How to keep your instruments worth selling: cases, care, storage

Mistake: a cheap case and a shed will cut resale value fast.

What’s going on

Musical gear loses value when it looks or sounds bad. Small damage and bad upkeep are the usual killers. You can stop most of that with low-effort steps.

Why it matters

If you keep gear in better shape, you sell it faster and for more. Buyers (and shops) check finish, hardware, and playability first. A clean instrument with the original case and receipts brings a big premium.

What to check and keep now

Check these areas on every instrument you own. Clean, tighten, and document. If a part is worn, note it — honest notes help resale.

• Case: use a hard case for higher-end gear; padded gig bags are fine for practice instruments.

• Interior: keep foam and lining dry; replace torn padding to stop dents and chips.

• Hardware: wipe metal parts after use to prevent rust and corrosion build-up.

• Necks and frets: keep humidity stable to avoid warps; polish frets lightly when needed.

• Electronics: plug and tap jacks, pots, and switches; fix crackles early before corrosion spreads.

• Finish: remove sweat and grime after each session; use a soft cloth and product made for the finish type.

• Records: keep a photo of serial numbers and a dated maintenance note for big repairs.

Micro-moment: You meet a buyer in a cafe. You bring the instrument in its case. You hand over the photo of the serial number and the maintenance note. That small proof often closes the sale on the spot.

Storage and humidity tips

Store instruments where temperature and moisture are steady. Avoid basements and attics that swing from cold to hot. Use a room humidifier or a case humidifier for wooden instruments during dry months. For electric instruments, keep them in a case or on a stand away from direct sunlight.

Maintenance that protects value

Basic care keeps big problems away. Change strings before long storage. Do small setups to keep action and intonation right. Replace worn pads or straps; they’re cheap and they show buyers you cared. For higher-end instruments, get a pro setup once a year or before selling.

Red flags buyers notice fast

Scratches and dings are visual hits but can be expected. Warped necks, fret wear past dressable limits, or corroded electronics drop value much more. Missing original case, missing bridge pieces, or chopped headstocks are deal-breakers for many buyers.

Bottom line: what to do this weekend

Make a short plan and act. Clean the instrument, take photos, write a short note listing recent repairs and dates, and store it in a proper case. Small moves now often save hundreds later.

If it won’t stay in tune through a short play test, assume there’s a reason and negotiate from that risk.

Today’s takeaway: A solid case, steady humidity, and simple notes on maintenance sell instruments faster and for more.