temperatures, not using an instrument humidifier, improper instrument storage where temperatures fluctuate or changes in altitude can cause problems to occur. String instruments are made of wood, which expands and contracts with temperature and humidity changes. The wood expanding or contracting can cause action problems, buzzing strings, or even bow or warp the neck of a string instrument. To prevent this from happening to your instrument, keep it humidified with an instrument humidifier and be careful where you store it. Wooden instruments should never be stored close to areas where extreme temperature fluctuations can occur. For example, by a heating/cooling vent, radiator, radiant heat, stove windows or doors. If you detect a change in your instrument's handling or notice warping, bring it in to an experienced luthier for immediate attention.