Organizing your home is becoming more fun with the abundance of adorable plastic containers on the market. Besides the variety of colors, the shapes are often aesthetically pleasing. Box-shaped containers are often a favorite. Using them for storage makes your home look neater and more pleasing to the eye.
But did you know that not all items can, in fact, be stored in plastic boxes? This is especially true for long-term storage. The main problem with plastic items is that they easily become damp and absorb odors. This is why plastic containers are not suitable for storing all items.
According to Spruce, here are the 6 most forbidden items to store in plastic boxes.
1. Smooth and natural fiber fabric
Your finest fashion items made from silk, lace, cashmere, and wool are best kept away from plastic storage containers. These materials can easily deteriorate and develop unpleasant odors if stored in plastic boxes for extended periods. Porous containers specifically designed for storing fabrics are the ideal choice.
2. Objects made of leather
Much like fine fabrics, leather items are prone to mold and cracking if stored in plastic containers. Shoes, belts, bags, wallets, and other items are safer when stored in perforated or air-conditioned boxes to maintain their optimal quality.
3. Electronics
Your sophisticated camera equipment may not be used every day. However, never store it in a plastic box. Mold and moisture will damage the electronics, right down to the internal components. A breathable cotton cloth bag is best. Wrap all the important parts and store them in a wooden box.
4. Important documents and photos
Valuable documents and photos are made of paper. Storing them in a plastic box can cause them to stick together and grow mold. Therefore, the best place to store them is in a waterproof and fireproof container, such as a steel chest.
5. Pet food
If you’re the type of person who pours pet food straight from the bag into a plastic container, think again! The oils in cat or dog food will settle at the bottom of the box. If you’ve stored a large amount of food, this moisture will ruin the quality of your pet’s food and make it smell unpleasant.
6. Food ingredients
If plastic containers aren’t allowed for pet food, they’re also not recommended for storing human food. Plastic containers risk leaching harmful chemicals into the food. Dry or wet foods are best stored in glass jars.
