Leaving an acoustic guitar without strings is a common practice among guitarists. Some do it to avoid the hassle of constantly tuning and maintaining their instruments, while others simply forget to restring their guitars. However, the question remains: is it bad to leave an acoustic guitar without strings?
Understanding the structure of an acoustic guitar is crucial in answering this question. The strings of a guitar provide tension that keeps the neck straight and the bridge in place.
Without strings, the guitar’s neck can warp, causing damage to the instrument’s overall structure. Additionally, the lack of tension on the bridge can cause it to lift, leading to cracks or other damage.
Key Takeaways on Is it Bad to Leave an Acoustic Guitar Without Strings?
- Leaving an acoustic guitar without strings can cause damage to its structure.
- Proper long-term storage for acoustic guitars includes loosening the strings to reduce tension, but not completely removing them.
- Restringing and tuning your acoustic guitar regularly is essential for maintaining its health and sound quality.
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Understanding the Structure of an Acoustic Guitar

The Neck and Truss Rod
The neck of an acoustic guitar is a long, thin piece of wood that runs from the body of the guitar to the headstock. It is attached to the body of the guitar at the 14th fret, where the neck meets the body.
The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar and is used to adjust the curvature of the neck. The truss rod is important because it helps to keep the neck straight and prevent it from bowing or warping over time.
The Top and Bridge
The top of an acoustic guitar is the part of the guitar that vibrates and produces sound. It is made of a thin piece of wood that is carefully selected for its tonal qualities. The bridge is the piece of wood that sits on the top of the guitar and holds the strings in place.
The bridge is also important because it transfers the vibrations of the strings to the top of the guitar, which produces sound.
String Tension and Counter Tension
String tension and counter tension are important concepts to understand when it comes to acoustic guitars. String tension refers to the amount of force that the strings exert on the neck and body of the guitar.
Counter tension refers to the amount of force that the neck and body of the guitar exert on the strings. When a guitar is properly strung and tuned, the tension and counter tension are balanced.
Leaving an acoustic guitar without strings can cause the neck to bow or warp over time because there is no counter tension to balance the tension of the truss rod. It is generally not recommended to leave an acoustic guitar without strings for an extended period of time.
Effects of Leaving an Acoustic Guitar Without Strings

Leaving an acoustic guitar without strings for an extended period of time can have several effects on the instrument. In this section, we will discuss the potential damage to the guitar neck, changes in action, and the risk of back bow.
1. Potential Damage to the Guitar Neck
When a guitar is left without strings, the tension that is normally exerted on the neck is absent. This can cause the neck to warp or twist, which can lead to serious damage to the instrument.
The neck of an acoustic guitar is designed to withstand the tension of the strings, and without this tension, the neck can become weakened and prone to damage.
2. Changes in Action
The action of a guitar refers to the distance between the strings and the fretboard. When a guitar is left without strings, the action can change.
The fretboard can become warped or twisted, causing the strings to sit higher or lower than they should. This can make it difficult to play the guitar and can cause the strings to buzz or rattle against the frets.
3. Risk of Back Bow
Back bow is a condition where the neck of the guitar bows inwards towards the strings. This can occur when the tension of the strings is absent for an extended period of time.
Back bow can cause the strings to sit too close to the fretboard, making it difficult to play the guitar. In severe cases, back bow can cause the neck to crack or break.
Proper Long-Term Storage for Acoustic Guitars

Choosing the Right Guitar Case
When it comes to storing an acoustic guitar for an extended period, choosing the right case is essential.
A hard-shell case is the best option for long-term storage as it provides the most protection against external factors such as temperature changes, humidity, and physical damage. Soft-shell cases are not recommended for long-term storage as they do not offer the same level of protection.
It is also crucial to ensure that the guitar fits snugly inside the case. A case that is too big can cause the guitar to shift around, potentially causing damage to the instrument.
Regulating Humidity and Temperature
Humidity and temperature regulation are critical factors to consider when storing an acoustic guitar long-term. High humidity levels can cause the wood to swell, while low humidity levels can cause the wood to dry out and crack. The ideal humidity level for an acoustic guitar is between 45% and 55%.
Temperature is also a crucial factor to consider when storing an acoustic guitar. Extreme temperatures can cause the wood to warp or crack. The ideal temperature range for long-term storage is between 60°F and 70°F.
To regulate humidity and temperature, it is recommended to use a hygrometer and thermometer inside the guitar case. Additionally, using a humidifier or dehumidifier can help maintain the ideal humidity level.
Long-Term Storage Checklist
To ensure proper long-term storage of an acoustic guitar, the following checklist should be followed:
- Choose a hard-shell case that fits the guitar snugly.
- Regulate humidity levels between 45% and 55% using a hygrometer and humidifier or dehumidifier.
- Maintain a temperature range between 60°F and 70°F using a thermometer.
- Store the guitar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and sources of heat.
- Check the guitar periodically to ensure that it is not experiencing any damage or changes in humidity or temperature.
By following these guidelines, an acoustic guitar can be stored safely and securely for an extended period, ensuring that it remains in excellent condition for years to come.
Restringing and Tuning Your Acoustic Guitar

