I like to think about finely crafted guitars as living organisms. The top and back thicknesses are less than 3 mm, and depending on the model down to 2.4 mm around the edges. There is a lot of surface area that is interacting with the atmosphere and is under roughly 150 lbs of string pressure: it is a fine balance of structural and sonic engineering. As the original owner of a Benavides guitar you have a warranty that assures the quality of craftsmanship of your guitar for as long as you are the original owner. Here are some things to keep in mind for its care. Any work done aside from changing strings and general cleaning should be done by a recognized professional repair person.

Cleaning

Use a soft cotton cloth free of any debris to remove any dust from the guitar. When a more extensive cleaning is needed, fill a small dish with gently warmed soapy water ( liquid dish soap ). This can be used to wipe down any grime or oily surfaces. Ensure you have a clean and dry cotton cloth to fully dry all surfaces. Do not do this to the fretboard. A cotton cloth should be able to rub off any grime from the fretboard. A very light wipe-down with boiled linseed oil can be applied there occasionally. Wipe it clean and dry after application. No polishes or waxes should be used on the guitar.

Changing Strings

Release tension from the strings with the tuning pegs and lever or pull the bridge pins out. Notice they are scribed with a number to correlate to their respective hole. If they are solid ( not slotted ) pins they will have a snug fit. If you do not have a tool to do this, reach inside of the guitar and push them out from the inside with one hand and hold the pin with the other so it does not pop out and onto the guitar. Remove the strings. Now is a good time to clean the soundboard, headstock, and fretboard.

When restringing a slotted headstock I wind the strings towards the outside of the headstock. This keeps the strings, mainly the 3rd and 4th, from damaging the finished edge of the headstock. With solid pins be mindful of the fit. I put the ball end of the string in and hold it in position from inside the guitar while the other hand pushes in the pin. When tuning I check the fit of the pin every few turn to ensure the pin has not been pulled out by the friction of the string upon it. Although this may seem like more work I think the coupling between the pin, string, and bridge are worth it sonically.

Storage/ Humidity

The guitar has been carefully constructed in a climate-controlled workshop which is kept between 40 - 50 % relative humidity. It is recommended that the guitar is kept in a similar environment. A simple digital hygrometer ( although not totally accurate ) can help you to stay aware of the humidity for about $10. Typically, if the environment feels comfortable for you then it will be for your guitar as well. There are many products available online that can be kept with the guitar in its case to help regulate the amount of moisture it is exposed to. Do not leave the guitar in a parked car; excessive heat can damage your guitar.

These guitars will easily see 100 years or more with little maintenance and thoughtful care.

Please enjoy, share, and use them to enrich yours and the lives around you.