10 Storage Habits That Make Me Nervous Every Time I See Them
There’s a fine line between convenient and dangerous when it comes to storage—especially in tight spaces or old houses. I’ve walked into garages, sheds, and closets and seen setups that made me pause real fast.
Some things aren’t meant to be stacked, squeezed, or stored certain ways—especially near heat, moisture, or wires. These are the habits I spot right away, and they always make me nervous.
Gasoline in the House
Gas cans belong outside, plain and simple. I don’t care how sealed it is—it can leak, it stinks up the whole house, and it’s a fire hazard no matter where you stash it. Stick to outdoor storage in a locked, ventilated shed.
Paints and Stains Near the Water Heater
I’ve seen people store full cans of flammable paint or old stains right next to their water heater. That’s asking for trouble. One spark, even static, and you’ve got a mess that goes up fast. Keep those chemicals far from any heat source.
Heavy Stuff on Top Shelves
It’s tempting to stick that box of tile or tools way up high, but the minute you forget how heavy it is, you’re risking an accident. If it can break a toe or worse, it shouldn’t be above eye level.
Extension Cords in Permanent Use
If your storage setup relies on extension cords running full-time behind shelves or under rugs, it’s time for a rethink. Cords wear down fast when they’re pinched or hidden, and they’re not meant for long-term power.
Propane Tanks Inside
I don’t care how clean your garage is—propane tanks don’t belong indoors. They leak slowly sometimes without you noticing, and if the fumes build up, it only takes one spark to trigger a disaster.
Combustibles in Hot Attics
People toss boxes of old books, candles, and even fireworks up into hot attics like they’re temperature-controlled. Those spaces get insanely hot in summer, and the wrong item can melt, leak, or ignite.
Open Bags of Fertilizer
If you’ve got an open bag of fertilizer sitting in a moist garage corner, you’re asking for corrosion, clumping, and maybe even a chemical reaction. Always seal and elevate it—or store it in airtight tubs.
Tools Stored Sharp Side Up
A rake with the tines pointing up is an accident waiting to happen. Same with shears or blades stuck haphazardly in a bucket. One slip, and you’re headed to urgent care for something that could’ve been avoided.
Flammable Liquids on Wire Shelving
Wire shelves can bend, tip, or break if not anchored right. Store fuel or oil on something stable, lower down, and preferably inside a containment bin, not on a wobbly shelf above your head.
Batteries Tossed in Junk Drawers
Loose batteries thrown in with random metal tools or keys can short-circuit, spark, and overheat. I’ve seen it happen. Keep batteries in their original packaging or a proper storage box with dividers.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
