13 Things You Should Never Store in Your Attic

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Your attic may seem like the most convenient area to store things you rarely use that are out of season or items you would like to hold onto but have no room for in your home. But not every item should be put in your attic. Attics are generally hot and susceptible to pests that can wreak havoc on your belongings.

This article features 13 things you should never store in your attic.

Important Documents

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Do not store important documents like birth certificates, social security cards, passports, or property deeds in your attic. Sunlight, dampness, or pests can quickly destroy them. Instead, keep them in a safe, fireproof, or safety deposit box.

Valuables

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Jewelry, heirlooms, or collectibles should not be tucked away in the attic. If they are exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, they can warp, crack or discolor. Valuables should be stored in a climate-controlled bin or lockbox.

Electronics

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Keep electronic devices like TVs, computers, and printers out of the attic. The humidity and heat can wear the internal components down over time. If electronics must be temporarily stored in the attic, ensure they are adequately insulated and protect them from extreme temperature changes.

Clothing and Fabrics

While attics may seem suitable for storing seasonal clothing or extra linens, they can damage these items. Heat and humidity can lead to mold growth, musty odors, and fabric discoloration. Store these items in a cool, dry place, such as a closet or storage bin.

Paint and Art Supplies

Paints, markers, and other art supplies should never be stored in the attic. Due to the heat and humidity, they can dry out or change consistency, rendering them useless. They should be in a temperate environment.

Food

Never store food in your attic, as pests and heat can cause rapid spoilage. Canned goods and non-perishables may not be affected easily, but they must be stored somewhere cool and dry, like a pantry.

Musical Instruments

Do not store musical instruments in the attic. When exposed to extreme temperatures and humidity, the instruments’ wood, strings, and structurally relevant materials can warp or sustain damage. Always store instruments in a temperature-controlled room or case.

Leather Goods

Do not store leather items such as jackets, bags, and shoes in the attic. Heat and moisture will cause the leather to crack or grow mildew, which could ruin these pricey pieces. Store them in a closet or storage bin with the proper airflow.

Photographs and Film

Images and film kept in the attic are vulnerable to heat and humidity. These factors can cause photographs to fade, yellow, or crumble into dust. It is better to put them away in a cool, dry location with archival-quality materials.

Plants

Plants cannot survive extreme temperatures and lack of sunlight in the attic. If left unattended, they will quickly wilt and die. Keep plants in areas with natural light and moderate temperatures.

Wooden Furniture

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Wooden furniture can be easily damaged in the attic due to changes in temperature and humidity. The heat can cause warping or cracking, while moisture can lead to mold growth. If storing wooden furniture, ensure it is adequately sealed and protected from extreme conditions.

Pet Supplies

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Dog food, other supplies, and toys should not be stored in the attic. Food can go bad in the heat and humidity, and pests can chew through the plastic or rubber toys. Store pet supplies in a cool, dry place and far from pests

Hazardous Materials

It may seem okay to store potentially hazardous materials like paint thinners or gasoline in an attic, but that’s dangerous. If not stored safely, these flammable items can pose a fire risk. Store all these items in a dry, well-ventilated area that is not easily accessible.