Your garage might seem like a convenient place to store almost anything, but not every item belongs there. Temperature changes, humidity, and pests can cause damage to certain belongings, leading to frustration and extra costs.
Knowing what not to store in your garage can help protect your items and keep your space safer. By being selective about what goes in your garage, you can avoid common problems and maintain a more organized and efficient area.
Clothing and sneakers
You might think your garage is a fine place to store clothes and sneakers, but it can actually cause problems. Garages often have high humidity and temperature swings, which can damage fabrics and cause odors.
Clothing and shoes can also attract pests like rodents and insects. Bugs are drawn to natural fibers, and dampness can lead to mold or mildew growth.
To keep your clothes and sneakers in good shape, it’s better to store them inside your home in a climate-controlled space. Using vacuum-sealed bags or breathable containers can help protect your items from dust and pests.
Propane tanks
You should never store propane tanks in your garage. Even a small leak can build up gas in the enclosed space, creating a fire hazard.
If a spark from your car or any appliance ignites that gas, it could cause a serious fire or explosion.
It’s best to keep propane tanks outside, in a well-ventilated area. Store them upright and away from heat or direct sunlight to stay safe.
Electronics like laptops and TVs
You should avoid storing laptops, TVs, and other electronics in your garage. The temperature swings can be extreme, going from hot in the summer to freezing in the winter. These changes can damage the delicate parts inside your devices.
Humidity is another problem. Moisture in the garage can cause corrosion or mildew, which can ruin your electronics over time. Instead, keep them in a dry, stable environment indoors where the temperature and humidity stay consistent. This helps protect your gadgets and keeps them working longer.
Pet food
You should avoid storing pet food in your garage. The changing temperatures can cause it to spoil or lose its nutritional value faster than you expect.
Leaving pet food in bags invites pests like mice and insects inside your home. These critters can chew through packaging and contaminate the food.
If you must store pet food in the garage, use a sealed, rigid container. This helps keep pests out and protects the food from moisture and temperature changes.