The bathroom seems like the obvious place to keep many everyday items. There are cabinets, drawers, shelves, and it’s where we use a lot of those things each day. The problem is that bathrooms are also one of the dampest rooms in the house.
Steam from showers, changing temperatures, and lingering moisture can take a toll on items you might not think twice about storing there. Some products lose their effectiveness. Others wear out faster, collect bacteria, or simply don’t last as long as they should.
If you’ve been using your bathroom as a catch-all storage spot, it may be time to rethink what belongs there. Here are 10 things you should never keep in the bathroom.
Books and Magazines
Paper absorbs moisture quickly. Over time, humidity causes pages to curl, yellow, and develop a musty smell. Even if they look fine at first, repeated exposure to steam weakens the paper. Store books and magazines in a dry room instead.
Perfume and Cologne
Heat, light, and humidity break down fragrance molecules. That’s why a perfume stored in the bathroom can start to smell “off” much sooner. Keep fragrances in a cool, dark place like a bedroom drawer.
Medicine
Despite the name “medicine cabinet,” bathrooms are not ideal for medications. Steam and temperature fluctuations can reduce the effectiveness of pills, capsules, and liquid medicines. A dry, cool cabinet outside the bathroom is a better choice.
Nail Polish
Humidity can cause nail polish to thicken, separate, or become clumpy. Frequent temperature swings don’t help either. For smoother application and longer shelf life, keep polish in a cool, dry drawer.
Toothbrushes (Left Out in the Open)
Toothbrushes belong in the bathroom, but not exposed next to the toilet. Flushing can release bacteria into the air. Keep toothbrushes in a closed cabinet or at least use a protective cover to minimize exposure.
Makeup
Cosmetics break down faster in humid environments. Moisture also encourages bacterial growth, especially in products like mascara and foundation. A vanity in your bedroom is a safer storage option.
Jewelry
Steam and moisture speed up tarnishing and can damage certain gemstones. Metals like silver are especially vulnerable. Store jewelry in a dry jewelry box away from bathroom humidity.
Electronics
Hairdryers, electric razors, and small speakers don’t mix well with moisture. Even when turned off, lingering humidity can damage internal components. Store electronics in a dry cabinet and only bring them in when needed.
Wooden Items
Wood expands and contracts with moisture. Over time, repeated exposure to bathroom humidity can cause cracking, warping, and swelling. Decorative wooden pieces and wooden-handled tools are better kept elsewhere.
Bath Toys
Bath toys may seem like they belong in the tub, but when left wet, they can trap water inside and grow mold. Squeeze out excess water after use and store them in a well-ventilated area to dry completely.
