Medication Storage: What's Safe and What's Not
We all have some kind of medicine in the house—whether it’s prescriptions, vitamins, or over-the-counter remedies. But where and how you store them makes a big difference in how well they work… and how safe they are for everyone in your home.
Safe Ways to Store
Medications
Cool, dry places: A bedroom drawer, hallway cabinet, or even the kitchen can work—as long as the meds are away from heat, steam, and moisture.
Out of reach and out of sight: Use high cabinets or lockboxes if you have kids, grandkids, or curious pets
around.
Separate from food: In the kitchen, avoid storing meds near food prep areas or anything that could spill or contaminate them.
Note: Every now and then, certain medications will need to be refrigerated. So, if anything is in question, ask your pharmacist.
Unsafe Ways to Store Medications
Bathroom medicine cabinets: The steam and heat from showers can damage medications over time.
Next to the stove, oven, or dishwasher: Kitchens are full of
temperature fluctuations and steam—so avoid warm or moist spots.
Pill sorters left unlabeled or lying around: Without original containers nearby, it’s easy to forget what’s what—or worse, mix things up.
Purses, nightstands, or countertops: Easy access for kids or guests means easy access for accidents.
In the car: Extreme heat or cold can alter the medication and make it ineffective—or even
unsafe.
Even one little adjustment—like choosing a better storage spot—can make a big difference in keeping your medications effective and your loved ones safe.
Enjoying my newsletter? Please REPLY and let me know! Also, please forward this newsletter to 5 of your family members and/or friends and share the love!
