These 7 things should never be stored in plastic bins – don't risk damaging your possessions (2024)

FAQs

These 7 things should never be stored in plastic bins – don't risk damaging your possessions? ›

Important documents, valuables, and delicate items such as photos and artwork are all at risk of being damaged when stored in plastic containers. If any moisture gets into a plastic storage container before sealing it, it will be trapped. This can even lead to mold development if not allowed to dry out.

If it is a number 7 and has the letters “PC” the bottle contains BPA. While all polycarbonate bottles are number 7, some companies do not add the “PC” label. Also, not all plastic with a number 7 label contains BPA. But if the bottle is clear and hard and has the number 7, it could contain BPA.

BPA, phthalates, and other chemicals known as endocrine disruptors act like hormones in our body and affect our natural hormone production. These types of chemicals have been linked to cancer, problems in the reproductive organs, and several other health problems.

For starters, plastic containers are smooth to the touch, which also means they won't snag on delicate fabrics. Their impermeable composition also protects fabric from exposure to moisture or humidity, keeping it fresh and ready to work with.

The best way to store clothes in storage is to place all your clothes in airtight plastic containers with clip-on lids. These will protect your clothes from moisture, dust, mould and mildew. Make sure you give your plastic containers a good clean and dry them thoroughly before you place any clothes inside.

Along with #6 PS (polystyrene) and black plastics, #3 PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and #7 PC (polycarbonate, not to be confused with #7 PLA, polylactic acid, which is a plant-based plastic) plastics are considered among the most toxic plastics to produce, and the most difficult to recycle.

The number 1 represents PET, or polyethylene terephthalate

Mineral water bottles, carbonated drink bottles are made of this material. Dong Jinshi pointed out that hot water can not be recycled in beverage bottles. This material is heat-resistant to 70℃, which is only suitable for warm or frozen drinks.

Important documents, valuables, and delicate items such as photos and artwork are all at risk of being damaged when stored in plastic containers. If any moisture gets into a plastic storage container before sealing it, it will be trapped. This can even lead to mold development if not allowed to dry out.

Research suggests that all plastics may leach chemicals if they're scratched or heated. Research also strongly suggests that at certain exposure levels, some of the chemicals in these products, such as bisphenol A (BPA), may cause cancer in people.

Plastics are ubiquitous, cheap and convenient, but come with a hidden cost: they leach chemicals that contaminate our food and drink, and they create enduring pollution. The best thing to do is minimize your use of plastic, especially in the kitchen.

Is it OK to store blankets in plastic bins? ›

Plastic bins are ideal for protecting your bedding from moisture, pests and dust. Opt for clear bins to easily identify their contents without opening them. Bins are also stackable — saving floor space — and you can slide them under beds or place them on closet shelves.

Put the heaviest knits on the bottom. Plastic bins that go under the bed or on the upper shelves of your closet are acceptable, too. You will have to take an extra step to counter any potential humidity getting trapped inside. Place some silica packets in any plastic storage bins before piling up your sweaters.

Pack desiccators in your containers.

Chuck a few of these packets into your storage containers to simply absorb any moisture that might find its way in; but be sure to check the expiration date and replace them as needed, as desiccators may expire over time.

Leather, silk, cashmere, thick wool garments, and any natural fiber materials that could be damaged by compression should not be vacuum sealed. This may include woven items, hemp, or items with feathers. Basically, if a garment should not be compressed or squashed, it should not go into a vacuum-sealing bag.

Packing clothes in a suitcase can be a convenient option if you're short on storage space. However, suitcases are not ideal for long-term storage as they don't allow for air circulation and can cause creases and wrinkles in your clothes.

#7 plastics include bottles, tubs and jars can be recycled. However, plastic pallets, acrylic plastic (also called acrylic glass) and compostable/biodegradable plastics go in the garbage container. Unless you can donate them, other types of plastic #7, such as Legos, go in the garbage as well.

Polypropylene is a plastic that's used to make everything from rugs to sour cream containers. It's generally considered to be one of the safer plastics. The FDA has approved its use as a food container material, and there are no known cancer-causing effects associated with polypropylene.

The most reliable way to check whether an item is BPA-free is to consult the plastic identification code number — usually stamped on the bottom of the container. There are seven categories, where numbers 1 to 6 are free of BPA. This means that only those printed with the number 7 will contain the chemical.

To make a long story short: plastic recycling numbers 2, 4 and 5 are the safest. Whereas plastic numbers 1, 3, 6 and 7 must be avoided. But it does not indicate that you can fearlessly use safer plastic. All plastic products can leach toxic chemicals when heated or damaged.