A closet is a designated area for storing clothes, accessories, and other personal items. However, we often make the mistake of storing inappropriate things that may damage the space, affect our clothes, or simply create clutter. Here we present some items you should never store in your closet to keep it organized, functional, and problem-free:
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Food – Keeping any type of food, whether it’s a small snack or a box of cookies, in your closet is one of the worst ideas. Food can attract pests like ants, moths, or cockroaches, besides creating unpleasant odors. Always keep food in the kitchen or pantry, away from your clothes and shoes.
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Dirty Clothes – It might seem convenient, but leaving dirty clothes in the closet can lead to bad smells spreading to the rest of your clean clothes. Also, the humidity and bacteria from dirty clothes can damage the fabrics and encourage mold growth. It’s better to have a designated hamper for dirty clothes outside the closet.
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Beauty Products or Makeup – Storing perfumes, lotions, or makeup products in the closet can lead to accidental spills that stain or ruin the clothes. Moreover, certain cosmetics can lose their effectiveness when exposed to light or temperature changes inside the closet. Ideally, store these products in the bathroom or on a specific dressing table.
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Dirty Shoes – Putting dirty shoes inside the closet is a common mistake. Not only do they transfer dirt and dust to your clothes, but they can also create unpleasant smells, especially if they were worn on damp or rainy days. Make sure to clean them well and let them dry before storing.
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Electronic Items – Devices like old phones, cables, or unused electronic gadgets not only take up valuable space in your closet but can also be a source of clutter. Moreover, the humidity in closets can damage these devices. It’s preferable to keep these items in a drawer or shelf specifically for electronic objects.
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Plastic or Paper Bags – Plastic and paper bags tend to accumulate quickly and create chaos in the closet. Also, they aren’t the best way to protect your clothes, as plastic can trap moisture and damage the fabrics over time. Use fabric bags or special boxes for seasonal clothes storage instead.
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Wet Seasonal Clothing – When storing clothing from other seasons, make sure it’s completely dry and clean. Storing wet garments, like coats or jackets after a rainy day, can lead to mold and bad odors, affecting both the garment and the rest of your closet.
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Cleaning Products – Some cleaning products may contain chemicals that could harm delicate garments if they spill or release fumes. Always keep cleaning products out of the closet, preferably in a dedicated cabinet or in a ventilated and secure location.
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Heavy Objects – Heavy boxes or bulky items can deform the closet structure or damage your clothes if they fall accidentally. They also take up a lot of space that could be used for essential items. It’s better to store heavy objects on suitable shelves or in other storage areas.
- Important Documents or Sensitive Papers – Important documents, such as certificates, contracts, or personal papers, shouldn’t be stored in the closet as they can be damaged by humidity, dust, or accidentally while rummaging through clothes. It’s preferable to have a safe place like a safe or a sturdy filing cabinet.
In summary, maintaining an organized and functional closet involves being selective about what you store in it. By avoiding the mentioned items, you’ll not only protect your clothes and accessories, but you’ll also ensure that your space is a clean, safe, and efficient environment for your daily needs.
