8 Winter Storage No-Nos: Keep These Items Indoors—From Paint Cans to Garden Equipment

As autumn settles in and the chill begins to set in, winter is just around the corner. Now is the perfect time to address home upkeep tasks, such as winterizing your pool or transitioning your closet to cozy winter attire. Before the deep freeze arrives, reassess your storage strategy. Certain items left outdoors during warmer months may need to be moved inside—here’s a list of eight things you should always keep indoors during winter.

Food

Snagging a bargain on tuna or chickpea cans might feel thrilling, but ensure your pantry has ample space to accommodate a case or two. "Canned or jarred items can burst or spoil, even when stored in a shed or garage," notes Beth Blacker, a professional organizer. "Cans may split at the seams, and jar seals can fail, exposing the contents to air and raising the risk of bacterial contamination."

However, canned goods aren’t the sole food items to keep indoors, as Maria Anderson, a cleaning and organizing expert, points out. "Perishables and alcoholic beverages should never be left outside during winter," she advises. "Freezing temperatures can ruin perishable foods."

Paint Cans

Whether you’ve just completed a major home renovation or a minor room update, you might have leftover primer and paint. However, avoid stashing these cans in the shed or garage. "Paint cans should always be stored indoors, preferably in a basement, no matter the season, but particularly in winter," Blacker emphasizes. "Cold temperatures can cause the paint to separate, rendering it ineffective."

Cleaning Supplies

While snagging a bulk-sized laundry detergent bottle at a warehouse store might feel like a win, avoid leaving it in the garage until your current one runs out—bring it indoors instead. "Cold weather can diminish the efficacy of cleaning products," Anderson warns.

Outdoor Furniture

During winter, outdoor furniture should be moved indoors. "Steel or iron pieces are prone to rust, which weakens and deteriorates them over time," Blacker explains. "Fabrics, such as cushions, pillows, and rugs, are susceptible to staining and mold or mildew growth due to excess moisture." If indoor storage isn’t an option, opt for high-quality covers or professional wrapping services.

Garden Tools

Though compact, garden tools are often expensive and should be stored inside during winter due to their metal construction. "Leaving them outdoors can cause corrosion and rust," Anderson notes. If storing in a shed or garage is unavoidable, use specialized bags or cases designed for garden tools.

Clay Pottery

Those charming clay pots adorning your deck in summer need to be moved indoors as temperatures drop. "Clay pottery absorbs excessive moisture, and freezing conditions can cause it to chip or crack," Blacker advises.

Electronics

Storing everything can be tricky, but resist the urge to leave old electronics outside. "Devices like computers, smartphones, cameras, and tablets should never be stored outdoors in winter," Anderson cautions. "Freezing temperatures can harm internal components, reduce battery performance, and cause screen malfunctions." If you’re not using older devices, consider selling or donating them if indoor storage isn’t feasible.

Fragile Items

Anderson cautions against storing delicate items like glassware, antiques, and artwork outdoors. "Art pieces, including paintings and sculptures, are vulnerable to damage from moisture and temperature changes," she explains. "Antiques, often crafted from fragile materials, are particularly susceptible to harm from extreme weather conditions."