7 Surprising Things You Shouldn't Store in Your Bathroom
January 31, 2024
6 min read
When it comes to home organization, the bathroom often serves as a catch-all for various items. From medications and towels to electronics and jewelry, we tend to store a lot of things in this small space for convenience.
However, not everything is meant to withstand the humidity and temperature fluctuations a bathroom typically experiences. Here are seven surprising things you should never store in your bathroom.
1. Medications
Imagine this scenario: You open your bathroom cabinet, grab a bottle of your prescription medication, and pop a pill to relieve your symptoms. You might think you're on the path to recovery, but there's a hidden danger lurking in your bathroom—humidity.
The bathroom's constant changes in temperature and humidity levels make it an inhospitable environment for medications. The fluctuating moisture levels can wreak havoc on the stability and effectiveness of your drugs. Over time, exposure to moisture can cause pills to break down and lose their potency, rendering them ineffective in treating your ailments.
So, where should you store your medications to keep them potent and safe? The answer is simple: find a cool, dry place like a kitchen cabinet or a dedicated medicine cabinet outside the bathroom. This ensures that your medications maintain their therapeutic properties and remain safe for consumption.
Moreover, it's crucial to keep medications out of reach of children and pets. Store them in a secure, childproof container or cabinet to prevent accidental ingestion, which can lead to serious health risks.
2. Makeup
Makeup and perfume suffer in a bathroom environment. The heat and humidity can cause makeup products to clump together, change consistency, or even grow mold. Perfumes can undergo changes in their scent profiles due to temperature fluctuations. The heat can cause the alcohol in perfumes to evaporate faster, altering the fragrance.
Storing these items in a cool, dry area like a vanity or a bedroom drawer can help enhance their durability and functionality, letting you make the most of your cosmetics. It's also essential to periodically review the expiry dates of your makeup and fragrance items and responsibly dispose of any that are past their use-by date to ensure their safe and effective use.
3. Razor Blades
Shaving is a part of many people's daily grooming routines, and the bathroom seems the most logical place to store your razor blades. However, this common practice can lead to unexpected consequences.
Razor blades kept in the shower are continuously exposed to water, which can negatively impact their durability and functionality. The persistent moisture hastens the dulling of the blades, diminishing their efficiency and raising the likelihood of getting scrapes or cuts during shaving. This can result in an unpleasant shaving experience and heighten the potential for skin irritation and infections.
If you want your razor blades to last longer and offer a smooth, risk-free shave, it's advisable to store them in a dry location other than the bathroom. An easy adjustment in storage space can reduce the need for frequent blade changes, saving you money and facilitating a tighter, more pleasant shave.
4. Towels and Linens
While keeping towels and linens in the bathroom might seem like a practical choice, it's not advisable due to the prolonged dampness post-shower or bath. This moisture can infiltrate the fabrics, creating an optimal setting for the development of mold and mildew. These fungi can result in unpleasant odors, staining, and potential health issues, particularly for individuals with respiratory sensitivities or allergies.
You might want to store your extra towels and bedding in a separate, dry place instead of the bathroom. Your bedroom's dresser drawer or linen closet can be ideal substitutes. These spots usually offer less moisture-filled environments, making them better for fabric preservation. Regular washing and drying of your towels and bed linens will ensure they remain clean and smell fresh.
5. Electronics
In today's digital age, it's common to see people using their smartphones, tablets, and e-readers everywhere, including the bathroom. But before you bring your electronics into the steamy sanctuary of the bathroom, there are some risks you should consider.
Exposing electronic devices to moisture and steam can lead to costly water damage and malfunction. The sensitive internal components of these devices are not designed to withstand such conditions. Even a tiny amount of moisture can seep into your device and cause irreversible damage, rendering it useless.
The best practice is to leave your electronics outside the bathroom when not in use. If you must use them while bathing, consider investing in waterproof cases designed to shield your devices from moisture and potential accidents. These cases offer protection without compromising your digital experience.
6. Jewelry
While it may seem like a convenient place to store your jewelry while you shower or get ready, your bathroom is not the right environment for precious metals and gemstones. Jewelry, especially fine pieces, requires proper care and storage to maintain their beauty and value.
The humidity in the bathroom can cause tarnishing and damage to jewelry, particularly pieces made of silver, gold, or platinum. Over time, prolonged exposure to moisture can prompt undesired tarnishing and potentially lead to erosion. Additionally, gemstones are not exempt from this risk, as moisture can weaken their settings, making them more susceptible to damage or loss.
To avoid these issues, consider storing your jewelry in a dedicated jewelry box or organizer in your bedroom or walk-in closet. These locations are typically cooler and less humid, making them better suited for preserving the quality of your jewelry. Regularly polish your jewelry to retain its luster and avoid accumulation of residue.
7. Candles
Candles are a popular addition to many bathrooms, creating a relaxing atmosphere during baths. However, there's a hidden danger associated with storing candles in this space. The very element that makes candles so appealing in the bathroom—moisture—can also be their downfall.
The bathroom's humidity and temperature changes can lead to candles warping, melting, or losing their delightful aroma. When candles warp, they tend to burn unevenly, wasting wax and shortening their lifespan. If they melt, it can result in a messy situation, and losing their fragrance can detract from the soothing atmosphere you desire during your bath.
If keeping candles in your bathroom is your preference, it's vital to house them in a cool, dry spot, away from moisture and shifting temperatures. A linen closet or a decorative bedroom container could be the perfect storage solution. Following these easy steps will help maintain your candles' soothing and delightful qualities.
Don't Let Your Bathroom Ruin Your Belongings
Your bathroom may seem like a convenient catch-all for various items, but it's essential to be mindful of the environment and its impact on your belongings. Avoid storing medications, makeup, perfumes, razor blades, towels, electronics, jewelry, and candles in your bathroom to ensure their longevity and maintain their quality.
Following these simple guidelines can create a more organized and efficient bathroom space while preserving your cherished possessions and promoting a safer, healthier environment for yourself and your family.
