Plastic storage bins are a popular choice for organizing everything from seasonal clothing to household items. They are inexpensive, durable, and come in a variety of sizes. However, despite their convenience, there are some items that should never be stored in plastic bins. Professional cleaners and organizers highlight several reasons why certain belongings are better kept out of plastic. Here’s an in-depth look at why you should avoid storing these six items in plastic bins.
1. Delicate Fabrics and Natural Fibers
Why It’s a Problem: Delicate fabrics such as silk, lace, and natural fibers like cashmere and wool require special care. Plastic bins can trap moisture and create a humid environment, which is detrimental to these sensitive materials. Over time, this trapped moisture can cause fabrics to develop musty odors, mold, and even degradation.
Expert Advice: Angela Rubin, a cleaning expert from Hellamaid, suggests opting for breathable fabric totes designed specifically for clothing storage. These alternatives allow air circulation, preventing the buildup of moisture and preserving the quality of delicate fabrics.
2. Leather Items
Why It’s a Problem: Leather items, including clothing, shoes, handbags, and belts, are particularly susceptible to damage from excess moisture. Plastic bins can trap humidity, leading to potential issues like cracks, mold, and mildew growth. Leather needs to breathe to maintain its suppleness and prevent damage.
Expert Advice: To protect leather items, use dust bags for smaller items and breathable clothing bags for larger ones. Avoid folding leather goods, which can lead to creases, and always store items individually to prevent oils from transferring and causing stains.
3. Important Documents and Photos
Why It’s a Problem: Plastic bins are not ideal for storing important documents and photographs due to their vulnerability to moisture and temperature fluctuations. In case of flooding or fires, plastic offers little protection, and the documents or photos inside can be quickly ruined.
Expert Advice: Karina Toner, Operations Manager at Spekless Cleaning, recommends using waterproof and fireproof safes for critical paperwork and photos. Additionally, always maintain digital backups of important documents to ensure you have access to them in case of emergencies.
4. Food Items
Why It’s a Problem: Plastic containers are prone to absorbing food odors and chemicals, which can affect the taste and safety of the food stored inside. Furthermore, plastic is sensitive to temperature changes, which can lead to mold and mildew growth over time.
Expert Advice: For long-term food storage, glass containers are a better option. They are less likely to absorb odors and are more resistant to temperature fluctuations. For dry foods, ensure containers are airtight to prevent contamination and spoilage.
5. Electronics
Why It’s a Problem: Electronics are sensitive to both temperature and humidity. Plastic bins can trap heat and moisture, potentially causing damage to electronic components. Moisture buildup can lead to short circuits and malfunctioning.
Expert Advice: To store electronics safely, use breathable fabric totes or cover larger items with a cotton sheet to prevent dust accumulation. Ensure that any storage solution allows for air circulation to keep electronics in good working condition.
6. Pet Food
Why It’s a Problem: Storing pet food in plastic bins can lead to rancidity due to the absorption of oils from the food. Over time, plastic can retain these oils, leading to unpleasant odors and a decline in food quality.
Expert Advice: Wash pet food containers thoroughly with warm water and soap before refilling them. For optimal freshness, use airtight containers that can hold the entire pet food bag, ensuring that the food doesn’t come into direct contact with plastic.
Conclusion
While plastic bins offer a convenient and cost-effective storage solution, they are not suitable for every item. Delicate fabrics, leather goods, important documents, food items, electronics, and pet food each have specific storage needs that plastic bins cannot always meet. By opting for more suitable storage solutions, such as breathable fabric totes, glass containers, or airtight safes, you can better preserve the quality and longevity of your belongings.
Taking these expert recommendations into account will help you avoid common pitfalls associated with plastic storage, ensuring that your items remain in excellent condition over time. By investing in appropriate storage options, you’ll protect your possessions from damage and maintain their value, giving you peace of mind and better organization.
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