I’ve noticed that laundry rooms often become catch-all spaces for things that don’t really belong there. It’s tempting to stash all sorts of items in this convenient spot, but that can quickly lead to clutter and make it harder to get laundry done efficiently.
Knowing which items don’t belong in the laundry room can help you keep the space organized, safe, and functional. I’ve found that being mindful about what stays and what goes makes a big difference in keeping the room practical and easy to use.
Old magazines and newspapers
I used to keep piles of old magazines and newspapers in my laundry room. But I learned quickly that the humidity can cause the paper to warp or grow mold.
They also take up valuable space that’s better used for laundry supplies or cleaning products.
If you want to keep old reading material, it’s best to store them in a dry, well-ventilated area. That makes your laundry room less cluttered and protects your magazines from damage.
Board games and puzzles
I’ve found that board games and puzzles don’t really belong in the laundry room. The humidity and moisture from washing and drying can damage the pieces or the boxes over time.
It’s easy to forget about them in a busy laundry space, and they can quickly add to the clutter. Keeping them in a dry, dedicated area helps preserve them better and keeps my laundry room more organized.
Expired cleaning products
I always find it helpful to check the expiration dates on my cleaning supplies regularly. Expired detergents and stain removers don’t work as well and can even leave residue on clothes.
Sometimes I forget about old products hidden in the back of shelves. Getting rid of expired items not only frees up space but also improves my laundry results.
I’ve learned that keeping only fresh cleaning products avoids any unwanted chemical reactions or odors in the laundry room. It’s a small step that makes a noticeable difference.
Pet food and supplies
I’ve learned that keeping pet food in the laundry room isn’t the best idea. The moisture and chemicals around can affect the food’s quality and may even cause unpleasant smells.
Pet supplies, like wet food or treats, can also create stains or odors on clothes if they spill.
For me, it’s easier to store pet items in a dry, clean area away from laundry machines. It helps keep both my pets’ stuff and laundry space fresh and organized.
Important documents
I’ve learned that the laundry room is not a safe place for important documents. The humidity from washing machines and dryers can damage papers.
Leaks or spills can ruin documents, making them unreadable or moldy.
I keep my important papers in a dry, secure spot instead. It helps me avoid stress and potential loss. Storing documents elsewhere keeps them safe and easy to find when I need them.
Electronic devices and remotes
I never keep electronic devices or remotes in my laundry room. The humidity, spills, and lint can easily damage them. It’s not worth risking their function just because of convenience.
Having these items in the laundry room also makes them harder to find when I actually need them. Keeping them in a dry, dedicated space helps me avoid frustration.
Plus, electronics near washers and dryers could pose a small safety risk. I prefer to keep my laundry room simple and free of unnecessary gadgets.