Surprising Items You Should Never Store in Your North Dakota Garage

If you're like me, all my extra stuff ends up in the garage. I have so much stuff in there now, it's amazing I can even park my car in there!

Let's face it, garages are like the basements and attics of our homes—the perfect go-to for extra storage space.

We all have those boxes and crates filled with items we don't use every day. When closet space is limited, storing seasonal clothing, suitcases, knick-knacks, electronics, paperwork, and memorabilia in the garage is tempting.

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But, hold on! Some of these items should never find a home in your garage unless it’s climate-controlled. According to Southern Living, your garage is not an ideal storage space if you live in an area with heat, humidity, or freezing winters.

Extreme temperatures can damage many items, turning your temporary storage solution into a costly mistake. Even items that can be repaired might end up being expensive to fix.

Additionally, combustible and flammable items can pose serious risks, depending on your climate. And let's not forget about the uninvited guests like rodents, raccoons, spiders, and bugs that might make your garage their new home.

Here’s a list of items you should avoid storing in your garage, some of which might surprise you. Keep in mind that Family Handyman warns that even sealed containers are not immune to pests, extreme temperatures, and moisture.

Items to Keep Out of Your Garage:

• Pet Food: Attracts pests and spoils in heat and humidity.
• Food and Wine: Temperature fluctuations can ruin both.
• Blankets and Clothing: Prone to mold, mildew, and pest infestations.
• Paint: Extreme temperatures can cause it to spoil.
• Firewood: Can become a haven for pests.
• Propane Tanks: Risk of explosion or fire.
• Important Documents/Paperwork: Can sustain damage from pests and humidity.
• Photographs: Susceptible to moisture and temperature damage.
• Books: Prone to mold and mildew.
• Electronics: Can be damaged by extreme temperatures and humidity.
• Artwork: Can warp, crack, or become discolored.
• Stuffed Animals: Can attract pests and mold.
• Pillows: Susceptible to moisture and pests.
• Chemicals: Can become dangerous in fluctuating temperatures.
• Easily Flammable Items: Risk of fire or explosion.

So, next time you’re tempted to stash something in the garage, take a moment to consider if it might be better off elsewhere. A little extra thought can save you a lot of trouble down the road!