If your bathroom doubles as a mini storage closet, you’re not alone. However, it might be costing you more than space. Steam, heat, and moisture can quietly ruin everyday items you use. Here are 10 items you should be moving out of the bathroom right now.
10. Books and Magazines
That stack of magazines by the toilet might seem harmless, but the bathroom’s humidity can destroy them. The pulpy paper acts like a sponge, trapping moisture and creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This ruins your reading material and also releases spores into the air.
9. Framed Photographs
That cherished family photo on your bathroom shelf could also be ruined. The moisture in the air can cause the photo’s emulsion to soften and stick to the glass of the frame. When this happens, it’s impossible to separate them without tearing the image.
8. Hair Brushes
Your hair brush might be getting more than just a few stray hairs. The combination of dead skin cells, hair product residue, and the bathroom’s humidity creates an ecosystem for bacteria and yeast. Every time you brush your hair, you could be transferring microbes back onto your scalp.
7. Nail Polish
Wondering why your favorite nail polish is becoming thick and clumpy? The fluctuating temperatures in your bathroom are likely the culprit. Extreme heat or cold can alter the formula, affecting consistency and quality. To ensure a smooth application, store your nail polish in a room with a more stable temperature.
6. Towels
That musty smell on your towels? It’s a sign that mildew and bacteria are growing in the damp fibers. While it’s fine to keep the towel you’re using in the bathroom, storing your entire linen collection in that area is a mistake. A nearby linen closet is a better option for keeping towels fresh and clean.
5. Razors
Leaving your razor in the shower might be convenient, but it’s one way to get rust. The constant exposure to humidity dulls the blades, leading to a less effective shave and possible skin irritation. To prolong the life of your razors, store them in a dry place, away from the steam of the shower.
4. Powder Makeup
Your pressed powders, eyeshadows, and blush powders are not as safe as you think. The humidity in the bathroom can cause them to harbor bacteria, which can lead to skin irritation and breakouts. This moisture can also affect their performance, which makes them difficult to apply.
3. Perfume
Your favorite fragrance is a delicate work of art, and the bathroom isn’t the best place for it. The warm, humid environment can cause the alcohol and essential oils in perfume to evaporate, altering its scent profile. To preserve the integrity of your fragrances, store them in a cool, dark place like a dresser drawer.
2. Contact Lenses
Your contact lens case may look clean, but it can be a breeding ground for dangerous microbes. A 2010 study found that over half of contact lenses harbor microorganisms, and the bathroom’s humid environment only encourages their growth. This can lead to serious eye infections, so consider keeping your contacts in a less humid room.
1. Medications and Vitamins
Ironically, the medicine cabinet is the worst place to store your medications. A 2021 NIH study found that bathroom humidity can reach 100%, while the ideal for medication is below 60%. This moisture can make your pills less potent or even cause them to spoil. For your health and safety, store all medications and vitamins in a cool, dry place like a kitchen cabinet.