How to store a guitar through Mumbai's monsoon

What humidity does to a guitar

• The top and body can swell, which may raise the string height (the action) and make the guitar feel stiff or buzzy.
• Glue joints and the bridge can weaken over time in damp conditions.
• Strings, frets and metal hardware rust faster, and fretboards can turn gummy.
• Finishes can cloud, and case linings can grow mould.

Aim for 45 to 55 percent humidity

Many guitar makers recommend keeping guitars at roughly 45 to 55 percent relative humidity, at a steady, moderate temperature and away from sudden swings. A small hygrometer in the case shows you where you stand.

A simple monsoon routine

1. Keep the guitar in a hard case and close the latches. A soft gig bag gives little protection from humidity.
2. Add a two-way humidity pack made for guitars, or silica gel if that is all you have, and replace or recharge it on schedule.
3. Wipe the strings and fretboard with a dry cloth after you play to clear sweat and moisture.
4. Store it away from outer walls, windows, the floor, bathrooms and AC outlets or drip lines.
5. Open the case once a month to check the hygrometer, the pack and the guitar for rust or mould.

If it will not be played for months

Some players slightly relax the string tension for long storage. Ask a guitar technician what suits your instrument before you change anything, and have it checked after the monsoon.

Do not want to manage it yourself?

A storage service can look after the guitar while you are away or between gigs. Ask what conditions it is kept in, how it is packed and recorded, and whether insurance is offered. RentMint does not offer insurance yet.

At RentMint a guitar is on the Large plan at ₹349 per item per month. We photograph its condition at pickup, tag it with its own QR code and seal it, and you can ask for it back any time.