need to put your piano into storage?
From grand concert pianos to more compact upright models, pianos are treasured instruments with a hefty price tag and an even weightier emotional significance.
If you're facing a move, a home renovation, or simply lack space, you might find yourself needing to store your piano. The process can seem daunting, but with our piano storage tips, you'll be well equipped to keep your instrument safe and sound.
Before delving into our tips, let's explore why people opt to store their pianos. Often, a move to a smaller space or temporary living situation is the trigger, especially if the new location can't accommodate the piano. Renovations or redecorations might also require temporary removal of the piano to prevent potential damage. In some cases, an inherited piano may need storage until a suitable home is found. So where should you store your piano if you don't have space in your home?
When it comes to storing your piano, not just any space will do. Pianos are sensitive to environmental changes, so a controlled environment is a must. A professional storage facility with climate control is ideal. Basements and garages, on the other hand, are a no-go due to humidity and temperature fluctuations.
In terms of space, plan for more than just the footprint of your piano. You'll need extra room for manoeuvring the piano in and out, and ample space around it to prevent accidental bumps or scrapes. If you do hire a storage unit, you will need to clean and prepare your piano before storing it away.
Cleaning your piano before storing it is crucial. Dust and dirt can scratch the surface or become lodged in the keys over time. Use a soft, dry cloth to gently remove dust from the surface and between the keys. Avoid using cleaning solutions, as they can damage the finish.
For the interior, it's best to hire a professional piano technician. The interior mechanisms are delicate and can be easily damaged without the right expertise. When you have cleaned your piano, you can begin to think about how you are going to protect it while it's in storage.
Protecting your piano from the onslaught of dust and potential damage is a step you don't want to skip when it comes to storing your beloved instrument. So, once your piano is thoroughly cleaned, how do you keep it safe?
The kind of cover you use can significantly impact the condition of your piano during storage. A specially designed piano cover, ideally one made from a breathable material, is the optimal choice. These covers are crafted to fit your piano perfectly, offering the best protection against dust and potential scratches.
If a specialized piano cover isn't within your reach, soft blankets can also work. They can be draped over the piano to provide a buffer against external elements. Ensure the blankets are clean and free of chemicals or rough fibres that could damage the piano's finish.
While it might be tempting to use a plastic cover – after all, they're widely available and affordable – resist the urge. Plastic covers, even though they seem like they'd offer solid protection, can do more harm than good. They trap moisture, creating a mini greenhouse effect around your piano. This trapped moisture can warp the wood, corrode the strings, and even encourage mould growth. All of these can cause significant damage to your piano's structure and sound.
Another simple yet critical step in protecting your piano is keeping the lid down. The keys of your piano are its most vulnerable part, susceptible to dust, dirt, and accidental spills. By keeping the lid down, you shield the keys from these risks and prevent foreign particles from getting lodged between them.
Remember, preparing your piano for storage is about more than putting it in a safe place. It's about creating a protective layer against potential harm. By selecting the right cover and keeping the lid down, you can ensure your piano remains pristine, ready to make beautiful music when it emerges from storage.
When you have protected your piano, you are able to think about moving it to your storage unit of choice.
Moving a piano is not a task to take lightly. Due to their size and weight, pianos can be difficult and dangerous to move without proper knowledge and equipment. Hiring professional piano movers is highly recommended to ensure the safety of both you and your instrument.
If you decide to move the piano yourself, be sure to use a heavy-duty dolly and straps to secure the piano. Always lift with your legs, not your back, and have plenty of help on hand. When your piano has been moved it's important to check on it from time to time to ensure no damage has occured to it.
Just because your piano is out of sight, it shouldn't be out of mind. Regularly check on your stored piano to ensure the environment remains stable, and no issues have arisen. This includes checking for pests, as mice and insects can damage the wood and internal mechanisms.
To further safeguard your piano, try to keep it off the ground during storage. This protects it from potential flooding and makes it less accessible to pests. Use pallets or a sturdy platform to elevate it.
Your piano is not a shelf. Even in storage, avoid placing anything on top of your piano. Additional weight can strain the internal mechanisms and the casing. Plus, items can easily scratch or damage the surface. With all of these tips your piano should now be safe, but we would still recomend getting piano insurance if you can.
Given the value of most pianos, it's wise to consider insurance for your instrument during its storage period. This can offer peace of mind and financial protection in the event of unforeseen damage or loss.
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