Your basement can be a valuable storage space, providing extra room to stow away belongings and keep your living areas clutter-free. However, not everything is suitable for basement storage. Before you start moving items downstairs, it’s crucial to consider the environment and potential risks associated with storing certain things in basements. In this blog post, we’ll explore the things to never store in the basement to ensure the safety and longevity of your belongings.
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You can find my Free Printable Home Maintenance Record here. Also, you can read my Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklists here. Now, let’s look at a list of 7 things to never store in the basement.
7 Things to Never Store in the Basement
- Electronics and Appliances:
Basements are prone to moisture, which can be detrimental to electronic devices and appliances. The damp conditions can lead to corrosion, mold growth, and electrical malfunctions. Keep valuable electronics and appliances away from the basement to prevent unnecessary damage.
- Important Documents:
Important documents, such as passports, birth certificates, and legal papers, should never find their way into the basement. Moisture, pests, and potential flooding can jeopardize the integrity of these crucial documents. Instead, opt for a secure and dry location within the main living area or invest in a fireproof and waterproof safe.
- Wooden Furniture:
Wooden furniture is highly susceptible to moisture and changes in humidity. Prolonged exposure to damp conditions can lead to warping, rotting, and the growth of mold and mildew. If you must store wooden furniture in the basement, use a dehumidifier to control moisture levels and consider elevating the furniture to prevent direct contact with the floor.
- Clothing and Fabrics:
Basements are notorious for dampness, making them less than ideal for storing clothing and fabrics. Moist conditions can lead to musty odors, mold growth, and even damage delicate fabrics (such as an old wedding dress) over time. Opt for dry, climate-controlled spaces for your clothing storage to keep your wardrobe in optimal condition.
- Photographs and Artwork:
Irreplaceable items like photographs and artwork should never be relegated to the basement. Humidity and temperature fluctuations can cause irreparable damage to these cherished possessions. Store photographs and artwork in a cool, dry environment, and consider framing them to provide an additional layer of protection.
- Food and Perishables:
While it may seem convenient to use the basement as an extension of your pantry, it’s not the best place to store food items. Basements are more prone to pests, and the fluctuating temperatures can compromise the quality and safety of stored food. Stick to storing non-perishable items in the basement, and keep perishables in designated kitchen storage areas.
- Instruments, Valuables and Irreplaceable Items:
Basements are vulnerable to flooding, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall or near bodies of water. Instruments can be damaged beyond repair by the moisture. Never store valuable or irreplaceable items in the basement if there’s a risk of flooding. Consider alternative storage solutions, such as a secure upper-level space or a rented storage unit with climate control.
Maximizing your basement’s storage potential is a great way to declutter your living spaces, but it’s essential to be selective about what you store there. By avoiding the storage of sensitive items like electronics, important documents, wooden furniture, clothing, photographs, food, and valuables in the basement, you can protect your belongings and ensure they stand the test of time. Prioritize smart storage choices to make the most of your basement while safeguarding your possessions from potential risks.
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