Level 4 · Musician · 20 min
Care for your guitar
By the end you can clean the strings, inspect your nails and check storage conditions.
Before this lesson
Lesson steps
1 Wipe the strings
Wipe all six strings with a soft dry cloth.
4 min
Check for · You have wiped every string with the cloth after playing.
More detail
Fingers leave residue on the strings. A soft dry cloth removes it after playing. Wipe each string.
2 Check the string type
Read the label on your spare string set before opening it.
4 min
Check for · You can find the classical-guitar label on a set compatible with your model.
More detail
A classical set is labelled as such on the packet. Bass strings can have a metal winding over a flexible core. Check compatibility with your model.
3 Fingertip contact
Test the edge of each nail you use on string 1.
4 min
Check for · The string releases smoothly from each finger used.
More detail
With nails, polish only the rough edge. If you play with fingertips, compare string release from i and m.
4 Read the hygrometer
Find the relative-humidity range recommended for your guitar.
4 min
Check for · With a hygrometer you can tell whether its reading is in the maker’s range.
More detail
A hygrometer measures relative humidity. Wood responds to changes in humidity. The maker gives the recommended range for your instrument.
5 A place for the case
Place the guitar in its closed case at the chosen spot.
4 min
Check for · The case is closed, stable and away from heaters and direct sunlight.
More detail
A heater warms the air close to it. A sunny window also heats a case. A spot with a stable temperature protects the instrument better.
You can move on when…
You pass when all six strings are wiped, finger contact is checked and the case is stored in a suitable place.
If a movement feels difficult
The cloth leaves damp marks.
Use a soft dry cloth for the strings.
The case heats up near the window.
Move it to a stable place away from direct sun.