Last updated on March 22nd, 2024
We are space-starved, no matter the size of our home. It’s as if our heart yearns to fill empty spaces with “stuff,” the minute we see it. The result is predictable. “Stuff” finds its way into every nook and corner of our home, hidden from sight so that we can ignore it and live blissful lives.
However, storing stuff in some places isn’t the wisest move, if experts are to be believed. If this has piqued your interest, join us as we find out what shouldn’t go where and why. Let’s take a deep dive into the world of storage.
1. Lofts In Your Home
Lofts are massive “caves” where anything can be stored. The same goes for attics if you are lucky to have one. However, ventilation in these closed spaces is challenging. The situation gets worse in the monsoon when there is a lot of dampness.
Expert speak
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Avoid storing garments, woolens, and quilts in the loft.
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Old photographs and electronics are best stored in overhead cupboards in your room.
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You can safely store artifacts, utensils, and festive decorations in the loft.
2. Under Your Bed Storage
Clutter encourages mold and dust. And sleeping on a bed of allergens isn’t the ideal scenario, whether you are prone to allergies or not.
Expert speak
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Opt for drawers or under-the-mattress sections for ease of storage and a dust-free environment.
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Take this a step further with vacuum-sealed packaging or zipped storage boxes to contain dust accumulation.
3. Space Under Your Sink
Think about it. Sink means water and pipes. When there is a leakage or the drain gets clogged, it’s a disaster waiting to happen.
Expert speak
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Dampness, dripping water, or clogged drain scenarios are disastrous for delicate items.
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Use this space for cleaning caddies, and detergent storage stashed neatly on the side, so that you can access the water pipe or drain when needed.
4. Top-of-the-Fridge Storage
With all the space, it’s tempting to store your foodstuff, groceries, or appliances on the top. However, refrigerators exude heat. Moreover, to function well, the appliance needs air circulation.
Expert speak
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Avoid storing stuff on top of the refrigerator.
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Make sure there is enough room between the appliance and the wall for optimal air circulation.
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Spoilage is inevitable when you place food items or wine on top of the fridge.
5. The Floor of Your Walk-in Closet
The best part about walk-in closets is that you can toss used garments, shoes, or shopping bags in the corner and shut the door. You can turn a blind eye and pretend all you want, but the junk isn’t going anywhere.
Expert speak
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Your clothes will lose their charm when they are not hung up. Apart from collecting dust from the floor, you may encourage cockroach infestation, as bugs love dark places.
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Install hooks in your closet, so if you are in a hurry, you can hang the clothes to deal with later.
6. Your Garage
From old clothes, and sports equipment to old furniture, the garage bears the brunt of all the undesirables. The moisture in the garage will tarnish perfectly good furniture, and your clothes will probably rot.
Expert speak
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There may still be life in your furniture. Use renovating tips for a state-of-the-art furniture piece.
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Old clothes may develop mold and bad odor. If you are not going to use them, it’s best to give them to someone who can, thereby, saving you the trouble of storing and bringing joy into someone’s life.
7. The Kitchen Countertop
The empty counter space looks inviting when you want to dump stuff on it. However, this makes cooking difficult as the space is reduced.
Expert speak
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Use storage tips for appliances and spices on this link for a pristine countertop.
Summing Up
De-cluttering your home can solve most of these problems. If you are not sure about some old items lying in your house, don’t sit on the fence with your “maybes.” It is better to give those to people who can enjoy them more than you. For tips on de-cluttering and organizing, check out our blogs on homebliss.in. The festive season is approaching. It’s the least you can do for your home!
