BHG / Sydney Brown
If you’ve joined the trend of decanting, it’s easy to get carried away. Moving everyday items from their bulky packaging into attractive containers is a way to organize your home while maintaining your design style. Decanting not only maximizes storage but also enhances your home’s appearance.
However, decanting may not be practical or necessary for certain household items. Before decanting all your belongings, consider this list of items that are best kept in their original packaging.
Related: 13 Storage Mistakes You’re Making (and How to Correct Them)
Why Decanting Isn’t Always the Best Idea
Decanting offers various benefits, such as creating a cohesive look in your home. Nevertheless, it may not always be the ideal choice. Some items should stay in their original packaging for reasons like convenience and safety. Here are considerations when deciding whether to decant:
– Will I lose important information? Original packaging often includes expiration dates, ingredients, and usage instructions. This information can be lost when decanting. If preserving this information seems like too much effort, it’s better to keep the item in its original packaging.
– Will the product lose freshness? Some products are packaged to maintain freshness, and transferring them may compromise this quality.
– Is decanting convenient for this item? Some items are conveniently packaged for immediate use, and decanting may add unnecessary steps to your routine.
– Is it safe to decant this item? Hazardous items typically have safety features in their original packaging to protect children and pets.
Considering these points, here are items you should think twice about decanting:
Related: Decanting—Is It Necessary? Tips and Tricks from a Professional Organizer
1. Laundry Supplies
Decanting detergent may look beautiful and be practical for laundry duties, but it’s not worth the risk when children are around. Original detergent packaging usually includes childproof features and important dosing instructions.
Related: How to Store Cleaning Supplies Safely
2. Kitchen Condiments
Condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise are designed for easy use with their squeeze dispensers. While transferring them to matching containers may look aesthetically pleasing, it can lead to spills and added chores.
Related: How to Organize Your Freezer in 5 Simple Steps
3. Medicine Cabinet Items
Prescription and over-the-counter medications contain essential information on their packaging, such as dosage instructions and expiration dates. It’s crucial to keep medicines in their original containers for safety.
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1. Pet Supplies
When it comes to storing pet supplies, such as food, treats, and toys, it’s best to keep them in their original packaging to ensure freshness and avoid confusion. Transferring items to different containers can lead to mislabeling and make it harder to find what you need.
Related: 12 Tips for Organizing Your Pet’s Supplies for Peace of Mind
2. Tools and DIY Supplies
Small hardware items like nails and screws often come in labeled compartments or organizers, providing built-in storage solutions. Transferring them to different containers can cause confusion and waste time searching for specific items.
Related: 5 Ideas for Organizing Your Tool Storage
3. Specialty Spices and Herbs
Certain spices, like black peppercorns and Spanish saffron, come in unique packaging or require specific grinders. It’s best to keep them in their original containers to ensure easy use and maintain their freshness.
Related: Tips for Properly Storing Spices from a Professional Organizer
4. Travel Toiletries
Travel-sized products are designed for convenience and portability. Keeping them in their original packaging is ideal, but if you have extras, consider storing them in a clear jar for guests to use in the guest bathroom.
Related: Creative Ways to Organize Travel Toiletries
5. Emergency Supplies
Pre-made first aid and emergency kits are well-organized in their original packaging. It’s important to check them periodically for expiration dates and ensure everything is intact. Consider using a battery organizer for storing batteries safely.
Related: How to Organize Emergency Supplies and Batteries Efficiently
6. Drinks
While decanting bottles of juice or coffee may look appealing for special occasions, it’s not necessary for everyday use. Storing drinks in their original containers in the refrigerator is more practical and saves time.
Related: Tips for Storing Drinks and Beverages Efficiently
For more organization tips and ideas, visit Better Homes & Gardens.
