The garage is a great storage spot, assuming that it doesn’t become a cluttered catchall, and you are still able to park your vehicle(s) in it. However, there are some items that should be stored anywhere else, but in the space the garage provides. These items include hazardous materials, pet and canned food, paper products, and large appliances like a spare refrigerator or freezer. This will also help with organizing.
Paint: Extreme cold or heat can ruin it. Paint should be stored in a low-moisture, climate-controlled area, rather than the garage. It is a good idea to responsibly dispose of any left-over paint you have no plans to use within the next six months.
Propane: A spark could ignite propane fumes. Tanks should always be stored outside – as far away from the house as possible. You should also always ensure the valve is fully in the “off” position after each use. Propane tanks, empty or not, require responsible disposal.
Pet Food: Mice and other pests consider pet food – they don’t care if it’s open or unopened – an open invitation to dinner. This includes birdseed. Pet food should be stored in air-tight containers and placed in a climate-controlled area.
Paper Goods: Another thing that may attract unwanted house guests is paper goods (e.g., toilet paper, paper towels, paper plates, etc.). It’s a good idea to store these items in your pantry instead. Photographs and other documents should be stored in a hall closet or in some other safe area of the house.
Canned Food: A stockpile of canned beans, vegetables, and tomatoes has a short shelf life in a room that gets hotter than 70 degrees. They can also attract rodents; even if unopened. It’s best to store canned food in your pantry. You can purchase organizers to help keep cans tidy.
Refrigerator or Deep Freezer: In areas that are not climate-controlled, these appliances will battle against the ambient temperature to keep your food and/or drinks cold, which means they will use far more energy than if they were stored in the house.
Electronics: Extreme temperature fluctuations in the garage could damage those DVD players, televisions and computers you’ve been meaning to either sell or donate to your favorite charity. It’s best to keep electronics in the house or other climate-controlled environment.
