If you’re like most people, your bathroom is probably packed with everything from beauty products to cleaning supplies. But did you know that the humidity and temperature changes in this room can damage certain items? Some of the things we often store in our bathroom can even pose health risks if not stored properly. Thus, it’s crucial to know what to keep out of your bathroom. In this blog post, we’ll explore the 15 things you should never store in your bathroom, complete with explanations and alternatives.
1. Medications
Most of us store our medications in the bathroom cabinet, but the high humidity can degrade the active ingredients, making them less effective. Even over-the-counter drugs can lose their potency under these conditions.
Make a habit of storing your medicines in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Your bedroom or kitchen (away from the stove) can be great alternatives. And remember to always keep them out of reach of children.
2. Makeup
The bathroom may seem like the ideal place to store your makeup, but the heat and humidity can break down the preservatives that keep your products fresh. This can lead to bacterial contamination, which can cause skin irritation or infection.
Instead, store your makeup in a cool, dry place. You can use a makeup bag or a drawer in your bedroom. And always close the lids tightly to prevent exposure to air.
3. Perfumes
Perfumes are sensitive to temperature changes and can degrade when exposed to heat and humidity. The bathroom environment can alter the scent and reduce the lifespan of your favorite fragrances.
Store your perfumes in a cool, dark place to preserve their quality. Your bedroom closet can be a perfect spot. Just make sure to keep them upright to prevent leakage.
4. Jewelry
Humidity can cause your precious jewelry to tarnish quickly. Plus, keeping them in the bathroom increases the risk of losing them down the drain or forgetting them after a shower.
Designate a special place for your jewelry in your bedroom. Consider investing in a jewelry box or organizer to keep your pieces safe and in good condition.
5. Books
Books and humidity don’t mix well. The moisture can warp the pages and damage the binding. Besides, the damp environment can encourage mold growth on your books.
Keep your books in a dry, well-ventilated room. And if you love reading in the tub, consider getting a waterproof e-reader.
6. Electronics
Electronics are a big no-no for the bathroom. The moisture can damage the internal parts and lead to electrical failures.
Always keep your electronics in a dry place. And be careful not to bring your phone or tablet into the bathroom to avoid accidental water damage.
7. Towels
Storing extra towels in the bathroom might seem practical, but it can lead to mildew. The damp environment is the perfect breeding ground for these harmful fungi.
Store your extra towels in a linen closet or another dry place. And always let your used towels dry completely before stashing them away.
8. Non-waterproof Art
The high humidity can damage artwork, causing colors to fade and materials to warp. Besides, the constant temperature changes can lead to condensation, which can ruin your beautiful pieces.
Keep your art pieces in a dry, well-ventilated room. And if you want to decorate your bathroom, opt for waterproof or humidity-resistant artwork.
9. Wooden Items
Wood absorbs moisture, which can cause it to warp and crack. Plus, the damp environment can encourage mold and mildew growth, damaging your wooden items.
Store your wooden items in a dry room. And if you need to keep them in the bathroom, make sure to seal them properly to protect against moisture.
10. Extra Toilet Paper
While it might be convenient, storing extra toilet paper in the bathroom can expose it to moisture, making it less effective and pleasant to use.
Keep your extra rolls in a dry place and only bring them into the bathroom when you need them. You can use a storage basket or a cabinet in a dry room.
11. Cleaning Supplies
The bathroom might seem like a practical place for your cleaning supplies, but the humidity can affect their efficacy. Plus, storing them in a high-traffic area increases the risk of accidental exposure or ingestion.
Store your cleaning supplies in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets. A utility closet or a high shelf in the kitchen can be ideal.
12. Vitamins and Supplements
Just like medications, vitamins and supplements can degrade in a humid environment, making them less effective. Plus, moisture can cause them to clump together, making them hard to consume.
Store your vitamins and supplements in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. A kitchen cabinet or a drawer in your bedroom can be perfect.
13. Nail Polish
Heat and humidity can change the consistency of your nail polish, making it thick and hard to apply. Plus, temperature fluctuations can cause separation of the ingredients.
Store your nail polish in a cool, dry place, away from light. A drawer in your bedroom can be a good choice. And remember to shake it well before use to mix the ingredients.
14. Razors
The bathroom humidity can cause your razors to rust, making them dull and potentially harmful to your skin.
Store your razors in a dry place after use. And consider using a blade protector to keep them sharp and safe.
15. Photos
The humidity in the bathroom can cause your photos to stick together, damage the ink, and encourage mold growth.
Store your photos in a dry, cool place, away from light. Consider digitizing them to preserve them for generations to come.