From applying makeup to styling hair, the bathroom is one of the most-used spaces in the home. While storing daily essentials there may seem convenient, experts warn that high humidity and temperature fluctuations can damage many items. Steam from hot showers condenses on cold surfaces like mirrors and tiles, and sudden temperature changes stress stored materials, shortening their lifespan.
Here’s a list of items you should never store in the bathroom:
1. Cosmetics
Makeup products such as powders, creams, and mascaras can spoil quickly in humid conditions. Bacteria thrive in moist environments, increasing the risk of skin irritation. Tip: Store cosmetics in a cool, dry place.
2. Books and Magazines
Paper absorbs moisture and odors from cleaning products or perfumes, causing pages to wrinkle or warp over time.
3. Electronic Devices
Even brief exposure to humidity can damage non-waterproof electronics. Moisture can cause short circuits or permanent malfunctions, and using electronics near water poses serious safety risks.
4. Extra Razor Blades
Humidity causes metal to rust, dulling the blade and increasing the risk of cuts or irritation. Keep spare blades in their original packaging outside the bathroom.
5. Jewelry
Heat and moisture can tarnish metals and damage gemstones. Chemical reactions with beauty products like perfumes or hair sprays may also affect their shine or color.
6. Towels and Spare Linens
Leaving towels in a damp bathroom promotes mold and mildew growth. Store extra linens and guest towels in a well-ventilated closet, not the bathroom.
7. Extra Paper Products
Spare toilet paper or tissues can absorb moisture, dust, and bacteria if left in the bathroom, reducing hygiene and usability.
8. Photographs
Humidity can make photos stick to glass frames, potentially ruining your memories permanently.
9. Nail Polish
Temperature fluctuations thicken polish, causing clumps and uneven application.
10. Medicines and Vitamins
Perhaps the most critical: heat and humidity reduce the effectiveness of medications and supplements. Store them in a cool, dry cabinet in the kitchen or bedroom.
11. Art and Collectibles
Humidity damages wood, yellows paintings, and can irreversibly ruin valuable collectibles. Proper storage with air conditioning or dehumidifiers preserves them for generations.
12. Cleaning Products
While often stored under the sink, cleaning products need cool, dry, and ventilated storage to maintain their chemical stability and safety. Keep them out of children’s reach.
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