Choosing the most practical storage is wise, but you may make one of 7 costly storage mistakes. Your perspective will change when you learn these errors can cause expensive consequences.
Convenient storage is practical and wise, but the conditions of the storage location are more important. Improper storage conditions are easy to miss. Take a second to learn the storage do’s and don’ts.
Keeping Towels in the Bathroom
The bathroom is usually hot and humid because of baths and showers, so it’s a poor storage spot for items requiring cool and dry conditions. Towels stored in your bathroom will eventually suffer mildew issues because of the humidity.
The humidity will keep the towels partially damp 24/7, so it’s only a matter of time before you encounter problems.
Store your towels outside the bathroom, perhaps in your linen or bedroom closet. Always hang your towel up after each use so it can dry.
Leaving Cosmetics on the Counter
Storing beauty products on a warm, brightly lit, humid bathroom counter can lead to problems. Most skincare products and cosmetics have a longer shelf life when kept in a cool, dark, and dry place.
Improper storage conditions can adversely affect your beauty products in various ways, as illustrated below:
• Sunscreens & Products With SPF: Heat may cause separation.
• Pigmented Powders (Eyeshadow, Blush, etc.): Heat may cause the pigments to fade.
• Liquid Foundation: Heat may shorten its shelf-life.
• Nail Polish: Heat may cause separation.
• Fragrances: Exposure to sunlight can alter delicate scents.
• Makeup Brushes: Storing them out in the open may expose them to moisture and bacteria.
It is recommended to store your beauty products in a drawer or cabinet when not in use to prevent these problems.
Storing Items in Their Packaging
Pantry items’ packaging provides inadequate protection against staleness and allows insects and pests to infiltrate and contaminate your food easily.
It is advisable to transfer your pantry items into airtight food storage containers as soon as you bring them home from the store. Airtight food storage will help maintain the food’s freshness and prevent pest infestation. Moreover, you can reuse these containers for several years.
Stacking Nonstick Pots & Pans
Stacking nonstick pans can easily scratch their delicate finish, causing damage to their surface. Fortunately, this problem can be resolved by placing a paper plate, paper towel, or tissue paper between each pan.
This thin barrier will act as a protective layer, shielding the finish from scratches and preventing damage.
Filing Cabinets
Important documents filed away in a corner may not be easily accessible during an emergency, and a filing cabinet may not offer adequate protection against disasters such as fires or floods.
It is recommended to store crucial documents (like birth certificates, passports, social security cards, and other essential information) in a fireproof storage bag. This bag should be kept in a place that can be easily accessed in an emergency.
Keeping Film Photos in a Shoebox
Many people struggle with deciding what to do with old photos and store them in an old shoebox. However, cardboard is not ideal for preserving photos and can cause fading and yellowing over time.
Medicine Cabinets
Although it may seem unusual, the medicine cabinet is not optimal for storing medications. As mentioned earlier, the bathroom’s humid atmosphere can accelerate drug deterioration.
Store medications in a cool, dry place to ensure longevity, efficacy, and prevent premature degradation.
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