Summer Guitar Care: Tips to Keep Your Instrument Safe in Hot Weather

Summer love

Here at Guitar From Spain, it looks like we’re in for another hot, sizzling summer. But wherever you are and wherever you are heading (in the northern hemisphere), chances are, temperatures will rise and (relative) humidity will follow suit. You probably already know that extremes of either of these elements can be a danger to your valuable instrument: taking your guitar outside for a strum in the sun can be no picnic.

But there are also plenty of things you can do to keep your instrument in optimal condition over the sunny season.

Touch wood

A guitar is a delicate instrument made of fine woods. And whilst lengthy exposure to the heat will affect the sound and appearance of the instrument, there is an added risk when you factor in the sudden temperature changes that are commonplace in the summer. This is because when wood (an organic material) expands and contracts in short periods of time, it can result in cracks, deformation and loss of sound quality.

Significant changes in humidity are also a danger. When wood loses moisture, it shrinks, resulting in poor tone and intonation; when it gains moisture, it expands and swells: the cell walls become softer, and the wood can warp more easily. This distorts the structure of the instrument and affects its tone and playability.

An average temperature of 21 degrees and a relative humidity of between 40% and 60% are ideal.

Where the sun don’t shine

The most basic recommendations over the summer include keeping your instrument out of direct sunlight and away from windows, doors and air conditioning units. Don’t leave it in the car, of course, as the extreme temperatures can cause the glues to soften and the bridge to come loose. When it’s not in use, it’s best to keep your guitar inside a case.

The two main kinds of guitar case are the gig bag and hard case. Gig bags are useful for transporting your instrument for short distances, because they are light to carry and offer a reasonable amount of protection. But they don’t protect against temperature changes that well. A hard case, such as a Hiscox model like the one above, offers superb thermal insulation, as well as protection against humidity and bumps and knocks if you are taking it on a longer journey, or by plane.

A case in hand

Some cases even include a hygrometer to check that the humidity level is suitable. The Alhambra guitar case 9650 with hygrometer (above) for classical and flamenco guitar has a built-in hygrometer that provides constant information about the humidity level inside the case.

Before removing the guitar from its case, it’s a good idea to give it some time to adjust to a new environment.

Home and dry

To ensure recommended humidity levels, you can also keep a humidifier in the case. For example, the Boveda 2-way humidity control automatically humidifies and dehumidifies the environment, keeping it at a constant relative humidity range of between 45% and 55%.

In a hot dry climate, there is also the danger of dehydration, which can cause the wood to shrink and soundboard to sink. The Oasis OH-5 PLUS+ Acoustic Guitar Humidifier is a good option here. It hangs in the sound hole from the strings and you can see when it needs a refill.

Don’t sweat it

But the weather conditions are not the only cause for concern over the hot season: sweat and dirt are no friends of your beloved instrument either. During the warmer months we (naturally) sweat more and perspiration can build up on the strings, neck and body of the guitar, compromising the tone of your instrument.

Consider changing the strings more frequently in the summer. When you remove them, wipe down the neck and body with a dry rag or microfibre cloth. If the fretboard looks dry, apply a little conditioning oil, such as Dunlop 6554 Ultimate Lemon Oil.

Sunny side up

And one last piece of advice to keep your guitar in tip-top shape this season: play it often.

At GFS we know that as a musician, your instrument is one of your most prized possessions. And with just a little care and attention, your guitar from Spain will last for many summers to come.