Your bathroom: a sanctuary for relaxation and personal care. But it’s also a breeding ground for bacteria and humidity, making it a less-than-ideal storage space for certain everyday items. Experts warn against keeping these seven things in your bathroom:
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Medications: The fluctuating temperatures and humidity in a bathroom can degrade the effectiveness of medications. Pills can lose their potency, and liquids can become compromised. It’s best to store medications in a cool, dry place, like a bedroom or kitchen cabinet.
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Makeup: Just like medications, makeup can be negatively affected by bathroom humidity. Powders can clump, creams can separate, and the overall quality of your cosmetics can diminish. Store your makeup in a cool, dry place, away from the steamy environment of the bathroom.
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Perfumes and Colognes: Heat and humidity can break down the chemical structure of fragrances, altering their scent and shortening their shelf life. Keep your perfumes and colognes in a cool, dark place, like a closet or dresser drawer.
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Towels (Long-Term Storage): While it’s convenient to keep a few fresh towels in the bathroom, storing a large stack there long-term is not recommended. The humid environment can make towels damp and musty, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Store the majority of your clean towels in a linen closet outside the bathroom.
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Jewelry: Humidity and moisture can tarnish or damage certain types of jewelry, especially silver and plated pieces. It’s best to store your jewelry in a dry place, like a jewelry box or organizer, ideally outside the bathroom.
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Electronics: While some people enjoy listening to music or podcasts in the shower, it’s generally not a good idea to keep electronics like phones, tablets, or even electric toothbrushes stored in the bathroom. The humidity can damage the delicate internal components.
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Books: The steam and moisture from showers and baths can warp the pages of books and make them musty. Keep your reading material in a dry place, like a bookshelf in your bedroom or living room.
By keeping these seven items out of your bathroom, you can create a healthier and more organized space, while also preserving the quality and longevity of your belongings.
