Protecting Your Instrument in Dry Climates: Essential Humidification Tips
Many of our customers in dry climates—especially in Colorado—ask about the best ways to humidify their violin, viola, or cello. We love that they do because proper humidity control is crucial for both the short- and long-term health of your instrument.
Dry air can cause the spruce top of your instrument to shrink, and in extreme cases, this can lead to cracks. During the winter months, indoor and outdoor humidity levels can drop to dangerously low levels, putting your instrument at risk. To prevent damage, we strongly recommend maintaining a humidity level of at least 35% year-round.
Our Top Humidification Recommendations
At StringWorks, we use and recommend several humidification methods to keep instruments safe, especially during dry seasons:
1. Whole-Room Humidifiers – A great option for maintaining consistent humidity throughout your home. Not only does this benefit your instrument, but it also improves respiratory health and overall comfort.
2. Boveda Two-Way Humidity Control Packets – These relatively new yet highly effective packets are a favorite of ours. They help regulate humidity inside your case, preventing both excessive dryness and excessive moisture. Convenient and widely available online, we recommend purchasing multi-packs to stay prepared throughout the seasons.
What to Do If Your Instrument’s Seams Open
Your instrument’s seams are designed to open slightly if it experiences excessive shrinkage or expansion. While this might seem alarming, it’s actually a safety mechanism—far preferable to the alternative: a cracked top.
If you notice an open seam, don’t panic! However, if the top itself splits, take immediate action:
• Loosen all strings to relieve tension.
• Contact us or your local luthier right away to prevent further damage.
Taking the right precautions will help keep your instrument in peak condition, no matter the climate. If you have any questions or need specific recommendations, feel free to reach out—we’re always happy to help!
