According to the website Southern Living, every attic has a few forgotten boxes — the ones that were never unpacked after the last move, Grandpa’s coin collection, or old toys saved “for the grandchildren someday.”
+ 10 things from grandma’s house that are too good to throw away
Old photo albums are often placed in cardboard boxes with the feeling that they are protected, but the truth is that this type of storage can cause more damage than protection.
According to the publication, there are items that simply should not be stored in ordinary cardboard boxes, as the material poses silent risks over time.
Why cardboard boxes are not ideal for storage
As Southern Living explains, although cardboard boxes are cheap, accessible, and often reused, they are far from a safe solution. Cardboard deteriorates over time, is easily invaded by insects and rodents, and readily absorbs moisture — especially in places like attics, basements, or garages. In addition, by hiding the contents, these boxes end up causing many important items to be forgotten for years.
Items you should never store in cardboard boxes
Clothing and bedding
According to Southern Living, wool garments or wool blends are especially vulnerable to moths, which can destroy favorite clothing. Moisture also encourages mold, odors, and permanent stains on delicate fabrics.
Important documents
Passports, tax returns, and historical documents should not be stored in cardboard. The publication warns that pests love to gnaw on paper and that heat and humidity accelerate the wear and discoloration of these materials.
Photos and books
According to the site, photos and books suffer from moisture and contact with materials that are not acid free — such as ordinary cardboard. Ideally, they should be kept in cool, dry environments using archival storage boxes.
Electronics
Southern Living highlights that dust, temperature fluctuations, and humidity can seriously damage electronic devices. Even when packed, they should not be stored in cardboard boxes for long periods.
Valuables and fragile items
The bottom of cardboard boxes can give way over time. For heavy or fragile items, the recommendation is to use sturdier and safer containers.
Food
Moths and rodents can easily find food stored in cardboard boxes. In addition, high temperatures speed up the expiration of nonperishable foods, making this type of storage unsuitable.
Christmas decorations
According to the publication, delicate ornaments can break easily, and wires can be damaged by pests or moisture when stored in cardboard for long periods.
Vinyl records
Moisture encourages mold, which can affect both the sleeves and the records. Southern Living also warns that heat and stacking can warp vinyl.
Sentimental items and keepsakes
Old letters, jewelry, coins, and personal keepsakes can oxidize, stain, or degrade when stored in cardboard boxes, especially in humid environments.
Craft supplies
In addition to poor visibility, these items can be damaged by moisture and pests, compromising paints, papers, and fabrics.
Chemical products and hazardous materials
According to Southern Living, chemical products should be kept visible and separated to prevent leaks and dangerous reactions — never inside closed boxes.
Firearms and weapons
These items should be stored in secure locations, with humidity and temperature control, away from children and intruders.
Alternative storage solutions
Southern Living recommends using sturdy plastic bins for documents, photos, and keepsakes, as long as they are completely dry and kept away from excessive heat. Vinyl records should be stored vertically, in proper boxes or on shelves.
Electronics can be protected with antistatic bubble wrap and stored in temperature controlled environments. Clothing is safer in vacuum sealed bags, protective covers, or plastic storage boxes.
The publication also warns that not everything should be stored in plastic: food should be kept on appropriate shelves, and chemical products need to be stored separately and in well ventilated areas.
Source: Southern Living. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
