Your bathroom is a sanctuary for hygiene and self-care, but did you know that certain objects we habitually leave in there can be breeding grounds for bacteria or even damage our health? The humidity and warmth that make bathrooms comfortable also create the perfect environment for mould, mildew, and germs. Here are five items you should remove from your bathroom immediately—and where to store them instead.
1. Medications
It might seem convenient to keep your medicine cabinet stocked and within reach, but the bathroom is the worst place to store medications. The heat and moisture from showers and baths can degrade the potency of pills, vitamins, and other over-the-counter medicines. Exposure to high humidity levels can even shorten their shelf life. Store your medications in a cool, dry place like a bedroom dresser or a kitchen cabinet—away from heat and light.
2. Makeup
Many people leave their daily makeup essentials in the bathroom, but this is a recipe for contamination. Makeup products, especially those with brushes or sponges, can harbour bacteria from the moist environment, leading to skin irritations or infections. Keep your makeup in a dry, cool area, such as a vanity outside the bathroom. Make sure to wash brushes and applicators regularly to prevent bacterial buildup.
3. Towels
While towels are a bathroom staple, leaving them hanging around damp can attract mildew and bacteria. This is especially true for towels that are not properly aired out between uses. Not only does this smell unpleasant, but it also compromises your hygiene the next time you dry off. Take your towel out of the bathroom after each use and hang it somewhere with good airflow to dry completely. Better yet, wash and replace them every two to three days.
4. Jewellery
It might seem convenient to remove your rings or earrings while washing your hands or showering, but the humid environment in the bathroom can cause tarnishing or rusting, especially for pieces made of certain metals. Also, small jewellery items are easy to lose down the drain. Designate a jewellery dish or box outside the bathroom to place your items in before you start your bathroom routine.
5. Books and Magazines
We all love some light reading material while we’re in the bathroom, but leaving books and magazines in such a moist environment can cause pages to warp and disintegrate over time. Worse, they can serve as hiding spots for mould and bacteria. If you must read while in the bathroom, take your book in and out with you. Avoid storing them there permanently to keep them in good condition.