Leave these things out of the garage to keep your familyand your itemssafe.

However, you do need to be mindful about what youstore in the garage.

Additionally, the consistent opening and closing ofthe garage doorcreates the perfect opportunity for pests to sneak inside.

organized garage corner labeled totes work area ride-on toys

Credit: David Patterson

Propane Tanks

Propane tanks pose a serious hazard if left in the garage, or any other closed area.

The propane can potentially leak which can quickly spark a fire, even from simply starting a car nearby.

Paint and Other Chemicals

Prolonged exposure to heat and cold will eventually damage leftover paint.

Garage organized with things on the walls

Credit:Laurie Black

Plus, the bottom of the cans will rust if left on acement garage floor.

But think twice before placing any food here, even non-perishable items likecanned goodsor bottles of wine.

Limit food to the kitchen or pantry by going through expiration dates regularly andmaximizing the spaceyou have available.

The reality is that anything made with fabric will look inviting to bugs and rodents alike.

Plus, mold and mildew will begin to grow in the presence of heat and humidity.

Hand me downs oroff-season apparelshould be organized into labeled totes orvacuum-seal bagsand tucked away inside the house.

Wrap andstore mattresses, rugs, and furniture in a climate-controlled storage unit or in the basement.

Declutter books youll never read again and line the ones you will onto bookcases throughout the house.

Laurie Black

6.

Toys

All indoor toys should stay indoors, particularly plushies or baby items that are often comprised of fabric.

Its fine tostore outdoor toysin the garage as these are designed for rougher conditions.

Scrap out of date electronics andorganize the techyou do use inside a TV console.

Moisture that seeps into the space can cause rust on metal pieces.

Instead, blendantique decor into your current home styleand show these pieces off rather than hide them away.

Logically, it makes sense and technically youcanstore your supply here, but its probably not the ideal place.

Firewood also needs good air flow to stay dry so you can burn.