Things will spoil quickly: what you should never store in plastic containers

The advent of plastic containers with a lid has completely changed the approach to storing and cleaning closets for many people. Now you can simply put items in boxes, label them, and sort them on shelves. But did you know that not all things can be stored this way?

Even though plastic seems absolutely safe and convenient, it is impervious to air and moisture. Therefore, if even a little water gets inside such a container, it can have very unpleasant consequences. They also take a long time to cool down after heating. And these are the things that can be really dangerous.

Papers

Think again before storing documents in plastic containers. They can deteriorate if heat or moisture gets inside. This can lead to mold growth, which can irreversibly damage the paper. Documents can even fade if the container is transparent and left in the sun for too long. Instead of plastic containers, consider storing documents in folders or cloth, wire, or cardboard boxes.

Photographs

Photos should also not be stored in plastic, especially if they are old. If the container becomes damp, the photos may stick together, become moldy, and the image may become deformed and altered. If the humidity gets too low, they can shrink or become brittle. Cardboard boxes or special albums are better for archiving photos.

Artwork made of paper or fragile materials

Just like documents or photos, drawings, appliqués, or collages are sensitive to storage conditions. The main attention should be paid to the material that actually comes into contact with the work. For long-term storage, you should first wrap artwork made on paper with a napkin or parchment, and then put it in folders or cardboard boxes.

Cleaning products

Cleaning products that contain chlorine, ammonia, acids, or other harsh ingredients should not be stored in plastic. If such products get hot inside, they will quickly lose their properties and can become dangerous. And any leakage can damage the plastic and become a source of toxic fumes. Therefore, it is better to choose glass and metal containers for household chemicals. Better yet, store them in their original packaging.

Some medicines

Storing medicines in appropriate conditions is extremely important because their effect depends on it. Some need to be stored in the refrigerator, some at room temperature, and none should be left in the sun, so don't store them in a plastic container in inappropriate conditions. Purchase a climate-controlled medicine container or choose a suitable environment for your home medicine cabinet. Avoid transferring medicines from their original packaging to plastic containers such as ziplock bags. Be sure to check the expiration date of your medications.

Electronic devices

If the container gets hot or wet, it can cause damage to the electronics stored in it. If you have no choice but to put your gadgets in plastic, take extra precautions. Put a few silica gel sachets in the box to control humidity. Store the container in a cool, dark place. Don't put it in a basement or attic. Better yet, find cardboard storage boxes for your electronics.

Delicate fabrics

Delicate and environmentally sensitive fabrics are another class of items that should never be stored in plastic containers. Materials such as silk do not tolerate storage in airtight conditions. They can also be easily damaged by excessive heat or moisture. It is better to buy linen covers for such clothes or textiles or put them in wicker baskets that will allow the fabric to breathe.

Leather goods

Leather is a material that requires careful handling both during short-term and long-term storage. Whether natural or artificial, it is sensitive to heat and moisture, so it is important to avoid materials that can retain them, such as cling film or plastic containers. If stored improperly, items such as leather belts, wallets, or jackets can crack, dry out, or become moldy. They are best stored in canvas bags and covers or wrapped in protective wrapping paper.

Shoes made of delicate materials

Shoes made from delicate materials such as leather, suede, velvet, and satin should also not be stored in plastic, as they need constant airflow. It is better to put such items in cardboard boxes or mesh bags. More durable materials, such as rubber or foam, can be stored in plastic, but they should be cleaned and freshened first to prevent them from becoming moldy.

Antiques

Over time, any item becomes very fragile and needs very careful storage with the right temperature and humidity conditions, which a plastic box cannot provide. Wrap antique furniture in breathable materials, such as cloth, rather than plastic wrap. Only trinkets, books, and some fabrics can be put in small boxes, but with certain precautions. Wrap them in newsprint or put them in a cloth bag, put them in a container, add a bag of silica gel, and store them in a dark, cool pantry.

Freshly picked produce

Have you just picked a crop of fruit or vegetables from your garden? Don't put them in the nearest plastic container you have at hand. Fresh produce needs to breathe, and plastic wrap or a bag will prevent this from happening, causing the food to spoil quickly. Choose something else, such as a paper bag or cloth sack. Potatoes and onions are best stored in a net.

Chemicals

Any foods that contain chemicals should not be stored in plastic containers because of the airtight atmosphere and the risk of spillage in the container. These can be pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, pool chlorine or cosmetics such as nail polish remover. They are hazardous materials and should be kept in well-ventilated areas. They should also be stored in such a way that there is no risk of them mixing with each other. They should also be out of the reach of children and pets.

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