Musical instruments are large investments! But despite the expensive cost, your instrument can last a lifetime if you take care of it properly. For most people, it’s not feasible to keep your guitar, drums, amps, and other instruments and equipment at home. Fortunately, storage facilities are great places to safely store your instruments.

Unlike other household items, musical instruments are very delicate. It’s important to take good care of them when they’re in storage. This means properly preparing your instrument before you put it away long-term. For this type of situation, it’s not enough to simply store it. If you want to keep it in pristine condition, you need to protect it from dust, dirt, sunlight, moisture, insects, extreme temperatures, and accidental damage.

How to prepare…
Here are the steps you need to take before you put your drum kit into storage. 

1. Get the necessary supplies.
Drum kits take up a lot of space. In order to properly pack them, you need a large, strong box, padded cases to store the cymbals and their stands, one smaller box for the pedals, bubble wrap, packing paper and tape, foam peanuts, labels, and a Sharpie. 

2. Take the drum kit apart.
Once you have your supplies, you can take apart your drum kit. Label the smaller parts so you don’t lose track of them. Next, wrap the legs in bubble wrap. Remove the heads, and separate the cymbals and stands. 

3. Pack the drums.
Secure the box by taping the bottom side, pouring peanuts into the box, and putting everything inside. Make sure the different parts of the drum kit are spaced out and don’t rub against each other. This could result in accidental damage. 

4. Fill up the box.
Fill in any empty space with foam peanuts or packing paper to make sure the drums fit snugly. Seal the top of the box tightly with packing tape. Make sure the box is taped securely. 

5. Pack the cymbals and pedals.
Put the cymbals and pedals in their respective cases. Wrap each pedal in bubble wrap first.

Drum kits are sensitive to humidity, temperature fluctuations, and dryness. Because of this, you should always keep an eye on your instruments while they’re in storage. In addition, makes sure you purchase enough insurance to cover your instruments in case of damage or theft.