Though it’s a necessity when you’re traveling, once you’re back at home, luggage basically sits there taking up valuable space until you need it again.
It may be tempting to stick it in a corner of your basement or garage, or throw it up into your attic without a second thought, but suitcases are expensive, and you probably want yours to last as long as possible.
Here’s what to know about the best and worst places to keep your luggage at home.
The worst places to store your luggage
Before getting into what to do to make sure your luggage doesn’t sustain more damage in your home than out on the road, let’s start with where you should definitely not stash your suitcases. Some examples include:
- Basements: Unless it’s finished and dampness isn’t an issue
- Attics: Hot temperatures and humidity are bad news
- Garages or sheds: Temperature and humidity aren’t ideal
- Enclosed porches or sunrooms: The sun can damage or fade it, and high temperatures can also cause harm
The best places to store your luggage
First and foremost, you need a spot that’s cool and dry, out of direct sunlight, and away from bugs, rodents, and other pests. Here are a few suggestions:
- The highest shelf in a closet
- Under the bed—as long as you put the luggage inside a large (clean) trash bag to protect it from dust
- Under-the-stairs crawl space
- Putting smaller pieces of luggage inside larger pieces
- Hung from (large) hooks or rods on the wall
Take the time to clean your luggage before putting it away until your next trip—especially if it got dirty in transit. Also, check the inside to make sure it’s not even slightly damp, as that could result in the growth of mold and ruin your suitcase. If you’re unsure, leave the luggage open so it can air out.
