Beware of storing these common things in the attic
The attic is the most typical location for homeowners to toss everything and everything. It’s a perfect spot to hide surplus junk, whether it’s Christmas decorations, old furniture, or technological gadgets, especially when living space is limited.
While it may be tempting to hide away random stuff (never to be seen again), there are some items that should never be stored in the attic. In fact, improper storage will most likely cause more harm than good to your valuable possessions.
This is due to the fact that attics are placed at the top of a home and are subject to shifting temperatures throughout the year. Extreme heat can generate dampness, which is common in older homes where attics are left unfinished or are not adequately insulated.
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So, before you gather even more stuff to store, here are some startling items that we should never keep in the attic.
1. Paint
The attic is a no-no if you’re decorating and need a place to keep your paints. Oil paints, in particular, are very flammable, while latex paints can degrade and become worthless in high temperatures. Paints should instead be stored in a temperature-controlled area, such as a spare cabinet.
2. Old photos, books and important documents
We frequently keep valuable picture albums or filed papers in the attic, but it’s actually the worst location to do so. Humidity and heat fluctuations can harm prints or cause them to clump together. Similarly, dampness may cause damage or discoloration to book pages. Vintage pictures and books should be placed on a protected box or shelf in a dry area if you wish to save them. Furthermore, no one wants to read a dog-eared book!
3. Electronics
Electronics, whether outdated TVs, laptops, or PCs, should never be placed in the attic. Again, high humidity may cause devices to overheat or even stop operating. Keep outdated electrical goods in a cool place, or better yet, discard, give, or sell them. At the very least, it’s a terrific way to generate some additional money!
4. Food and drink
While it’s normal to stock up on pantry staples, perishables can quickly degrade in hot summer temps. Furthermore, the heat will cook your canned goods before you get a chance to enjoy them! Food, drink, and other perishables should always be stored in sealed containers or crates in a cold, dry environment. Furthermore, you don’t want to create a haven for mice or other pests in your attic.
5. Christmas decorations
Most of us store holiday decorations in the attic, only to have them reappear 330 days later, but this is a no-no. Extreme humidity may quickly ruin delicate or handcrafted decorations made of wood or natural materials. Synthetic or plastic decorations, on the other hand, are more robust for attic storage.
6. Wood furniture or musical instruments
Avoid putting any type of wood furniture, instruments, or other items in the attic. Heat and humidity are quickly absorbed by wood, causing it to deform or ruin the finish. Furthermore, this does not bode well if you want to break out that old violin or guitar you haven’t played in years. Wooden goods should always be stored in a colder environment or within an appropriate cabinet/unit.
7. Highly flammable objects
Kerosene heaters, oil lamps, some cleaning chemicals, aerosol sprays, and batteries should never be stored. In the summer, high temperatures might cause them to burst and constitute a fire danger. Batteries and other flammables should always be stored in a well-ventilated place, such as a garage, basement, or outhouse. Also, keep kids away from stoves and fires.
Things you can store in the attic
Suitcases – Luggage and bags for travel can be kept in the attic. Make sure they’re in an easy-to-reach location.
Pots, pans, and other cookware are resistant to extreme temperature changes and are safe to store in the attic.
Camping and outdoor gear – Camping and outdoor gear is often comprised of weather-resistant materials. These can resist significant temperature swings.
Metal bedframes, chairs, play tables, and cages are more suitable for attic storage than plastic objects. Plastic toys and other objects should also be resilient in an attic climate.