Experts Warn Against Storing These 8 Items in Your Attic

Extreme temperatures and moisture levels in attics can damage or attract pests to certain household items.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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According to professional organizer Cathy Orr, there are several types of items that should never be stored in your home's attic due to the extreme temperature swings and moisture levels that can cause damage. These include important documents, photographs, canned/pet food, clothing, antique furniture, household chemicals, old electronics, and candles.

Why it matters

Storing certain items in the attic can lead to issues like mold, yellowing, warping, pest infestations, and even chemical leaks or explosions. Protecting valuable possessions, important records, and hazardous materials is crucial for home organization and safety.

The details

Orr, the Co-founder of The Uncluttered Life in Arlington, Texas, warns that paper documents, photographs, canned/pet food, clothing, antique furniture, household chemicals, old electronics, and candles are all susceptible to damage from the attic environment. The heat and humidity can cause documents and photos to mold and yellow, food to attract pests, clothing to discolor, and furniture to warp. Chemicals and batteries can also become unstable in extreme temperatures. To preserve these items, Orr recommends storing them in temperature-controlled spaces like closets or using protective containers.

  • The extreme temperature swings and moisture levels in attics can occur year-round, but are often most severe during the hot summer months.

The players

Cathy Orr

The Co-founder of The Uncluttered Life, a professional organizing company based in Arlington, Texas.

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What they’re saying

“One thing I see people do is store paper and documents in their attic. This is a big mistake. Paper can get moldy and yellow when it's stored in the attic. In particular, don't store your children's artwork if you want to keep it longterm.”

— Cathy Orr, Co-founder, The Uncluttered Life

“Canned food or pet food may seem okay to leave in the attic, but this is a pest invasion waiting to happen. Both attract insects and rodents. Instead, keep both in areas where the temperature doesn't fluctuate.”

— Cathy Orr, Co-founder, The Uncluttered Life

“Clothing should never be stored in the attic. The changes in temperature and humidity can cause it to yellow, attract bugs and discolor. Definitely keep clothing in a protected environment. This will also keep it free from dust.”

— Cathy Orr, Co-founder, The Uncluttered Life

What’s next

Homeowners should carefully evaluate any items they plan to store in their attic and find alternative, climate-controlled storage spaces when possible to prevent damage.

The takeaway

Attics may seem like convenient storage spaces, but the extreme temperature and moisture levels can ruin important documents, photos, clothing, furniture, and other household items. Taking the time to properly store these valuables is crucial to preserving them for the long term.