I’ve seen a few threads recently about flute storage and thought I’d share my solution (see below). I use a fishing lure / bait storage box with adjustable partitions and cut v-notches in everything to allow the humidifiers to do their stuff. I use a “dampit” and pill bottles with sponges inserted and holes drilled in the top as my humidifiers. This arrangement usually keeps my flute humidified to about 60% in the winter and up to 70% at other times of the year (I live in northern West Virginia, btw). I lined the compartments with fleece material and keep a digital humidifier in the box. Hope this helps those of you looking for a storage solution that keeps your baby happy. Oh yeah, that’s a John Gallagher Pratten in the box…
Thanks for sharing some great ideas there.
I’m curious to know what the humidity in WV is typically in Winter and Summer?
What’s the ‘danger number’ for wooden Flutes?
Where I am in New South Wales, Australia is typically between 40% and 70% indoors year round in my music room which I try to isolate from air conditioning and central heating. 40% if it hasn’t rained in a while, 70% if it is raining.
This is very helpful, both in the humidifying approach described and pictured and in the percentages of humidity recommended.
Here’s my question. Our house in Vermont stays at between 50 and 65% humidity, with the windows open in the summer and an air-exchange system controlling for humidity in the winter. Is there any problem with just leaving the flute out on a stand during the daytime as long as it’s not in the direct light? I find that having it out and ready to go makes it more likely that I’ll play it several times a day. But I don’t want to take a chance with the instrument if always putting it back in the case is a safer approach.
