Putting your piano in storage is an excellent way to keep it in great condition for later use -- but it must be properly primed before you close the door on that storage unit. Following are five things that you need to do before putting your piano in storage. 

Select a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit The first step in successfully storing your piano is selecting the right storage unit. Damp conditions and fluctuating temperatures can wreak havoc on the way a piano looks and sounds -- keep in mind that your piano is made mostly of wood and is therefore negatively affected by both humidity and temperature fluctuations. Soundboards are particularly vulnerable to damage caused by the cycle of swelling and shrinking caused by fluctuating humidity levels, but other parts of the instrument are affected as well. Choose a climate-controlled storage unit to ensure that your piano is in the best possible environment. 

Clean the Piano Always clean your piano well before putting it into storage. Carefully use a feather duster to remove dust -- never use a dry cloth for this purpose because you run the risk of damaging the instrument's finish. You can also dust with a slightly damp, very soft cloth such as flannel or chamois. Filtered water is best because minerals in tap water may harm the finish of the piano, and if you live in an area where municipal tap water has high concentrations of chlorine, your piano's finish may be discolored by exposure to the water. 

Document the Instrument's Condition ​Take clear photographs of the piano from all angles before putting it into storage. This way, you've got a record if anything gets damaged while the instrument is in storage. Don't forget to photograph the inside of the piano and the piano bench. 

Cover the Piano With Soft Fabric

Soft blankets or other pieces of fabric are ideal for covering pianos while in storage because they'll protect them from dust and other potential environmental hazards. You may be tempted to cover the instrument with a piece of sturdy plastic, but keep in mind that plastic doesn't provide the necessary air circulation that objects made of wood require, and plastic coverings may have sharp edges that can damage the piano's finish. 

Hire Professional Piano Movers  The last step in successfully storing your piano is to hire professional movers who have substantial experience in moving pianos. Pianos are large, fragile, and heavy, and professional piano movers, such as those at Extreme Piano Moving, will know the necessary tricks of the trade to make the move go as smoothly as possible. Besides the necessary expertise, they will also have the right equipment and vehicles necessary for moving pianos without causing damage to the instruments.   

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