5 Things You Should Never Store In Your Bathroom Cabinets

The bathroom, despite often being perceived as a convenient storage spot, is not an ideal environment for many household items due to its inherent heat and humidity. Professional organizers Alyssa Trosclair, Melanie Caffee, and Matt Celentano highlight ten categories of items that should generally be stored elsewhere to prevent damage, mildew, and other issues. Linens and towels, particularly spare ones, are susceptible to mildew in the bathroom's moist atmosphere. While bath towels used regularly might be acceptable, extra sheets and blankets should be kept in a separate, dry closet or dresser. Storing infrequently used linens in the bathroom can lead to mold growth and even attract rodents over time, as the items don't get cycled or aired out. Similarly, clothing, especially out-of-season garments stored for extended periods, can become a breeding ground for mildew and other problems due to the fluctuating temperature and moisture. Medicine bottles frequently advise storage in a cool, dry place, a description that rarely fits a bathroom. Experts caution against keeping medication in typical medicine cabinets, particularly in poorly ventilated bathrooms, unless the cabinet is specifically designed to ward off moisture. Additionally, medicine should be stored out of reach of children, not in low drawers or cabinets. Electronics are also vulnerable to the bathroom's conditions. Unless an electronic device is explicitly waterproof, the humidity and risk of direct water contact can cause significant damage. Investing in waterproof alternatives, such as a waterproof speaker, is recommended for bathroom use. Jewelry is another item best stored outside the bathroom. The high humidity can cause tarnishing, and the risk of items falling into open drains is ever-present. However, storing a few everyday pieces in the bathroom for convenience is generally acceptable, as they are worn regularly and not exposed to the humidity for prolonged periods. Cleaning supplies, while often kept under the bathroom sink, should also be reviewed. Certain chemical formulas require cooler, drier storage conditions, and bulk paper products like paper towels and tissues can degrade quickly in high humidity before they are even opened. Makeup storage in the bathroom is only advisable for items used daily. Products that are not regularly rotated can suffer from the heat and humidity, leading to spoilage. Long-term makeup storage, especially for a large collection that isn't frequently used, is strongly discouraged. Photographs and media, such as film, CDs, books, and magazines, are extremely vulnerable to moisture damage. Photos can stick together and to frames, and other media can warp or mold. Therefore, these sentimental or valuable items should never be stored in the bathroom. Even books or magazines kept for casual reading should be frequently cycled to prevent damage. Memorabilia and heirloom furniture also fall into the category of items to avoid storing in the bathroom. Sentimental artifacts, often stored for long periods without frequent handling, can easily develop mold and mildew in the humid environment. Painted wooden furniture and particleboard pieces, common in antiques and vintage items, are prone to warping, peeling, and degradation when exposed to the bathroom's conditions. In essence, any item that isn't regularly used and rotated, or that is sensitive to moisture and temperature fluctuations, should find a home outside the bathroom to ensure its longevity and integrity. #BathroomStorage #HomeOrganization #StorageTips #MoistureDamage #HouseholdItems #ProfessionalOrganizers #HomeCare # mildewPrevention #humidityEffects

