Storing These 8 Items On Your Balcony Can Actually Be Dangerous

You could be unknowingly risking a fire hazard and others' safety by simply storing certain items on your balcony. As tempting as it may be to deck out your balcony with home furnishings, cooking supplies, and decor, some materials — like paper and glass — can become easily damaged (and therefore dangerous to use) when exposed to outdoor conditions. Even if your balcony or patio is covered by a roof, it is still considered a fire and safety hazard to store grilling equipment, heaters, and flammable liquids out there. If you have any of these items currently sitting on your balcony or outdoor patio, it would be wise to store them elsewhere. 

While some balcony owners use their space as an extra living area, with outdoor chairs, couches, and plants, others use it simply as storage space, which is where the danger can lie. Items, like antiques, cleaning supplies, appliances, and even trash, should not be stored on balconies; instead, they should be kept indoors, while furniture, lighting, and plants (designed for outdoor use) can be kept there safely. 

You should not store your grill on the balcony. In fact, many apartment complexes and building regulations prohibit residents from keeping gas-fired, charcoal, and electric grills on balconies due to fire hazards. According to reports by the National Fire Protection Association from 2019 to 2023, more than a quarter of grill fires were started on open porches or exterior balconies. While electric grills may be permitted by some, you will want to check your building's specific codes. 

Storing any type of heater on an outdoor structure is typically not recommended. While you can use designated outdoor heaters on your balcony, they should not be stored there due to fire hazards and risk of damage. You don't want to risk them tipping over or getting wet, which could cause electrical shorts. When not in use, these types of units should be kept dry and indoors. In general, you should also never use a propane heater in a semi-enclosed or enclosed space, including on balconies.

While you may be tempted to store old or extra appliances on your balcony, especially if you don't have a ton of storage space inside your home, you may want to find another place to put them. Not only will this pose a potential weight risk with heavy appliances, but the weather may cause mold, rusting, and even electrical failure if you do eventually bring them inside to use. Large appliances, such as washing machines and dryers, can also get in the way, becoming another fire hazard. 

Depending on your own HOA or building regulations, you might not be permitted to store any items containing lithium batteries on your balcony. These types of electronics are known to be fire hazards and, in general, should not be stored outdoors, as they can overheat from direct sunlight and catch fire. This includes chargeable items, such as e-bikes, hoverboards, and power tool batteries. These items should be stored in well-ventilated, dry areas, away from direct sunlight. 

As innocent as they may seem, glass objects can also pose a hazard, especially when kept in direct sunlight, like on an outdoor balcony. Any decorative items like mirrors, trays, terrariums, and even beverage bottles can pose a risk. Cold temperatures and weather conditions, such as hail, can cause glass to shatter. Glass can also become a hazard when kept on high-rise floors, risking falls and shattering below. In general, it's best to keep this type of material off your balconies.  

If you don't have a ton of storage space in your home, it's understandable to want to store your trash and recycling piles on your balcony until trash day. However, it's better to take the time to place them in the correct containers instead, as trash can be a hazard and an eyesore on your balcony. If you live in an apartment building, storing waste on the balcony is typically prohibited. Plus, any balcony trash can become a cesspool for insects and rodents, attracting the pests to your home. 

This one goes without saying, but any item containing propane should not be stored on your balcony, especially if you live in a multi-family home. While propane tanks should always be stored outdoors, a balcony is not usually the best option, as it needs to be away from direct sunlight and kept in a cool, shaded environment. Propane tanks should only be stored on a balcony if the space is completely shaded. Do not store your propane tanks in your garage or shed. 

Whether you have an open or semi-enclosed balcony, you should avoid storing delicate paper and fabric products in this area of your home, or outdoor spaces in general. This includes books, photos, cardboard, clothing, and indoor-use upholstered furniture. Items like these are prone to mold, mildew, insects, and more when stored outside. Plus, they can be easily damaged by rain, wind, heat, snow, etc.