Changing Strings
Five simple steps turn a dead-sounding guitar into a fresh one. Click through the process below.
Before you start
Change strings one at a time (or in small groups) if you're worried about a sudden shift in neck tension, especially on guitars with a floating bridge. Have a string winder, cutters, and the new set ready before you begin.
The general process
The five steps below cover the full cycle: loosen and remove the old string, clean underneath it, install the new one at the right tension, stretch and re-tune it, then repeat that tuning check over the following days as it settles. Click through each step for the details.
Why new strings need a few tunings to settle
Fresh strings stretch slightly under tension for the first day or two of play, which pulls them out of tune repeatedly at first. Gently stretching each string by hand after installing it (and re-tuning) speeds up this settling process considerably.
Common questions
How often should I change guitar strings?
It depends on how much you play, but a common rule of thumb is every 1-3 months for regular players, or sooner if strings look corroded or sound noticeably dull.
Why do new strings go out of tune so quickly?
New strings stretch slightly under tension when first played, and that stretching pulls them flat repeatedly until they fully settle in over the first several tunings.
Should I change all the strings at once or one at a time?
Many players change them one at a time to keep some tension on the neck throughout, though changing the full set at once is also fine on most guitars, especially if you're doing a full cleaning underneath.
How do you speed up new strings settling in?
Gently stretch each string by hand (pulling it slightly away from the fretboard) after installing it, then re-tune — repeating this a few times gets a string to hold pitch much faster than just waiting it out.
Master your instrument, inside and out
Melody Monkey pairs playing lessons with the gear knowledge to keep your guitar in top shape.
Open the free app →Still stuck? Ask Your Personal Music Teacher about Changing Strings →