this may sound stupid, but is it 'safe' or entirely stupid to store my guitars in cases when not in use? I have both my electric and acoustic/electro in cases....the reason I ask is that I don't know much about temperatures or the proper one to store instruments in.
If you keep the case in the trunk of your car, then no - it's not safe.
If the case is in your home, which has AC and heat when needed, then they should be fine.
As far as I can tell, the worst place for a guitar is a party where anyone can play it.
Definitely keep your good guitars in their cases, and bring out the beaters for your guests.
I had a misfortune while playing guitar at a party. While I was playing, the drunk guy proceeded to trip on the rug and was about to fall headfirst onto the coffee table right onto his empty beer bottles. I reached out to help and while bending over the coffee table the guitar clanged down right on the edge. One slip and the guitar now has a gouge. Fortunately the guitar's owner understands what happened, although he isn't happy about it.
On the other hand, I found a superb guitar for him for $300 that he absolutely loves.
http://cgi.ebay.com/Samick-Les-Paul-Custom-w-DiMarzio-Pickups-Must-Read_W0QQitemZ7421074072QQcategoryZ113482QQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
1 watt of pure tube tone - the Living Room Amp!
http://www.naturdoctor.com/Chapters/Amps/LivingRoomAmp.html
Paper-in-oil caps rule!
