Protect your precious belongings (and stay more organized) by avoiding cardboard storage options.
Getty Images / Oscar Wong
Packing items away in cardboard boxes is one of the worststorage mistakesyou can make.
But I can understand why theyre used so often.
Credit:Getty Images / Oscar Wong
However, storing items in cardboard boxes as a long-term storage solution is a recipe for disaster.
In addition to being a fire hazard, these are some of the reasons why cardboard boxes are problematic.
), these are the items you should avoid keeping in cardboard.
Moths can chew through fabric, plus materials (particularly leather and suede) will be susceptible to mildew.
Instead,store off-season clothesand linens invacuum seal bagsor plastic totes to better protect them.
Food (Yes, Even Non-Perishables)
Steer clear of using cardboard boxes to hold pantry items.
And if moisture is present, canned goods will rust.
Its best tostore bulk itemsin plastic bins so clean-up will be easier when accidents inevitably happen.
Because in the off chance you do, the cardboard can cause them to be illegible.
The acidity in cardboard material will cause papers to fade, yellow, or fall apart.
They can also become stained with mildew and mold or chewed through by bugs.
Photos, newspaper clippings, letters, and similar sentimental items will also become discolored and brittle over time.
Again, acid-free storage will always be the best solution to maintain mementos for generations to come.
Look for keepsake boxes orphoto organizersthat specifically state theyre made with acid-free, or archival, materials.
Electronics
Cardboard boxes provide no protection for electronics, regardless of if theyre old or new.
Chemicals
Cardboard is a highly flammable material, so storing flammable chemicals in a box is asking for trouble.
So, its OK to hang onto ones that are in good condition but do so smartly.
First, ensure theyre empty, dry, and devoid of loose tape.
Then, break them down and sort them by size.
Use rope or string to tie groups of flatted boxes together so theyre easier to organize.
Then, choose a space in your home where pests and humidity or moisture are unlikely to be present.
Inspect them before using them again to ensure theyre still usable for your next move.
