And you, what do you store in the cupboard under your sink? Be aware that many people store items there that don’t belong there.
To optimize space in the kitchen, the cabinet under the sink is very practical! But this space still has its particularities: it is often difficult to fit out because of the pipes which take up space and make it susceptible to leaks and humidity. This can lead to bad odors or mold if not taken care of. This cramped space also quickly becomes cluttered, which makes it difficult to access the objects stored there. Good organization is therefore essential to avoid problems and maximize its usefulness. You should know that you can’t fit everything there and that certain items definitely don’t have their place there.
Many people store inappropriate items under their sink, often due to lack of space elsewhere or out of habit. For example, flammable products such as aerosols or rubbing alcohol are a risk, because the humidity and heat of the pipes can promote incidents. Foodstuffs, such as onions or potatoes, deteriorate quickly in this humid and confined environment, favoring mold and unpleasant odors. Electrical appliances, for their part, risk being damaged by a water leak. Finally, textiles like tea towels absorb moisture and can become breeding grounds for bacteria. Dishwasher tablets should also not be stored under the sink. While it seems convenient to store them near the dishwasher, this humid space can damage them and make them less efficient. If stored improperly, they may be easily accessible to children or animals, posing a risk of toxic ingestion.
But what can we store in this space then? Maintenance products, such as detergents, surface cleaners or sponges, find their place there provided they are properly closed and stored in containers to avoid leaks. You can also store household gloves, trash bags or cleaning brushes there, which are not afraid of humidity.
Use adjustable shelves, hanging baskets or dividers to maximize space and keep everything tidy. Also protect the bottom of your cupboard with a waterproof mat to prevent moisture from damaging the surfaces.