You have just purchased a new guitar or better yet, your grandma gave you her old one and it turns out that it’s a collector’s item and worth two grand. You are dazed and amazed by all that has happened and are wondering what to do with this instrument besides playing it. Here are some tips on how to take care of your guitar and keep it in tip-top shape.
First, guitars are made of wood. (I know, this information is right on the cutting edge.) Because of this feature, the guitar is affected by environmental changes, primarily humidity. The best way to protect against humidity changes is to keep the guitar in its case whenever you are not playing it. I can hear your complaints already, “That’s a pain in the neck.” “I like to look at it.” “I will forget I have it and never play it.”
Second, during the winter months place a small humidifier in the case to keep the guitar from drying out. These can be purchased very inexpensively at a well-equipped guitar shop. The simplest kinds are made of plastic with a small hole in the top and a sponge on the inside. Keep the sponge moist and your guitar will live happily through the winter months.
Third, wipe the neck and strings after each use. The acid and perspiration from your hands will coat the strings and in a matter of weeks they will go dead. The problem then becomes that you get used to this dull, lifeless sound and think your guitar sounds great when it really sounds terrible.
Fourth, keep the finish clean and polished. You know the feeling, the light is glistening off the spruce top, you take a deep breath and smile at the beauty of your instrument, inwardly congratulating yourself on such a fine choice. You tilt your head to the side to see it at another angle and suddenly you see dried fingerprint stains all over the top. You immediately look around to see who could have done this and then sheepishly realize that no one else has ever played your guitar. Buy a high quality guitar polish from your favorite guitar store and give that little wooden beauty a good shine.