Last Updated on December 14, 2023 by AG
Guitars, whether acoustic or electric, are delicate instruments that require proper care and maintenance to function at their best. Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to costly repairs and negatively impact the sound quality of the instrument.
This article will provide tips and advice on how to properly maintain your guitar to keep it playing and sounding its best. From cleaning and polishing to checking the action and intonation, we will cover all the essentials of guitar care.
Keep reading to learn how to keep your guitar in top shape.
Cleaning and Polishing
After each use, cleaning your guitar to remove any dirt, grime, or sweat that can cause damage over time is essential. A simple solution of water and a mild soap is suitable for cleaning the guitar body, neck, and headstock.
Then, use a guitar polish or conditioner to protect the finish and keep it looking shiny. Avoid using too much as it may build up and attract more dust and dirt. Make sure to polish your guitar regularly to keep its finish in good condition.
Cleaning the fretboard is important, which can be done using a soft cloth and lemon oil or a fretboard cleaner. Do not use excessive amounts of water or other liquids on the fretboard as it can cause damage.
Store your guitar in its case to protect it from dust and other elements.
Storing the Guitar
Storing your guitar in its case is a must in essential guitar care, as it will protect it from scratches, dents, and other potential damage.
Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight, as both can cause warping, cracks, and other problems.
Low humidity can cause the wood to shrink, leading to cracks, warping, and other types of damage. Consider using a hygrometer and a guitar humidifier to keep the humidity levels stable and prevent cracking, especially if you live in a dry climate.
Keeping your guitar away from sources of moisture is equally important. Moisture can cause wood to expand and potentially lead to warping or cracking.
Moist areas can be obvious like damp basements or bathrooms or less so, like places near a window in rainy territory.
Checking Action and Intonation:
The action and intonation of your guitar are critical components that determine how well it plays and sounds. Action refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard, while intonation refers to the accuracy of pitch of each string.
If the action is too high, the guitar is difficult and uncomfortable to play, if it is too low you’ll experience fret buzz.
If the intonation is off, the guitar will not sound in tune, even if the strings are correctly tuned. So when you care for your guitar: Check and adjust both the action and intonation regularly, or consult a professional luthier for assistance.
Replacing Worn or Dead Strings
Over time, strings can become worn, dead, or rusty, causing a decrease in tone quality and playability.
Replacing your strings regularly improves the sound of your guitar and makes it easier to play, as fresh strings have better tension and respond more accurately to your playing.
When choosing a string gauge (thickness), consider your playing style, preferred tone and the type of guitar you play.
Replace all strings at once, as it will improve the overall sound and tone quality and ensures equal tension on the neck .
Humidity Control for Acoustic Guitars
Humidity control is especially important for acoustic guitars, as changes in humidity can cause swelling, cracking, and warping. And wouldn’t it be a shame to destroy your guitar because of something, that is so easily avoidable, and if you have historic masterpieces like a pre-war Martin it’s unforgivable.
It is advisable to monitor the humidity levels in the environment where you store your guitar, as it is one of the best avoidable causes of cracking. You can monitor humidity levels with a hygrometer.
Keep your guitar at a humidity level of around 45-55%. A guitar humidifier can help you maintain the proper humidity level for your instrument.
There are several types of humidifiers available, including soundhole humidifiers and room humidifiers.
Avoid extreme temperature changes (as they go hand in hand with a rapid change in humidity) and store your guitar in a stable environment.
Inspecting and Maintaining Hardware
Hardware refers to the various mechanical components on your guitar, including the tuning pegs, bridge, and nut. They play an important role in the overall tone and performance.
Regularly inspect the hardware for any signs of wear or damage. Check for any loose parts, corrosion, or other issues that may need to be addressed. Lubricating moving parts with a light oil can help to keep them working smoothly.
If you’re not comfortable making repairs yourself, seek the assistance of a professional luthier.
Regular Tuning and Proper Handling
Regular tuning is crucial for keeping your guitar in top shape and producing a high-quality sound. Handle your guitar gently and avoid dropping or hitting it, as this can cause damage.
Use a guitar strap when playing to distribute the weight and reduce stress on the neck and body. Support the guitar when tuning or changing strings, as applying too much pressure can cause damage to the neck or headstock.
Guitar Maintenance – Conclusion
Regular guitar care is essential for ensuring your instrument stays in top condition, to protect your investment and to ensure optimal performance and a high-quality sound.
From cleaning and polishing to checking the action and intonation, regular maintenance will keep your guitar playing and sounding its best. And well maintained guitars can be a really good investment once they have reached a certain age, but that is a topic for another time.
Just don’t neglect maintenance, as it can lead to costly repairs down the line. A little effort and attention go a long way in keeping your guitar in good condition.
And like with all things: if in doubt about something, seek the advice of a professional (a luthier in this case).
