"Are You Ruining Your Guitar With These Seemingly Innocent Finish Mistakes?"

Are You Ruining Your Guitar with These Seemingly Innocent Finish Mistakes?

As guitar players, we understand the importance of keeping our instrument in top shape. From tuning and string changes to truss rod adjustments, we do everything we can to ensure that our guitar plays and sounds its best. However, one aspect of guitar maintenance that is often overlooked is the finish. The finish of a guitar not only protects the wood but also adds to its aesthetic appeal. Here are some seemingly innocent finish mistakes that could be ruining your guitar:

Not cleaning your guitar properly
Using the wrong polishing products
Storing your guitar improperly
Exposing your guitar to extreme temperatures
Exposing your guitar to direct sunlight
Playing without a strap
Conclusion
FAQ

1. Not cleaning your guitar properly

One of the most common mistakes guitar players make is not cleaning their guitar properly. Over time, the build-up of dirt and sweat can damage the finish of the guitar. To prevent this, it’s important to clean your guitar regularly.

When cleaning your guitar, it’s essential to use the right tools. Avoid using abrasive materials such as steel wool or harsh chemicals that could strip the finish. Instead, use a soft, lint-free cloth and a guitar-specific cleaning solution. This will help to remove any build-up of dirt and sweat without damaging the finish.

2. Using the wrong polishing products

Another mistake that can ruin the finish of your guitar is using the wrong polishing products. While some polishes are designed specifically for guitars, others are not. Using the wrong polish can cause damage to the finish.

Before applying any polish, it’s important to read the label carefully to ensure that it’s suitable for use on a guitar. We recommend using a guitar-specific polish that will not only clean and protect the finish but also enhance its appearance.

3. Storing your guitar improperly

How you store your guitar can also affect its finish. Leaving your guitar lying around or storing it in a humid environment can cause the wood to swell and the finish to crack.

To prevent this, we recommend storing your guitar in a sturdy hard-shell case or a guitar stand that is designed to support the weight of the guitar. Make sure to keep your guitar in a cool, dry place to avoid any damage to the finish.

4. Exposing your guitar to extreme temperatures

Exposing your guitar to extreme temperatures can also damage the finish. High temperatures can cause the finish to melt while low temperatures can cause the finish to crack and peel.

It’s important to avoid exposing your guitar to extreme temperatures. If you’re travelling with your guitar, make sure to keep it in a hard-shell case and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight.

5. Exposing your guitar to direct sunlight

Direct sunlight can also damage the finish of your guitar. UV rays from the sun can cause the colour of the finish to fade, and over time, the finish will begin to crack and peel.

If you’re storing your guitar in a sunny room, make sure to keep it away from any windows or direct sunlight. We recommend using a guitar-specific UV protector to help prevent any damage to the finish when playing outside.

6. Playing without a strap

While it may seem harmless, playing your guitar without a strap can cause damage to the finish. The buckles and buttons on your clothing can scratch the finish, leaving unsightly marks on your guitar.

To prevent this, we recommend always using a strap when playing your guitar. Make sure to position the strap correctly to avoid any unnecessary pressure on the guitar’s neck or body.

Wrapping Up

By avoiding some of these seemingly innocent finish mistakes, you can ensure that your guitar looks and plays its best for years to come. Remember to clean your guitar regularly, use the right polishing products, store it correctly, and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight. And always use a strap when playing your guitar to prevent any unnecessary damage to the finish.

FAQ

Can I use any type of polish to clean my guitar?

No, not all polishes are suitable for use on a guitar. It’s important to use a guitar-specific polish that will not only clean and protect the finish but also enhance its appearance.

What is the best way to store my guitar?

The best way to store your guitar is in a sturdy hard-shell case or a guitar stand that is designed to support the weight of the guitar. Make sure to keep your guitar in a cool, dry place to avoid any damage to the finish.

Can playing without a strap really cause damage to the finish?

Yes, playing your guitar without a strap can cause damage to the finish. The buckles and buttons on your clothing can scratch the finish, leaving unsightly marks on your guitar.

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“Are You Ruining Your Guitar with These Seemingly Innocent Finish Mistakes?”