Essential Don'ts for Guitar Care and Playability
So, you've got a guitar, and you're eager to make some sweet music. That's fantastic! But just like any relationship, a healthy one with your instrument requires knowing what to avoid. Treating your guitar poorly can lead to anything from frustrating playability issues to permanent damage. This guide will walk you through the most common mistakes guitarists make and how to steer clear of them, ensuring your guitar sounds and feels its best for years to come.
Don't Neglect Proper Storage
This is arguably one of the most critical "don'ts." Leaving your guitar exposed to the elements is a recipe for disaster.
- Don't leave it in direct sunlight: The heat from the sun can warp the wood, especially the neck and body. It can also fade the finish and damage adhesives.
- Don't leave it in extreme temperatures: Both extreme heat and cold are detrimental. Think about what happens to your phone in a freezing car or a scorching attic – your guitar is susceptible to similar, if not worse, damage. This includes leaving it in the trunk of your car, especially during hot or cold weather.
- Don't leave it in humid or excessively dry environments: Wood expands and contracts with humidity. Too much humidity can cause the top to bulge, the glue joints to loosen, and even fret sprout (where the fret ends poke out from the side of the fretboard). Too little humidity can cause the wood to shrink, leading to cracks, warped necks, and again, fret sprout. A hygrometer and a humidifier/dehumidifier for your case or room are excellent investments.
- Don't leave it leaning precariously: A guitar left leaning against a wall or amp without proper support is an accident waiting to happen. A slight bump can send it toppling. Invest in a guitar stand or keep it in its case when not actively being played.
Don't Abuse Your Strings
Strings are your direct connection to sound production, and how you handle them matters.
- Don't ignore dead or corroded strings: Old, grimy strings sound dull, are harder to play, and can even damage your frets over time due to their rough surface. Change them regularly, typically every 1-3 months depending on playing frequency and how much you sweat.
- Don't overtighten tuning pegs: When tuning, be gentle. Overtightening can strip the gears inside the tuning machines, requiring a costly repair or replacement. Tune up to pitch; don't force it.
- Don't use excessive force when bending strings: While string bending is a fundamental guitar technique, overdoing it can lead to snapped strings and, in extreme cases, damage to the bridge or nut. Learn your strings' limits.
Don't Neglect Basic Maintenance
Your guitar isn't a magical self-sustaining instrument. It needs a little TLC.
- Don't ignore a dirty fretboard: Over time, sweat, dirt, and finger oils build up on the fretboard, making it sticky and less responsive. Wipe it down regularly with a clean, dry cloth after playing. For deeper cleaning, use a fretboard conditioner sparingly as needed.
- Don't let dust and grime accumulate: Dust isn't just unsightly; it can get into moving parts and electronics. Wipe down your guitar with a soft, lint-free cloth after each playing session.
- Don't attempt complex repairs without knowledge: While basic string changes are manageable, attempting truss rod adjustments, fretwork, or electronics soldering without proper knowledge and tools can lead to irreparable damage. Consult a qualified guitar technician for these tasks.
- Don't use harsh cleaning chemicals: Avoid household cleaners, abrasives, or solvents on your guitar's finish. These can strip away the finish, cause discoloration, or leave permanent damage. Use products specifically designed for guitar care.
Don't Play it Like a Percussion Instrument (Unless That's the Intended Style)
While some guitarists use percussive techniques, for most players, treating your guitar like a drum is a bad idea.
- Don't hit or strike the body forcefully: Excessive force can damage the wood, the finish, and internal bracing.
- Don't throw or drop your guitar: This seems obvious, but it bears repeating. Even a small drop can result in cracks, structural damage, and misaligned components.
Don't Forget About Setup and Intonation
A properly set-up guitar is a joy to play. A poorly set-up guitar is a constant struggle.
- Don't ignore buzzing strings: Buzzing can be caused by a number of issues, including low string action, uneven frets, or a warped neck. A professional setup can address these problems.
- Don't neglect intonation: If your guitar sounds out of tune when playing chords in higher frets, your intonation may be off. This is something a guitar technician can adjust.
- Don't assume your new guitar is perfectly set up: Many guitars, even expensive ones, benefit from a professional setup right out of the box to optimize playability.
Don't Be Careless with Cables and Electronics
If you play electric or acoustic-electric guitars, these components are vital.
- Don't yank on the cable: Always unplug by gripping the plug itself, not by pulling the cable. Repeatedly yanking can damage the input jack on your guitar and the connectors on your cable.
- Don't step on cables: This can damage the cable and potentially the input jack.
- Don't leave batteries in for extended periods if not in use: For guitars with active electronics, remove the battery when the guitar will be unused for a long time to prevent corrosion and potential damage to the battery compartment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I change my guitar strings?
The frequency of string changes depends on how much you play, how acidic your sweat is, and the environment you play in. A general guideline is every 1-3 months for regular players. If your strings sound dull, feel grimy, or you experience tuning instability, it's likely time for a change.
Why is it important to keep my guitar in a case or on a stand?
Keeping your guitar protected in its case or on a stand prevents accidental knocks, falls, and exposure to environmental factors like dust, humidity fluctuations, and temperature extremes. This significantly reduces the risk of physical damage and helps maintain its structural integrity and playability.
What are the signs that my guitar needs a professional setup?
Signs that your guitar might need a professional setup include buzzing strings, high action (strings too far from the fretboard), difficulty playing chords, tuning issues that persist even after tuning, and fret buzz in certain positions. A setup can address all these common problems.
Why should I avoid leaving my guitar in my car?
Cars are notorious for their extreme temperature fluctuations. In the summer, they can become ovens, leading to wood warping, glue failure, and finish damage. In the winter, they can become freezers, causing wood to contract and potentially crack. Even moderate temperature swings can be harmful to the delicate wood and finish of your guitar over time.
