Directory of services and resources for basements.

Many basements are damp and even if they have never leaked, excess rain can flood this area quite easily. We tend to keep putting things in the basement, when faced with the overwhelming decision of where to put all your stuff.

However, there are certain items you should never store in the basement. These include books, photos, vital documents, flammable or corrosive chemicals and paint.

Photographs should be organized and placed in acid-free boxes, so you can preserve and enjoy them for years. Photos should never be stored in the basement, as they need to be kept in a dry place. You can consider storing the photo boxes on shelves in a closet or on a shelving unit in the family room, with easy access for everyone to enjoy.

High humidity in most basements can encourage mould growth and attract insects. Moisture could also cause some glues to dissolve from your much treasured books.

Be careful with that radiator, as it can dry out leather bindings. Ideally, store books in closed glass cases away from direct sunlight. Another thought a bookcase.

Important papers can be destroyed by mould, mildew and insects. Original of vital documents should be kept in a safety deposit box at the bank. Ideally, clothing should be stored in a clean, cool, dark and dry environment to avoid mildew.

If your basement isn`t too damp and there is no storage space upstairs, you can store clothing there, if it`s sealed in plastic containers. Do not store clothing in cardboard boxes over a long period of time, as the glue on the boxes may attract insects. Cedar blocks or sachets made of dried herbs inside the containers will help to repel bugs and also add a pleasant fragrance. Clothes should be laundered before storing, as body oils will set over time. Another idea, clean suitcases lined with tissue paper can also be used for storage of clothing. It is not advisable to store clothing in plastic dry cleaning bags, as these trap moisture and may cause mould and mildew over a period of time.

Paint cans can rust when stored in damp basements. Chemicals and paints should be stored away from heat and direct sunlight. Paint would freeze and be destroyed if left for long periods in the basement or garage. Paint only has a one year shelf life.

Most people automatically store vitamins and medications in the bathroom cabinet. This is probably the worst place ever, due to the high humidity. Consider placing them in baskets on a shelf in the linen closet.

Plates and platters can be easily stored in the basement. Plates should be packed in boxes and placed side by side not flat. Wrap them individually, using two to three sheets of clean newsprint paper for each plate. I am sure you are well aware that a wine cellar is the best place to store your wine. Wine bottles can easily be stored in the basement. Store corked wines on their sides on a rack or wooden case. Screw capped wines can be stored upright or on their sides. Keep wine in a dark humid area and avoid drastic temperature fluctuations. Never store wine over the stove or on top of the fridge, because of the heat from thee appliances.

Prevent damage to the things you love by storing them the correct way.