BLOGS

Items That Should Not Be Stored Under the Sink

The area under the sink is often used as a versatile storage space. For most people, it may house cleaning supplies, trash bags, and maybe a fire extinguisher. It can be a convenient place to store items that get moderate usage, but it does not necessarily make a suitable environment for every type of item. Here are a few items that should never be stored under the sink.

Paper or Degradable Products

One of the main risks of storing items under the sink is the moisture level, which can easily compromise anything made of paper or designed to be biodegradable. Even if your sink pipes don’t have a leak, the area still builds up more moisture than others. Over time, items like paper towels may become damp over time, which can, in turn, lead to mold and bacteria growth. And tems like composting bags can also be prematurely worn down by excessive moisture.

Chemicals and Flammables

Many households like to store cleaners like bleach underneath the sink because of the ease of access. But that ease of access can be a double-edged sword if you have pets or children in the house who might be prone to getting into places they shouldn’t. It might be a better idea to store them somewhere out of reach.

On a similar note, any product labeled as “flammable” are generally not good candidates for sink storage either. This includes things like aerosols, varnishes, and rubbing alcohol. Not only can these chemicals be toxic, they may also be at risk of igniting if electric components like the garbage disposal create too much heat or a spark. These are better off left in a garage or other space with good ventilation.

Appliances, Tools, and Electronics

If you have limited cupboard space, you might feel the urge to store your less-used appliances under the sink. But again, the moisture in the area can be a risk to your expensive electronic devices. General dampness may rust vital components over time, and a leak can cause extreme damage to the device if it is powered on while its internal parts are flooded with water.

Tools, even non-powered ones, are also vulnerable to moisture, as it can cause rust and corrosion over time.

Food Items

Again, moisture is the enemy of perishable goods. Even for dry goods, like pasta, spices, or boxed food, a humid environment encourages mold growth. And in the event of a leak, you may lose a large chunk of your food supply in a very short time.

We at Prime Custom Builders hope that these simple tips help you keep your family and home safe from inconveniences and hazards.

By Prime Custom Builders 7-19-2021