8 Things You Should Never Store in Your Attic, According to Pro Organizers

Paint

While it might be tempting to store excess paint for later touch-ups, the temperature swings in an attic are unpredictable. The result could be hazardous to both your paint and your health. "Paint and chemicals may break down in the heat and become unsafe to use," shares Sarit Weiss, founder of Neat and Orderly NY.

Professional organizer Melanie Summers agrees, recommending that you store any paint, cleaners, and chemicals in a utility closet or shelf in the garage, especially if your climate isn't too hot. (Another option is to return the paint can and any remaining paint to your local recycling center.)

Wooden Furniture

That antique chair from your grandmother’s house? A newly thrifted dresser you haven't found a place for yet? Any vintage wooden furniture you have lying around is best not stored in your attic. 

According to Summers, "wood warps and cracks in fluctuating temps," with humidity in particular being brutal to old wooden furniture.

Musical Instruments

That flamenco guitar you bought on a trip to Spain, or the violin you still pull out every now and then, should not be stored in the attic. “Musical instruments…are highly sensitive to temperature changes,” explains Weiss, “making them prone to mold, warping, or melting.” It’s best to keep them in a temperature-controlled environment in proper, sturdy cases.

Vinyl Records

Vinyl records are a big no-no when it comes to storing them in the attic. “The biggest risk here is if the temperatures get too hot, your records can actually warp over time,” warns storage expert Ryan Majors. ”They can also become too brittle if the space is too dry.” Keep your collection in a temperature-controlled environment—and where you can enjoy them!

Artwork

"Artwork is too fragile for attic conditions," says professional home organizer Michelle Urban. “Heat and moisture can cause fading, cracking, or even mold growth.” No one wants to revisit their precious pieces only to find them irreparably damaged. Better to store your art within the confines of your temperature-regulated home. Even better yet, put it up on the walls.

Photos

Photos are particularly temperature sensitive. “Photos have the added layer of chemicals in the prints that really makes temperature control so much more important,” explains Majors. When stored in the attic, photos are at a severe risk of fading, warping, discoloration, and even mold growth.

Seasonal Candles

If your festively scented candles still have some life in them, storing them alongside your twinkling lights might seem to make sense—but it's not the best storage choice. “Candles are highly sensitive to temperature changes,” notes Weiss, “making them prone to mold, warping, or melting.”

They'll need temperature-controlled storage if you plan on using them again as purchased. (But used candles are also great for crafting!)

Clothes and Linens

When your wardrobe is overflowing or you're swapping out sweaters for sundresses, it might seem logical to store the excess clothing in the attic. However, this isn't the ideal spot for holding your precious threads, especially those made from natural fibers.

"Fabrics attract dust, bugs, and mildew," Summers says, all things which attics could harbor. "Instead of tossing bags of off-season clothes in the attic, try a clear under-bed bin or vacuum-sealed bag system," suggests Summers.