12 Everyday Items You Shouldn’t Keep in Your Bathroom (But Probably Are)

It seems logical to keep daily-use items like makeup, medicine, or even jewelry in the bathroom—but that warm, humid space isn’t as harmless as it looks. Steamy showers, fluctuating temps, and limited ventilation can wreak havoc on certain products and possessions. Here are 12 things you should absolutely keep out of your bathroom—and where to store them instead.

1. Makeup

Humidity and temperature fluctuations in bathrooms can cause makeup to deteriorate faster and become a breeding ground for bacteria. This environment may lead to products expiring more rapidly and key ingredients breaking down, causing makeup to crack or clump. ​ 

Better Storage Option: Store makeup in a cool, dry place, such as a bedroom vanity or dresser drawer, away from direct sunlight. 

2. Medications

Bathrooms often experience high humidity and temperature changes, which can cause medications to break down and lose potency. Moisture and humidity can make medications less effective or cause them to expire before their original date. 

Better Storage Option: Keep medications in a cool, dry place like a bedroom drawer or a kitchen cabinet away from heat sources. ​

3. Perfume

Heat and humidity can cause perfume to break down more quickly, leading to changes in the scent and a shorter shelf life.

Better Storage Option: Store perfumes in a dry, dark place, such as a closet or cabinet, to preserve their fragrance. Some collectors even store their scents in the refrigerator.

4. Jewelry

Bathrooms are prone to high humidity, which can cause jewelry to tarnish or degrade over time. ​

Better Storage Option: Keep jewelry in a clean, dry place, such as a jewelry box with a secure lid, to protect it from moisture and dust.

5. Razor Blades

Storing razors in the bathroom exposes them to damp air, steam, and moisture, which can lead to oxidation and rust. ​

Better Storage Option: Store razors in a dry area outside the bathroom to prolong their lifespan and maintain sharpness.​

6. Towels and Linens

Storing extra towels in the bathroom can expose them to high humidity, leading to mold, mildew, and unpleasant odors. ​ 

Better Storage Option: Keep towels in a linen closet or a well-ventilated area outside the bathroom.​

7. Nail Polish

Heat and humidity can cause nail polish to thicken, separate, or discolor, shortening its usability. r

Better Storage Option: Store nail polish in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature, away from direct sunlight.​

8. Books and Magazines

Bathrooms’ humidity can warp pages and cause mold growth, while odors may linger on the paper. ​

Better Storage Option: Keep reading materials in a dry area, such as a living room or bedroom.​ 

9. Electronics

Moisture can seep into electronic devices, leading to internal damage or corrosion. ​

Better Storage Option: Store electronics in a dry, cool place away from moisture-prone areas.​

10. Skincare Products with Active Ingredients

Heat and light can degrade active ingredients in skincare products, causing them to lose effectiveness more quickly.

Better Storage Option: Store skincare products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.​ 

11. Contact Lenses and Solution

Storing contact lens cases in humid environments like the bathroom increases the risk of contamination. ​

Better Storage Option: Keep contact lenses and solutions in a cool, dry area to maintain sterility.​

12. Toothbrushes: Wait, WHAT?

Okay, we know that we all keep toothbrushes in the bathroom, but let’s talk about placement. Storing toothbrushes near the toilet exposes them to airborne bacteria from flushing. 

Better Storage Option: Store toothbrushes upright in a holder, as far from the toilet as possible, and allow them to air dry between uses.​

Final Thoughts

While the bathroom is a convenient place for many personal items, its humid and fluctuating environment can compromise their quality and safety. By storing these items in more suitable locations, you can extend their lifespan and maintain their effectiveness.

Bidets Are Booming: Do You Have One Yet? Why Americans Are Finally Embracing This Hygienic Upgrade

A bidet is a plumbing fixture designed to cleanse the genital and anal areas after using the toilet. Originating in 17th-century France, bidets have been an integral part of personal hygiene in many countries, particularly in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The word “bidet” is French for “pony,” as early models required users to straddle them much like riding a small horse.

While bidets have been less common in the United States historically, their popularity is rising due to increased awareness of hygiene, environmental sustainability, and comfort. Bidets can be standalone fixtures or integrated into toilet systems, and they now come in a wide range of models suited to various preferences and budgets.

READ: Bidets Are Booming: Do You Have One Yet? Why Americans Are Finally Embracing This Hygienic Upgrade

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