The bathroom, characterized by its enclosed spaces and high humidity, provides an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth. This makes it crucial to consider carefully what items are stored there, beyond just everyday essentials. Storing certain items in the bathroom can lead to damage from humidity and heat, or even potential health hazards due to bacterial exposure. This guide outlines ten categories of items that should ideally be kept out of the bathroom and suggests alternative storage locations to ensure their longevity and maintain a healthier home environment. Firstly, medications, including vitamins and supplements, should not be stored in the bathroom. Manufacturers typically recommend a cool, dry place for these products, as high heat and humidity can significantly reduce their effectiveness and shelf life. Instead, a hallway linen closet, a bedroom drawer, or a kitchen cabinet near a water source are more suitable options, promoting both preservation and adherence to daily routines. Secondly, extra linens such as guest towels, holiday-specific towels, blankets, sheet sets, and pillows are susceptible to mildew if stored long-term in the humid bathroom environment. While frequently used and washed towels are acceptable, additional fabric items are best kept in a linen closet, an armoire, or a spare bedroom dresser. Regular cleaning of shower curtains, bath mats, and bathrobes is also advised to prevent mold and mildew. Thirdly, backstock toiletries, especially those in open packaging like toilet paper and paper towels, can accumulate dust and bacteria and become mildewed. Bars of soap can melt prematurely, and metal cans for shaving creams, along with razors and replacement blades, can rust or dull faster in humid conditions. These items should be stored in a dry area elsewhere in the house until needed. Fourth, jewelry made of metal is prone to tarnishing quickly in humid conditions. While daily wear items can be temporarily placed on a vanity dish, all other jewelry should be stored in a jewelry box, a drawer organizer, or displayed on a wall in a bedroom or closet, away from the bathroom's moisture. Fifth, electronics, particularly those with metal components, are vulnerable to damage from humidity and water contact, risking short circuits or even fire hazards. Only waterproof versions of essential items like electric toothbrushes or Bluetooth speakers should be kept in the bathroom. Other hair tools and electronics should be stored in a linen closet or organized in a living room or office. Sixth, special occasion makeup and makeup brushes should not be stored in the bathroom. Although daily makeup application often occurs in the bathroom, humidity and temperature fluctuations can degrade cosmetic quality and effectiveness. The close proximity to the toilet also poses a risk of bacterial contamination. It is recommended to store makeup in a bag or drawer after use, always closing the toilet lid before flushing, and keeping occasional-use items in a makeup vanity elsewhere. Seventh, perfumes and nail polish are also adversely affected by heat and humidity, which can accelerate their expiration. Fragrances can lose potency and nail polishes can separate faster. These products are best kept in a linen closet or on a dresser or shelf in a drier room. Eighth, books, magazines, and photos should not be kept in the bathroom. Reading materials can attract mildew and germs, and framed pictures can develop mold under the glass due to moisture, ruining the prints. Books are better suited for bookshelves in living rooms or offices, and photos can be displayed on ledges throughout the climate-controlled areas of the home. Ninth, antiques and artwork are highly susceptible to damage from temperature and humidity fluctuations. These delicate items, which often require specific climate control for preservation, can warp (wood) or yellow (artwork) in a bathroom environment. Sentimental or valuable pieces should be displayed in climate-controlled areas of the home to ensure their longevity. Finally, most cleaning products, while some bathroom-specific ones can be stored under the sink safely if inaccessible to children and pets, are generally meant for cool, dry, and well-ventilated areas. Storing them in a utility closet is a safer and more effective option for maintaining their chemical integrity and preventing fumes accumulation in a confined space like a bathroom. #BathroomStorage #HomeOrganization #HumidityControl #HouseholdTips #ProductPreservation #HomeKeeping #Decluttering

Proper storage of food and household items is essential for maintaining freshness, extending shelf life, and ensuring kitchen safety. Chef Molly Gordon emphasizes that not all items belong in kitchen cabinets, despite common practice. This article outlines seven specific items that should not be stored in cabinets and suggests appropriate alternatives to prevent spoilage, contamination, or safety hazards. Unsalted butter, unlike its salted counterpart, lacks the protective qualities of salt, making it susceptible to bacterial growth. While it may be convenient to keep butter at room temperature for spreadability, unsalted butter should ideally be refrigerated unless it will be consumed within a few hours. This ensures its quality and prevents it from going bad prematurely. Bananas are another item often incorrectly stored in cabinets. While protection from light is beneficial, bananas require a cool temperature, specifically between 56 and 58 degrees Fahrenheit, to slow down the ripening process. Storing them on a countertop, rather than in a cabinet, helps maintain this ideal temperature, preventing them from over-ripening too quickly. Cleaning supplies, even natural ones like vinegar and baking soda, should generally not be kept in kitchen cabinets, especially those within easy reach. Products containing chemical ingredients pose a significant risk, particularly if there are children or pets in the household. These items are best stored in an adjacent room or a secure, inaccessible location to prevent accidental ingestion or exposure. Scented products, such as scented trash bags and air fresheners, also fall into the category of items to avoid storing in kitchen cabinets. These products are typically not made from food-grade plastic, and their chemical scents can be absorbed by and contaminate edible items. The recommendation is to store them with other cleaning supplies, away from food products, to prevent any chemical transfer. Nuts, despite being commonly found in snack aisles and often stored in pantries, should be kept out of kitchen cabinets. They contain high levels of unsaturated fats, which are prone to turning rancid quickly. To preserve their freshness and prevent spoilage, nuts are best stored in airtight containers in the freezer. This method helps to protect them from moisture and extends their shelf life significantly. Pure maple syrup, unlike commercial pancake syrups that often contain preservatives, is a natural product and therefore requires refrigeration after opening. Without preservatives, pure maple syrup is more susceptible to mold growth and spoilage at room temperature. Refrigeration helps to maintain its quality and prevents it from fermenting. Finally, natural nut butters, which lack the preservatives found in many major brands, also should not be stored in kitchen cabinets. The natural oils in these products tend to separate and can go rancid if not refrigerated. Similar to whole nuts, storing natural nut butters in the refrigerator after opening helps to keep them fresh and prevents the oils from spoiling, preserving their flavor and quality. #KitchenStorage #FoodSafety #FoodPreservation #HouseholdItems #KitchenOrganization #CookingTips #PantryManagement