When to Restring
It is important to restring your acoustic guitar regularly to maintain its sound quality and playability.
The frequency of restringing depends on factors such as how often you play, the type of strings you use, and the environment in which you store your guitar. As a general rule, it is recommended to restring your guitar every 3-6 months.
You should also consider restringing your guitar if you notice any of the following signs:
- The strings are discolored or have a dull appearance
- The strings feel rough or have noticeable wear marks
- The guitar does not stay in tune
- The sound quality has deteriorated
How to Tune Properly
Tuning your guitar is an essential part of maintaining its sound quality. To tune your guitar, you will need a reliable tuner or tuning app, which can be easily found online or at your local music store.
Begin by placing your guitar on a flat surface and turning on your tuner. Play each string one at a time, starting with the thickest string (E) and working your way down to the thinnest string (E). Adjust the tuning pegs until the tuner indicates that the string is in tune.
It is important to note that tuning your guitar is not a one-time process. You should tune your guitar every time you play, as changes in temperature and humidity can cause the strings to go out of tune.
Additional Care Tips for Acoustic Guitars

1. Cleaning Your Guitar
Keeping your acoustic guitar clean is essential to maintaining its good condition. Regular cleaning helps to prevent dirt, dust, and sweat buildup, which can damage the guitar’s finish and hardware over time.
To clean your guitar, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the body, neck, and strings after each use. You can also use a slightly damp cloth to remove stubborn dirt or grime, but be sure to dry the guitar thoroughly afterward.
2. Protecting from Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause significant damage to your acoustic guitar, including warping, cracking, and discoloration.
To protect your guitar from sunlight, store it in a cool, dry place away from windows or other sources of direct light. If you must leave your guitar in a sunny area, cover it with a cloth or a guitar case to shield it from the sun’s harmful rays.
3. Maintaining Good Condition
Maintaining good condition is crucial to keeping your acoustic guitar in top shape. Regularly inspect your guitar for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, scratches, or loose hardware. If you notice any issues, take your guitar to a professional technician for repairs.
Additionally, keep your guitar in a stable environment with moderate humidity levels to prevent damage from fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
Different Types of Guitars and Their Storage Needs

1. Electric Guitars
Electric guitars are designed to be played with amplifiers, and they require a different type of storage compared to acoustic guitars. When it comes to storing electric guitars, it is important to keep them away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
Electric guitars should be stored in a cool, dry place, and it is best to keep them in a hard-shell case when not in use.
2. Classical Guitars
Classical guitars are typically made of wood and are more delicate than electric guitars. They are also more susceptible to changes in temperature and humidity.
To prevent damage to the guitar, it is best to store it in a case with a humidifier. This will help maintain the proper level of humidity and prevent the wood from drying out.
3. Bass Guitars

Bass guitars are similar to electric guitars in terms of storage needs. They should be kept in a cool, dry place and stored in a hard-shell case when not in use. It is also important to keep them away from moisture and extreme temperatures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an acoustic guitar be stored without strings?
Yes, an acoustic guitar can be stored without strings. However, it is recommended to loosen the strings first to reduce tension on the neck.
How long can you store an acoustic guitar without strings?
An acoustic guitar can be stored without strings for an extended period of time, but it is recommended to not exceed six months.
What are the effects of leaving an acoustic guitar without strings?
Leaving an acoustic guitar without strings can cause the neck to warp or twist due to the lack of tension on the truss rod. It can also cause the bridge to lift and the soundboard to crack.
Is it recommended to leave an acoustic guitar without strings?
It is not recommended to leave an acoustic guitar without strings for an extended period of time. Loosening the strings is acceptable for short-term storage, but it is best to keep the guitar strung and tuned when possible.
Can storing an acoustic guitar without strings damage it?
Storing an acoustic guitar without strings can cause damage to the neck, bridge, and soundboard. It is important to take proper precautions when storing a guitar to avoid any potential damage.
What is the best way to store an acoustic guitar without strings?
The best way to store an acoustic guitar without strings is to keep it in a case with a humidifier to maintain proper humidity levels. It is also recommended to store the guitar in a cool, dry place to prevent any warping or cracking.

My name is Howard Matthews and I have been playing the guitar since I was knee-high. My parents like to joke that I was pulling the strings even before I was born. In fact, one of my earliest memories is sitting on the couch with my dad’s guitar, wreaking havoc on the chords.
Now, 40 years later, I can attest that I play them much better than I did back then. I have followed in the footsteps of both my parents – much to their delight – and have been the main guitarist in my band for the best part of three decades.
Music has always been my passion, and until recently my life has been so consumed with it that I haven’t had a moment to have a breath (and I wouldn’t have it any other way)!