7 Things You Should Never Store In Your Garage, According To Experts

The garage is a powerhouse room in any home. There’s a ton of empty space perfect for storage, but that doesn’t mean that all items belong in this room because of the lack of space you might have inside.

“Storage is often at a premium in our homes, so we are tempted to take advantage of every bit of space we have, including the garage. Unfortunately, the garage isn’t the safest place to store many of our household items, and who wants to come home at the end of a busy day to a cluttered garage anyway?” says professional organizer, Lauren Saltman.

While there are plenty of garage storage options available to keep this space free of clutter, it’s vital to ensure you’re storing the right items on your chosen system. We spoke to three organizational experts who shared with us the top seven items they say you should never store in the garage.

Important Documents

“The intense heat and high humidity in hotter climates can cause significant damage to paper-based items,” informs Staub. “Books and important paperwork stored in a garage can become brittle, develop mold, and attract pests like silverfish, leading to irreversible damage. It’s important to keep these items in a climate-controlled environment if you really care about them.”

For you birth certificates, tax documents, and other vital paperwork, consider storing them in a fireproof safe and sound that you can keep somewhere inside.

Electronics

All three of our experts say that electronics should never be kept in the garage. “Garages can be like saunas in the summer and freezers in the winter, which is a nightmare for your gadgets. To avoid turning your prized electronics into expensive paperweights, store them somewhere with consistent temperature and humidity,” says Summers. The solution? Find somewhere in the cold indoors to keep the wiring and performance of the electronics in check.

Clothing & Fabrics

Running out of closet space? Sadly, the garage shouldn’t be the next place you look. According to Saltman, storing fabrics such as silk, wool, and linen in the garage make them susceptible to moth infestations. All of our experts say that since garage temperatures go back and forth, the high heat and moisture can lead to mold and mildew on any clothing item or upholstery fabric. Because of such, it’s best to keep these items in a temperature-controlled room indoors.

Paintings & Wall Art

“A good rule of thumb to follow is that if it’s sentimental, can’t be replaced, and very valuable, then don’t store it in your garage where it can be ruined by moisture, temperature fluctuations and pests,” says Saltman. Paintings and wall art pieces you’re not hanging up shouldn’t be stored in the garage so you preserve the appearance and materials. If the pieces are ones you don’t think you’ll ever hang up again, consider donating it or getting rid of it.

Food & Wine

Regardless of droughty goods that you’re saving to snack on later (when there’s more pantry space available), our experts say the garage is not the best place for the interim. “Storing food in the garage is like sending out an open invitation to every rodent and bug in the neighborhood. Plus, fluctuating temperatures can make food spoil faster,” says Summers.

Additionally, Saltman says that the garage shouldn’t be treated as your wine cellar. “For the wine lovers out there, storing your bottles in the garage is a big no-no. Wine needs a stable environment to age gracefully, and garages are far from ideal with their temperature swings. Invest in a wine fridge or store your collection in a cool, dark place inside.”

Propane Tanks & Chemicals

It should go without saying, but the garage is not the place to store any hazardous chemicals or extra propane tanks. “Storing propane tanks in a garage is a major safety hazard in my opinion. I’d prefer not to take the chance,” says Staub. “In the extreme heat of the summer, the risk of leaks increases, which can lead to dangerous gas buildup. In a confined garage space, this poses a significant risk and makes me nervous. Propane tanks should be stored in a well-ventilated outdoor area away from potential ignition sources.”

Wood Furniture

If you have real wood furniture or home pieces you’re storing for a rainy day, experts say the garage shouldn’t be your go to for the time being. “Wood and garages just don’t mix,” Summers advises. “The humidity and temperature changes can cause wood to warp, crack, or become a cozy home for pests. Keep your wood furniture indoors to maintain its beauty and integrity.”