Whether you have a small room or simply want to maximize space, under-bed storage may seem like a no-brainer. And if you want declutter your homeIt's a great place to keep items hidden and out of sight.
However, unless you have a bed with built-in drawers, are there certain things you should never store under the bed? Experts suggest that not only can dust build up under the bed, especially as it’s an area that even the best vacuum cleaner will struggle to reach, but the items themselves can also be harder to reach and difficult to access. This makes the task more of a hassle than it is worth!
In fact, it's much more practical to donate the forgotten items or invest in proper storage solutions. So, before you even think about storing unnecessary items under your bed, just avoid these items you should never store under the bed, which you probably do.
If you have a growing shoe collection for every occasion, it may be tempting to store a few under the bed. However, experts advise against storing excess shoes under the bed.
Storing shoes loosely under your bed can lead to dust and dirt accumulating on them and even cause damage due to limited space. Also, due to lack of ventilation, it can create excess moisture, which could ruin the quality of the leather shoes.
Invest instead in suitable solutions, under bed shoe organizersor if you want to save space, a hanging shoe rack to place in closets or entryway cabinets. We can recommend this Gorilla Grip Over-the-Door Shoe Rack ($12, Amazon), designed to be odor-free and dust-resistant. Or even opt for a rotating shoe rack like this 3-Tier Chrome Shoe Tree from Honey-Can-Do ($24, Amazon), to fit your different shoe styles.
For more tips, check out these 9 space-saving ideas for organizing your shoes in your entryway.
2. Gym equipment or heavy objects
Whether you are build a home gym To fit your space or work out in your bedroom, it can be difficult to store your equipment. However, avoid storing heavy items like dumbbells, weights, or kettlebells under your bed.
Not only are these items difficult to access, but they can also accumulate dust or even damage the bed frame. More importantly, items that are too heavy to move can cause sudden strains or injuries. It is always best to keep your gym equipment in storage containers or in a closet, so that it is more accessible for your daily workouts.
3. Cardboard storage boxes
If you have too much clutter and want to reuse your empty boxes, avoid storing them under the bed. According to experts, boxes create an ideal environment for all sorts of insects to crawl and hide, such as moths or even termites. Silverfish in particular, are known to hide and feed on old paper and cardboard. In this case, you will need to remove all the cardboard that is cluttering the floor.
Instead, recycle your old cardboard boxes and invest in suitable, ventilated storage bins for your items. In fact, these are the 3 Things You Should Declutter Right Now, According to Expertsto help you with your slaughter!
4. Old electronic devices
Whether you've upgraded your smartphone or device, there's no point keeping that box of old gadgets under your bed. Not only will they attract dust, but they'll easily be forgotten (for years to come!).
If you can't donate or resell them online, you can take them to a local electronics recycling center. These centers are specifically designed to recycle electronics components and safely dispose of lead, mercury, and cadmium in electronics.
5. Important documents or prints
Whether it's old bank statements, documents, business cards or sentimental photos, it might be a good idea to store them under the bed. However, it's an absolute no-no.
Often this space lacks ventilation or is subject to fluctuating temperatures throughout the year.
Therefore, changes in humidity and heat can damage prints or cause them to stick together. Similarly, paper documents can be damaged or discolored by humidity. If you want to keep old documents or prints, they should be stored in a protective box in a dry place or on a shelf or drawer.