The porch in your home is not just an architectural structure; it’s also a reflection of your personality. It witnesses your musings, family gatherings, and countless memories. It is not a surprise that porches remain a popular feature in all homes. According to a survey, 66.4% of roughly one million single-family homes that started in 2022 came with porches.
If you are lucky enough to have a porch in your home, you should keep it clutter-free and maintain its aesthetic appeal. However, there are a few things that are not meant to be kept on the porch. Check out the list.
Electronics
It is okay to occasionally bring your television or music system outdoors for a party or leisure hours. However, make sure to move them inside immediately after the use. Electronics are highly vulnerable to sunlight, humidity, snow, and moisture. The harsh weather elements can lower their performance and longevity.
You may have to incur a couple of hundred dollars in repair costs. Prolonged exposure to outdoor conditions can also cause irreparable damage. Your neighbors could also get annoyed by the loud noise.
Rattan, Wicker, and Cane Furniture
Furniture made from rattan, wicker, or cane seems appropriate for your porch as it is lightweight and looks trendy. However, these materials are prone to mold and cracks when in continual contact with some weather elements.
For your porch, look for teak, resin wicker, wrought iron, or galvanized steel furniture. If you plan to use rattan, wicker, or cane, cover them when not in use.
Glass Objects
A glass tabletop or artifact will surely spruce up your porch, but it has its disadvantages. Glass is fragile and easily breakable, and people can get injured if it has sharp edges or splinters.
Avoid putting glass objects on the porch or opt for tempered Glass. Tempered Glass is more durable and sturdier than the regular glass.
Upholstery
Placing fully upholstered furniture and soft furnishings designed for indoor use on the porch is not advisable. Such furniture has low durability and UV resistance. Mold and mildew can also grow on them during moist and humid climates. The wear and tear can happen faster than you thought.
Buy porch tables, sofas, cushions, and rugs with weather-resistant, anti-microbial, and quick-drying fabrics.
Garden and Sports Gear
It is expected to leave garden or sports gear on the porch for easy access. Remember that your gear needs better care against rust and corrosion. More importantly, some items for garden and sports can be mistaken for toys by children. People can be injured if they trip and fall over the equipment.
Store your gear in a shed, garage, or wall-mounted racks.
Garbage and Other Dump
Your porch is not a junkyard. It would help to dispose of the trash responsibly per your community’s rules and regulations. If there is anything that you want to recycle, donate, or throw away, act quickly. Don’t let them sit on the porch for long; it could look messy.
These things will also gather dust and grime, creating unsanitary conditions for your home and surroundings.
Holiday/Festive Decorations
Porches in several American homes glitter with Halloween, Christmas, or other decorations weeks after the festive season or special occasion. The owners either want to extend their joy or are too lazy or busy to take down the decorations.
Unfortunately, there is a fire hazard associated with it. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) states that Christmas trees become more flammable as they dry out. Avoid leaving burning candles because they can also cause home fires.
Moreover, wreaths, garlands, lights, and trees kept for too long on the porch may attract pests and rodents.
Footwear
Nearly two in three Americans have a ‘shoes off’ policy inside their homes. While it is good to remove footwear on the porch out of respect or to keep germs at bay, it is not good for your sole mates.
Shoes can develop mildew, become discolored, or get dusty outdoors. Can you afford to see your footwear ruined, especially if it is a pricey pair or made from leather? Please put them in a mudroom or dedicated rack.
Pet Food and Toys
It is natural to put pet food and toys on the porch when you want to spend time outdoors with your dog or cat. However, it can be a problem if you forget to carry the pet stuff back into the house.
Pet items will make your porch disorderly and entice your pet to sneak outside when you are not around. They will also draw the attention of stray animals, bugs, and raccoons. Store pet supplies in a safe location, such as a garage or cabinet.
Cleaning Supplies
Cleaning products contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) responsible for smog formation in the outdoor air and lower indoor air quality. Their chemical constitution may be hazardous enough to pose health and environmental concerns.
Use eco-friendly cleaning products and store them in a safe place. Experts recommend organizing cleaning supplies in a garage, utility room, separate closet near the kitchen or laundry room, airtight containers, or under the sink.
Barbeque Firewood/Charcoal
Americans love barbeque cookouts with friends and family. However, be careful about putting firewood or charcoal on the porch. They can absorb foul odor and moisture or develop mold, making them unfit for cooking.
Store the barbeque fuel in airtight containers in a dry, cool place.