Avoid Extremes of Temperature and Humidity
Never leave your instrument in a car, trunk, or in direct sunlight!
Heat
- Glue softens — your instrument can fall apart.
- Rosin melts and bonds to varnish.
- Bow hair and wood dry out.
- Bow can warp badly.
Cold
- Wood can dry out and crack.
- Bow hair becomes brittle and breaks.
Keep your instrument at normal room temperature and humidity. If the air is dry, use a humidifier designed for your instrument or case.
Always Remember To
- Wash hands before touching your instrument.
- Loosen bow hair before storing to prevent stretching.
- Never over-tighten bow hair — a pencil should fit between hair and stick.
- Avoid touching bow hair; dirt or grease will ruin it.
- Don't tune with pegs unless trained — strings can snap easily.
Cleaning
- Keep a soft cotton cloth in your case. Wipe the instrument after playing to remove rosin before it bonds to varnish.
- About once a month, use cleaner and polish made for stringed instruments. Never use furniture polish.
Storage
- Always put your instrument in its case when not in use.
- Store cellos on their side or in a corner with the bridge facing in.
- Store basses in a corner with the bridge facing in.
- Make sure the case is latched or zipped before moving it.
- Carry cello/bass with neck on shoulder, bridge facing you — protects from bumps.
Most Important:
Treat your instrument with care and love.