STORAGE... because there is always something we will need later, next season or the next holiday. While some of us have more to store than others, we all want to make sure we are storing it properly and in the right location.
There are countless resources online about this topic but after doing some research, I thought it would be helpful to have an abbreviated version all in one place.
-the storage in our house is limited to the basement (pictured above, middle), garage (not pictured) and our bonus room which has four small storage spaces (pictured above, left)and a small closet (pictured above, right).-
Things to Consider When Choosing a Storage Space
Basement: Moisture/possible flooding
Garage: Exposed to the elements
Attic: Varying temperatures from extreme heat to extreme cold
Consider the items you are looking to store before deciding on the location that you are going to store them in. Will the location you choose help preserve those items or cause damage while in that location.
Items You are Storing & the Safest Storage Space
Delicate Fabrics: best kept in a closet as attics and basements present varying temperatures, insects, rodents and moisture which can ruin these items.
Fur/Leather/Other items such as Wedding Dress, Sentimental Baby Items, Fine Linens: best kept in the main space of your home (in a closet or other storage space) after the items have been professionally cleaned.
Natural Furniture/Décor: best in dry, moderate temperatures. The basement, attic and garage generally not a good storage space for these items.
Important Paperwork/Photos: (such as birth certificates, social security cards, passports, etc) should be stored in a fireproof safe or closet. These items can also be stored in the basement when using plastic storage containers and placing the containers on shelves.
Books: are best in the attic, as long as it is well ventilated. Never keep books in a humid/moist location.
Electronics: heat and moisture are not good for electronics, such items should be stored in the main space of your home (in a closet or other storage space).
Paint/Cleaning Products/Other Flammable Products: can be stored in the basement or garage. However, these items should NEVER be stored near any gas related items (such as a furnace, water heater, dryer, etc.) as it is a possible fire hazard.
The following list of items can be stored in either the basement or attic (and it is best to use air tight containers when possible):
Holiday Decorations
Kitchen Supplies (extra pots/pans, appliances, serving dishes, etc. when space is limited in the kitchen)
Suitcases
Patio Furniture
How is the storage in your house working for you? {because the Smiths are failing... the paint is currently being stored on a shelf in our basement very close to the furnace and hot water heater. No worries - we are on it & relocating the shelf/paint to a more appropriate location in the basement. There's zero judgment... we are all doing the best we can. How often are we thinking through every last detail when storing our things? Although we may start now. Happy Storing!}