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A shed can offer convenient storage space for gardening tools and outdoor gear, but not everything is safe to keep inside. The temperature and humidity levels in most sheds can vary greatly, making them unsuitable for certain items, especially if they aren’t insulated.
Just like garages, sheds can expose stored items to damage from moisture, heat, and even pests. To avoid unnecessary damage and protect your belongings, it’s important to know what to keep out of your shed. Here are 16 items you should avoid storing in your shed.
Food
You should never store food of any kind in your shed. Food can attract pests like rats and other unwanted critters. Canned goods are also at risk; temperature swings can promote bacterial growth inside the cans, while humidity can lead to rust on the metal and lids of jars. Rust can trigger chemical reactions that spoil the food, rendering it unsafe to eat.
Paint
Paint has specific storage guidelines to ensure it remains effective and safe. Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can break down its composition and pose safety risks. Store leftover paint in a cool, dry spot indoors where it’s shielded from harsh conditions.
Cleaning Supplies
Like paint, cleaning products require careful storage to prevent deterioration and potential chemical reactions. Heat and cold can diminish their effectiveness or create safety hazards. To protect your cleaning supplies from temperature extremes, keep them in a dry, cool area inside your home.
Important Documents
When it comes to important papers—like legal documents, medical records, and family photos—don’t risk losing them to moisture or pests in a shed. These sensitive items should be kept in a secure, dry location indoors.
Valuable Electronics
Expensive electronics don’t belong in the shed. Rapid temperature changes and high humidity levels can cause serious damage to gadgets, potentially ruining them for good. Keep items like computers, televisions, and audio equipment in a climate-controlled space to extend their lifespan and maintain their performance.
Prescription Medications
Medications are sensitive to fluctuating temperatures, and storing them in a shed can lead to decreased potency or spoilage. Always store your prescription drugs in a cool, dry area inside your home where you can easily monitor them to ensure they remain safe and effective.
Artwork
Your art collection should never be stored in a shed. Art is highly susceptible to damage from heat and moisture, which can cause warping, expansion, and even mold growth. To keep your artwork in top condition, wrap it in protective material like bubble wrap, place it in a waterproof bag, and store it in a box or container in a climate-controlled environment.
Books
If your personal library is overflowing, resist the temptation to store excess books in your shed. Like artwork, books have a tough time surviving the humidity and moisture of a shed. Their pages curl over time, and their spines warp. It’s best to store these items inside your home.
Alcohol
Beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages shouldn’t be stored in the shed. Light and heat can alter their taste, turning your favorite wine into vinegar. Instead, make room for them in a dark, cool place inside your home.
Propane Tanks
Keeping propane tanks in your shed might seem convenient, but doing so can be very dangerous. Propane is highly flammable; even a small leak could lead to serious safety hazards. Always store propane tanks outside in a well-ventilated space, far from any heat sources or potential sparks.
Insecticides and Pesticides
Storing insecticides and pesticides in a shed can be risky, especially if temperatures fluctuate. Extreme heat can cause these chemicals to degrade, making them less effective or even dangerous. Keep them in a cool, dry place inside your home, away from your children and pets.
Firewood
Pests like spiders and termites love to make their home in piles of stacked wood. Those pests can easily infiltrate your living space if that wood is stored in your shed. Avoid an infestation by storing unused firewood at least 20 feet from your home.
Unused Furniture
Home furniture is another household item easily damaged by moisture and pests when stored in a shed. Wood can warp, and upholstery can develop mold. If you need to store your furniture, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit to keep it in prime condition.
Rugs and Carpets
If you have spare rugs, avoid storing them in the shed. Moisture can lead to mold and mildew growth, and unpleasant odors can become trapped in the fibers. Additionally, rolled-up carpets can attract pests looking for shelter. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can also cause the colors to fade over time.
Clothing
Avoid storing clothes in the shed. Clothes can develop mold and pick up musty odors – or worse, become a prime target for moths. This goes for all fabric-based items. It’s best to store clothing indoors where conditions are more stable.
Fertilizers
Storing fertilizers in the shed can be risky due to temperature changes and moisture exposure, leading to clumping or chemical reactions. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe storage.
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Deborah Agor
Deborah Agor is a seasoned freelance writer known for her captivating storytelling and informative articles. With a diverse background in journalism, Deborah's writing covers a wide range of topics, from technology to health and wellness. Her dedication to delivering engaging content has seen her work with numerous top brands. When she's not writing, Deborah enjoys exploring nature and discovering hidden gems in her community.
