What shouldn’t be Stored in Basements and Attics

Good housekeeping is a combination of common sense, practicality and wisdom (most likely) acquired through those trial and error situations all people go through. On many occasions tough people do get caught out by circumstances, wishing they did or didn’t do certain things. Proper housekeeping is a learning curve, hurdles will be faced along the way but eventually housekeeping becomes second nature for most people.

Storing items and belongings properly is one of the essential aspects of effective housekeeping. Storage of things at home doesn’t seem like a problem to most people, but there are many specifics that should be considered. Imagine a situation where you are planning a house removal for instance, you begin to round up stuff for packing and wrapping. You work your way to the closet or attic, and oh no – half your stuff is ruined from heat, moisture or household pests. Can’t pin this one on the movers.

This is of course just one of many hypothetical scenarios, in reality you don’t have to be moving house to keep your items safe from damage at home. Here are some examples of what should and should not be kept in attics and basements. These are of course just general guidelines, but they make good sense so keep them in mind for next time.

Delicate fabrics and expensive clothing – these are highly susceptible to damage so don’t put a damper on your day and keep such items in closets instead. Things like moisture, mould, mice, insects, condensation, heat etc. are all an issue when it comes to storing fine garments, so don’t opt for the basement or attic.

Furniture and décor made of natural materials – storage of such objects in damp and stuffy places like attics and basements is definitely not a good idea. Natural materials although treated will be affected by heat, cold, moisture, insect infestations etc. Don’t risk your fine interior features and keep them elsewhere if possible. If not, then pack and wrap such items really well in order to protect them from the surrounding environment. The same applies to rugs, mattresses etc.

Important paperwork – although living in a digital age, people still keep hard copies of many vital documents like birth and citizenship certificates, title deeds and what not. By no means keep such things in attics and basements as they will be destroyed in matter of weeks by moisture, heat, condensation, pests etc. Important paperwork needs to be kept sealed in water and air tight folders and stored in areas where there is less chance of damage or perishing.

Electronics – delicate electronic equipment doesn’t like moisture. Temperature fluctuations in basements and attics usually create condensation which means moisture inside the device – bad news. If some of your electronics have been exposed to condensation, don’t try and turn them on, but let them air dry for as long as necessary before flipping the switch.

Food – food stuffs are an obvious ‘no’ unless of course you store canned food or specially packed long term food supplies. The pantry is your best bet, if that’s an option.