LIFESTYLE

Shed Storage: What Not to Keep Outside

Sun Jun 29 2025
Outdoor sheds are handy for extra storage, but not everything belongs there. Extreme temperatures can harm many items. Food, for instance, spoils faster in fluctuating heat and cold. Paper boxes of pasta or crackers can attract pests. Clothes and fabrics are also risky. They can mold or get infested with bugs. Even if you cover them, moisture can still get trapped. Propane tanks are another no-no. They can leak and cause fires or explosions if stored in a closed space. Important papers and books can be damaged by moisture, dirt, and pests. Wine and sodas can lose their taste or spoil due to temperature changes. Electronics are sensitive to heat and cold, which can damage their wiring or batteries. Refrigerators and freezers struggle in hot temperatures, using more energy. Wooden furniture can warp, crack, or lose its strength. Valuables are better kept inside, where they're safer from thieves. Batteries lose power in extreme temperatures and can even cause fires. Think twice before storing these items in your shed. Keep them inside to preserve their quality and safety.

questions

    How does the safety of storing propane tanks in an outdoor shed compare to other outdoor storage solutions?
    How can one evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using a refrigerator or freezer in an outdoor shed versus other storage options?
    What would a book say if it could complain about being stored in an outdoor shed with temperature extremes?

actions