Many expensive musical instruments have been unfortunately compromised because of neglect. One simply and inexpensive way of maintaining these instruments is to keep the humidity levels at the right amount. If you’ve also asked yourself, “Do I need a guitar humidifier?” read through the rest of this article to find out.

These humidifiers are very simple but effective devices at keeping the moisture content of your case at the recommended amount. If you leave in an area that has too much humidity, then your instrument may start to bend or warp, causing the tone to be distorted. The strings may also be damaged and the glue that holds the bridge may weaken. An area with too little humidity can also be very dangerous as well.

Try to check if your area is suited to keeping your instrument without these gadgets. If you go outside and you don’t feel anything unusual, then it’s probably fine just to keep your instrument. If however your skin starts too feel too clammy and sticky, you may have too much humidity. If you feel too dry and your lips start to crack, your locality has too little humidity.

The basic mechanism of any humidifier will follow the rule of keeping the levels balance. As such, it acts by allowing the water that’s trapped in it to simply evaporate into the case. Some models are able to absorb back some moisture if the levels are too high. Most of these gadgets will have a clay or sponge like interior that you can soak in water. All you have to do is place it inside your case or guitar, and it’ll do the rest.

As a general rule, you will want to get one of these devices during the winter months. This is because there is less moisture in the cold air than there is in warm. In addition, your home’s heating system may have removed most of the moisture indoors anyway.

This rule may not always be applicable for some areas where the humidity level can be low for most of the year. If you’re unsure about your situation, first check the local weather reports. Although they show the levels outdoors, it’s a good way of assessing your needs. If you can, get a hygrometer to test indoors. This is much more important as you’ll most likely be playing your instrument indoors.

Once the levels start to drop below forty five percent, this is when you’ll start using the device. Below thirty percent and you’ll want to add water every week or so. Any lower and you’ll need to check it every couple of days. Do I need a guitar humidifier is something that you’ll have to determine by yourself. Look around your locality and your home to determine whether or not the levels are alright.

Wondering whether you should invest in a guitar humidifier? Check out our guitar care tips and advice now in our comprehensive guide to all you need to know about where to buy musical instruments via the World Wide Web.

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