How to Take Care of Your Cello Case

Cello cases can be a big expense, so learning how to best take care of them is essential in getting your money's worth. Here are a few tips we have learned over the years:

1. Those marks on the front of your case are most likely just paint transfers from bumping against door jambs, and not actual scratches in the finish of your case. The easier, quickest, least harmful way to remove the marks, and have your case looking brand new again, is with a soft cloth and some alcohol. Any kind of alcohol will work. 

2. We all hate velcro because it wears out over time. This is our all-time favorite piece of advice to owners of velcro closures; be a peeler, not a ripper. When you rip velcro apart quickly, it hastens the straightening of the 'loop' side of the velcro. Instead, stick your finger between the two pieces of velcro, and gently, slowly peel them apart. 

3. Your backpack straps are replaceable for a reason; they are going to eventually wear out and be at risk of failure. You do NOT want your cello case falling off your back. In many instances, the neck will break. So check your straps every day, and be sure you are using redundant security cables in case your hardware breaks. See that link for photos of the typical breaking spot.

4. Don't let your cat or dog use the open case as a bed! Hair, especially from short haired animals, is almost impossible to get out of the case. Plus if you want to sell the case (or return your rental!) the next owner is not going to be too happy with all the hair.

5. The hardware on your case; handles, buckles, snaps, hinges, latches, and wheels are all parts that can eventually require replacement. Some are easier to replace than others. A shop like Linda West Cellos can service any case model that we sell, and can replace most parts with the original manufacturer parts. Depending on where you live, there may not be anyone around who will know how to do these replacements, so the kinder you are to your case, the longer these parts will last. 

6. Don't leave your case open near any heat source, including a sunny window. Depending on the material that your case is made of, it may warp from the heat. If you want your case to always maintain its shape, and close easily, keep it closed when you aren't using it. 

7. If you have purchased a lightweight, carbon case like an Accord or Musilia, be very careful when closing it. These lightweight cases are not ideal for people who are in a hurry, or kids. You must ensure that the case is closed properly into the groove (whichever side that is on) and that you carefully latch it making sure that at each latch point the case is securely seated. If you have to force the latch, something is not right. You will either break the case, bend or break the latch, or deform the case. 

8. Your cello is valuable. Do a pre-flight inspection on your case before each use. Check that the handle is still securely fastened to the case. If you are using extra security cables on your straps, make sure they are still screwed tight. Check the clips on the ends of the straps for cracks or potential breaking. Check that your straps are not frayed or twisted. Check that the rubber feet haven't fallen off. Check your wheels if you have them. If you need repairs, a luggage dealer who does repairs may be able to help you.