Understanding the Importance of Proper Piano Storage Prep
Storing your piano, whether temporarily or for an extended period, requires meticulous preparation to protect it from damage and ensure its longevity. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your piano for storage.
Step 1: Clean the Piano
Surface Cleaning: Begin with dusting the piano’s exterior, using a microfiber cloth to gently remove dust from the surface. Avoid using aerosol sprays or any cleaning products not specifically designed for pianos.
Keyboard Care: Clean the keys by wiping them with a soft cloth slightly dampened with water and mild soap. White keys can be cleaned using water, while black keys are best cleaned with a cloth dampened with diluted vinegar to avoid staining.
Step 2: Internal Cleaning
Internal cleaning should ideally be performed by professionals, especially for grand pianos where disassembly might be required. A technician will remove debris and dust from the soundboard, pedals, and interior action components.
Step 3: Tune the Piano
Tune the piano before storage. While it’s likely to go out of tune during the storage period, having it tuned helps maintain string tension and assists in the overall resilience against environmental changes.
Step 4: Prevent String Rust
Humidity and moisture can cause strings and other metal components to rust. Lubricate the strings lightly with a professional piano string conditioner, which can protect against moisture without causing damage to other components.
Step 5: Pest Prevention
Mothballs or natural alternatives like lavender bags can discourage pests. However, avoid placing these directly on the piano. Use a container or bag to contain the repellent and place it inside the piano but not in direct contact with any of the parts.
Step 6: Protecting the Piano Mechanism
Lock the Lid: Ensure the keyboard lid is locked to protect the keys. Nevertheless, avoid sealing the piano in plastic wrap as it traps moisture, leading to damage.
Step 7: Cover the Piano
Use a piano cover or a soft blanket. This will protect against dust and prevent scratches or other superficial damages. Specialized piano covers tailored to fit your model are recommended.
Step 8: Climate Control Considerations
Temperature: Store the piano in conditions that range ideally between 55°F and 85°F.
Humidity: Maintain a humidity level around 40-45%. Excessive dryness can cause the wood to crack, while too much moisture can lead to warping. Hygrometers can be installed to check moisture levels regularly.
Step 9: Choosing the Right Storage Location
Avoid Exterior Walls: Position the piano away from exterior walls of a storage unit as these walls can experience the most temperature fluctuations.
Ground Level: If possible, keep the piano on the ground level to avoid the hassle and danger of moving it up or down stairs.
No Direct Contact with Floor: Place the piano on pallets or a riser to avoid direct contact with potentially damp or cold floors.
Step 10: Use Climate-Controlled Storage
Choosing a climate-controlled storage facility is the best option to avoid swings in temperature and humidity levels.
Step 11: Regular Checks
Plan to inspect the piano periodically during storage. Check the unit for signs of pests, moisture, and other potential threats. Regular visits will also allow you to adjust the storage conditions if necessary.
Additional Tips
Moving: Ensure you use professional movers specializing in pianos to avoid physical damage during the transport to and from storage.
Insurance: Consider getting insurance for the duration of the storage period if your existing insurance policy doesn’t cover long-term storage.
By following these detailed preparations and considerations, your piano will remain protected during storage, maintaining its quality and prolonging its life until it’s time to bring the music back into your home.
