8 Places You Shouldn’t Put Anything Flammable
Some spots around the house seem like handy storage zones—until you remember what’s nearby. Heat, sparks, friction, and even sunlight can turn a safe-looking space into a real fire hazard. If you’re stashing anything flammable in these spots, it’s time to move it before it turns into a story you don’t want to tell.
Near the Water Heater
This one tops the list. Water heaters kick on and radiate heat, especially older models. Paints, cleaners, and cardboard stacked nearby can ignite without an open flame. Keep that space clear by at least a couple feet.
In the Attic
Attics get hot—sometimes well over 130°F in the summer. Combine that with poor airflow and old wiring, and it’s a bad place for flammable stuff like candles, paper, or aerosol cans. Store those somewhere cooler and safer.
By the Fireplace
The hearth may seem like a cozy storage spot, but stacking firewood or kindling too close is risky. One spark or a shifted log can send embers flying. Give it a buffer zone, even when the fire’s not lit.
Under the Kitchen Sink
It’s convenient, but that cabinet often houses plumbing, dishwashers, and outlets. Storing cleaners, sprays, or paper towels there—especially in bulk—is asking for a flare-up if anything leaks or shorts out.
Next to Power Tools
Flammable rags or solvents left near saws, grinders, or drills can ignite from friction or sparks. Don’t store anything flammable in the same cabinet or shelf as your power gear. Give it its own sealed bin away from the action.
Behind Curtains
Space heaters near curtains, candles in the window, or wax warmers tucked too close to fabric—these all add up to fire risks that are easy to miss. If it flows, flaps, or drapes, keep heat sources away from it.
Near Electrical Panels
Boxes of paperwork or gear stacked up around your breaker box are a bad idea. Not only is it unsafe, it also makes emergency shutoffs harder. Give your panel room to breathe and stay accessible.
In the Shed Near the Mower
That shed might be tight on space, but if your gas can is sitting inches from the lawn mower or battery tools, you’re one mistake away from a dangerous reaction. Store fuel separately and elevated if possible.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