A cluttered bathroom can disrupt the efficiency of a morning routine. Maintaining an organized bathroom requires more than just tidying up; it begins with mindful selection of items stored in the space. Professional organizer D’Nai Walker highlights specific items that organized individuals typically avoid keeping in their bathrooms to maintain a clean and calm environment. Grooming tools, such as hair dryers, makeup brushes, and electric razors, often contribute to visual clutter on countertops due to their associated cords. To combat this, it is recommended to return these items to designated storage areas like drawers, bins, or under-sink organizers immediately after use. For those with limited space, a storage cart offers a flexible solution, allowing tools to be easily accessed and then tucked away when not in use. Daily essentials, including face cleansers, serums, and deodorants, can also accumulate and create visual noise. Although frequently used, these items should ideally be contained. Walker suggests placing them in a simple tray or caddy, which helps to maintain an organized appearance and prevents the bathroom from resembling an overstocked pharmacy. The key is to select a container that fits the products without overflowing and to consistently return items to their designated spot after each use. Jewelry is another item that should be kept out of the bathroom. The moisture and humidity present in bathrooms can damage jewelry, and there is a risk of losing small items down drains. A safer alternative is to establish a dedicated drop zone outside the bathroom, such as a jewelry drawer organizer in a closet or a decorative dish on a nightstand, to protect valuable pieces from potential harm. Expired toiletries pose both a clutter problem and a potential health risk. These items, including old sunscreens, creams, medications, and cosmetics, can lose their effectiveness and, in some cases, cause illness. Regular checks for expiration dates are crucial. If an expiration date is unclear, changes in the product's color, smell, or texture are indicators that it should be discarded. Finally, backstock toiletries, such as extra bottles of shampoo or multiple body washes, consume valuable space, particularly in smaller bathrooms. While keeping backups might seem convenient, they contribute significantly to clutter. It is more efficient to store these bulk products in a linen closet or another designated storage area outside the immediate bathroom space, only moving them to the bathroom when the current supply runs low. This approach ensures that only necessary items are readily accessible, preserving the aesthetic and functional order of the bathroom. #BathroomOrganization #DeclutteringTips #HomeStorage #Housekeeping #OrganizedHome #BathroomDecor #SpaceSavingSolutions #HomeImprovement

While kitchen cabinets are essential for organizing a variety of items, from blenders to serving pieces and bulk food supplies, certain items are often improperly stored within them, leading to potential damage or inefficiency. Expert Laurie Hise, founder of Passionate Penny Pincher, emphasizes that not everything belongs behind cabinet doors, as temperature fluctuations, moisture buildup, or simple navigational challenges can negatively impact stored goods. One common mistake is storing cookbooks in kitchen cabinets. Despite their utility in the kitchen, cooking and dishwashing generate humidity that can warp pages or cause moisture issues in cookbooks and handwritten recipes. Hise recommends relocating them to a dry, cool area, such as a bookshelf in a nearby dining room or a dedicated kitchen nook. Paper tableware, including napkins, plates, and cups, also requires careful storage. Humidity in cabinets can render paper products flimsy, damp, or susceptible to mold. Hise advises keeping these items in a dry location, like a pantry or a high shelf, to preserve their condition. Similarly, paper towels, often stored under sinks or in lower cabinets, are vulnerable to water damage from spills. Jessica Litman of The Organized Mama suggests moving paper towels to a pantry or a cabinet that is not exposed to water sources to prevent them from becoming unusable. Spices, while belonging in the kitchen, should not be kept in just any cabinet. Heat and steam, particularly from nearby stoves, can diminish their flavor and shorten their shelf life. Hise recommends storing spices in a cool, dry place, such as a drawer, a cabinet away from heat, or a countertop rack, to maintain their freshness and taste. Cleaning products and chemicals, although necessary for kitchen hygiene, pose safety and contamination risks when stored alongside food, cookware, or utensils. Katie Dills, president of The Cleaning Authority, highlights that such products contain harsh chemicals and their accessibility in kitchen cabinets can be dangerous for children and pets. These items should be stored securely and separately. Finally, bulk oils, like olive or avocado oil, can go rancid quickly if exposed to heat, such as from an oven or warm cabinet. Litman advises keeping only a small bottle of oil accessible and storing larger quantities in a cool pantry or basement to prolong their freshness. Adhering to these storage guidelines can contribute to a more organized, safer, and efficient kitchen environment. #KitchenOrganization #HomeStorage #CabinetStorage #FoodStorage #CleaningSupplies #KitchenTips #HomeImprovement #Decluttering