Violin Humidity Control System - Boveda 49% RH Packets
Today is extremely cold. Vermont temperatures plunge into the low single digits—snow falls as I tuck myself inside with my violin.
I came downstairs this morning, and the strings were loose over the top of the instrument—a bad sign! My poor violin is reacting to the low humidity that comes with freezing temperatures.
Failure to act could be devastating to my instruments. Dry weather can cause maple and spruce to contract.
Seams can open, pegs can become loose and sloppy, and tone can dull and lose vibrancy. Or worse! Spruce may even crack, requiring an expensive and devaluing repair!
In this video, Oren Kronick from Vermont Violins explains why proper humidification is essential for stringed instruments and demonstrates how the Boveda humidification system can protect your violin from costly damage.
A room humidifier is ideal, but a case humidifier is often more practical and reliable. We highly recommend the Boveda system.
Boveda packs have two components, so they are simple. A sleeve and an insert. The sleeve lasts forever; you simply replace the insert when it expires.
The insert is basically salt water in a special wrap that lets moisture escape into your case. It also works as a de-humidifier for times of the year when humidity rises to unsafe levels. Each Boveda pack is calibrated to target a specific humidity, 49% for instruments
After about 1-2 months of use in dry weather, the Boveda insert will become dry and crusty. Just throw it away and replace it with a fresh insert—they are only a few dollars. The beauty of the system is that, unlike
Unlike most humidifiers, Boveda requires no daily attention—just check occasionally to see if it needs replacing.
Note that a single B hop Veda will suffice for violins
And violas. Larger instruments like cellos would need two to fully function. You'll need a hard shell case.
Give your instrument the best—choose Boveda. They are inexpensive and easy to use, and Vermont violins has found them to be the most effective!
FAQs: Boveda Violin Humidity Control System
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Violins require 45-55% relative humidity for optimal protection. Boveda 49% RH packets maintain this ideal range automatically, preventing damage from both dry and humid conditions.
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Low humidity causes wood to contract, leading to:
Loose, rattling strings
Open seams and separations
Loose, sloppy pegs
Dull, lifeless tone
Cracked spruce (requiring expensive repairs that devalue your instrument)
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Boveda uses a salt-water solution in a breathable pouch that automatically releases or absorbs moisture. It's a two-way system—it humidifies when air is too dry and dehumidifies when moisture levels are too high.
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Boveda inserts typically last 1-2 months in extreme climates like Vermont winters. In moderate conditions, they last longer. Replace when the packet becomes rigid and crusty.
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No. Boveda requires zero daily maintenance. Unlike traditional humidifiers, you never refill or recharge them—just check occasionally and replace the insert when it's dried out.
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Violin & Viola: 1 packet per case
Cello: 2 packets per case
Hard shell case required for proper function
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The system has two simple components:
Sleeve: Permanent holder (reuse forever)
Insert: Replaceable humidity packet (replace every 1-2 months)
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No. The sleeve is essential for proper function. Always use Boveda inserts inside their protective sleeve.
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While room humidifiers help, case humidifiers like Boveda offer more reliable, consistent protection. Boveda travels with your instrument and maintains precise humidity regardless of room conditions.
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Boveda replacement inserts cost only a few dollars each, making them an affordable insurance policy against costly instrument repairs.
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Yes! Boveda's two-way technology also dehumidifies, protecting your instrument when humidity rises to unsafe levels during humid months.
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49% RH is calibrated specifically for wooden string instruments, preventing both dry-weather cracking and moisture-related damage. This precise level keeps maple and spruce stable year-round.
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The insert becomes dry, rigid, and crusty when depleted. Simply discard it and insert a fresh replacement—no guessing required.
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No. Cigar humidifiers use different humidity levels. Always use Boveda 49% RH packets specifically designed for musical instruments.
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Yes. By maintaining consistent 45-55% humidity, Boveda significantly reduces the risk of wood cracking, seam separation, and other humidity-related damage that requires expensive repairs.
