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Our garages become a dumping ground for various belongings, but it's crucial to be mindful of what we leave there. From safety hazards to potential damage, let's explore the top 10 things you should never leave in your garage. 1. Perishable Food Items: Your garage is not an appropriate place to store perishable food items like fruits, vegetables, or dairy products. The fluctuating temperatures, humidity, and potential exposure to pests can spoil your food quickly. It's best to store them in a cool and controlled environment like your kitchen. Also, don’t store pet food unless in a sealed container. Rodents can chew through bags. 2. Important Documents: Important documents such as passports, birth certificates, or property deeds should be kept in a secure location inside your home. The garage is susceptible to moisture, pests, and possible theft, making it an unsuitable place for storing such sensitive items. 3. Paint and Flammable Liquids: Storing paint cans, gasoline, or other flammable liquids in the garage can pose a serious safety risk. Extreme temperatures can cause these substances to ignite or explode. It's better to store them in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources.
4. Oily rags
Never store oil-soaked rags in your garage. Spontaneous combustion (and a devastating fire) can occur when oily rags are stored where the internal heat that is generated isn’t allowed to escape. Buy a proper waste can for oily rags if you do have them. This is one thing that, unfortunately, I have experience when they are not properly stored.
5. Electronics and Appliances: While it might seem convenient to keep your old electronics or appliances in the garage, extreme temperatures and humidity can damage their delicate components. Moisture can cause rust and corrosion, rendering them useless. Choose to store electronics indoors where the environment is more controlled. 6. Propane Tanks: Never store propane tanks, whether empty or full, inside your garage. Propane is highly flammable and can lead to dangerous explosions if mishandled. Store propane tanks in a well-ventilated area outside, specifically designated for them.
7. Clothing and Bedding: Garages are not suitable for storing clothing or bedding due to the risk of moisture, mold, and pest infestation. These items are best kept in a clean and dry closet or storage area inside your home. 8. Precious Collectibles or Artwork: Extreme temperatures, humidity, and potential accidents in the garage can damage or devalue your precious collectibles or artwork. It's advisable to display or store them in a controlled environment that maintains stable conditions. 9. Musical Instruments: Wooden musical instruments, such as guitars or violins, are sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. Storing them in the garage can cause warping, cracking, or other irreversible damage. Keep your instruments in a temperature-controlled room inside your home. 10. Wine or Champagne: If you're a wine enthusiast, avoid storing your precious bottles in the garage. Fluctuating temperatures can spoil the taste and quality of wine. Create a designated wine storage area inside your home, ensuring the bottles are kept at a consistent temperature. 11. Living Creatures: Lastly, it goes without saying that living creatures, including pets or plants, should never be left alone in the garage. The lack of proper ventilation, temperature control, and potential exposure to harmful substances can endanger their well-being. Make sure they have a safe and suitable environment within your home. Always consider the potential risks and hazards, it's crucial to be mindful of what you store in your garage. By avoiding storing perishable food, valuable documents, flammable substances, delicate electronics, and other sensitive items, you can ensure their preservation and safety. Prioritize appropriate storage conditions to protect your belongings and maintain their longevity. Stay organized and make your garage a safe and clutter-free space!
Thinking about selling your home? Before you make up your mind, give Jeff a call. I want to make your experience one that preserves the excitement but sheds the anxiety. I provide clear guidance and advice to help you make the right decisions. Request your Free Download here FREE Sellers Guide and connect with us today! Let’s get ready to sell your home. Text/Call Jeff at 614.721.0450 or email Jeff@JSRealtorTeam.com. Offices in Columbus & Mansfield to serve Mid-Ohio.