Items You Should and Shouldn’t Store in Your Attic

Attics can damage delicate items due to temperature swings, so avoid storing photos, instruments, and important documents there. On the other hand, cookware, sports gear, and holiday decorations can be safely stored with protective bags and bins. It’s important to protect wooden and fabric items, like furniture and wool, from pests and temperature extremes. The attic’s environment can be challenging for many delicate materials due to extreme temperature changes. Yet, with careful planning, you can maximize your attic storage without compromising your belongings.
Here’s what you should never store in the attic:
1. Old Photographs: Relocate them to a stable, dry spot away from temperature fluctuations.
2. Paint: Store in a climate-controlled area to prevent spoilage.
3. Instruments: Avoid attic storage to prevent warping.
4. Expensive Wool, Silk, and Linen: Protect from moth damage and store in airtight containers elsewhere.
5. Wooden Furniture: Prevent warping and cracking by storing in stable conditions.
6. Candles: Store in cooler areas to avoid melting.
7. Important Documents: Safeguard from deterioration in a controlled environment.
Items you can safely store in the attic include:
1. Spare Cookware: Designed to handle temperature changes.
2. Holiday Decorations: Invest in protective storage solutions.
3. Suitcases: Convenient for seasonal storage.
4. Sports Equipment: Typically durable for attic conditions.
5. Ceramic, Metal, and Glass: Ensure they are well-packed to avoid damage.