Moms, the area under the bed is often a lifesaver when the house feels crowded. Rarely used items are usually tucked under it to make the room look tidier and more spacious.
However, without realizing it, the space under the bed can become a breeding ground for dust, mites, and even insects. In fact, certain items are at risk of damage, mold, and even fire hazards if stored there for too long.
Before you start storing things under the bed again, let’s learn what you shouldn’t put there and why. Check out the full explanation below, Mom.
10 items that should not be stored under the bed and why
According to Real Simple and Southern Living , home design and cleaning experts recommend being more selective about what you store under your bed. Here’s a list:
1. Goods made of paper and cardboard
Important documents, souvenir photos, books, and even shoe boxes should not be stored under the bed. Paper materials can become food for insects like silverfish , moths, and even cockroaches.
In addition, paper is also susceptible to moisture and can be damaged if there is a leak or water puddle on the floor.
2. Bed sheets, blankets and textiles
You might often keep a spare blanket under the bed. However, fabric easily absorbs dust and mites, so dust tends to accumulate under furniture and is difficult to see.
3. Leather goods
Genuine leather bags or shoes can dry out quickly, crack, and even discolor if exposed to dust for extended periods. Experts recommend that if you must store them under your bed, use an airtight container for added protection.
4. Heavy or large items
Spare air mattresses, large suitcases, or other heavy objects should not be placed under the bed. Besides the risk of damaging the items, you could also injure yourself when bending over or pulling them out.
5. Food, including packaged snacks
Even if it appears safe because it’s still sealed, food can still attract mice and insects. Cardboard or thin plastic is easily bitten through by pests.
6. Old electronic goods
DVD players, old cell phones, or other electronic devices should not be left under the bed because it turns out that dust can also damage electronic components.
Devices with batteries are also at risk of damage and fire, especially if the battery is lithium.
7. Cables and chargers
Another item that shouldn’t be stored under the bed is cables and chargers. Cables stored carelessly under the bed risk being sucked up by the vacuum cleaner when cleaning the room.
Apart from being damaged, tangled cables can also become a nest for dust.
8. Battery
Batteries, especially lithium batteries, can degrade and potentially overheat. Storing them under your bed isn’t a safe option, Mom, as there’s minimal air circulation.
9. Important documents or sentimental items
Old photos, diplomas, or valuable documents should be stored in a safer, waterproof location. Besides the risk of dust and pests, documents on the floor are more susceptible to damage in the event of a flood or water spill.
10. Children’s toys and shoes
The last items that shouldn’t be stored under the mattress are children’s toys and shoes. Children’s toys, especially those made of cloth, can attract dust and dust mites.
Shoes also have the potential to bring dirt from outside the house into the sleeping area, and can even cause unpleasant odors that disrupt the quality of rest.
Some experts recommend leaving the space under the bed completely empty. A clean area makes it easier for you to clean dust regularly, even if you use a robot vacuum .
