Everyday cleaners are okay to keep under your sink, but harsher chemicals like bleach? Not so much. Recently, my plumber shared with me that any harsh or corrosive formulas like bleach, drain cleaner, and even the food bin, over time, give off gases/fumes, especially when the door is closed for long periods (tip: leave the door open before going to bed to help airflow), that can corrode the bottom of the sink(s) and pipes, which can cause leaks.
2. Backup items
The area under your sink offers valuable storage space, but it isn’t the best place to pack with bulk buys from your most recent Costco run. Keep the area functional and free of clutter by keeping smaller amounts of your supplies handy, and store the rest of your “backups” in your pantry, a closet, or out in the garage.
3. Pet food and treats
If you store pet treats or food under the sink, where it’s often humid they can go moldy. If you want to continue storing pet food or treats under the sink, transfer them from bags and boxes to airtight containers. Or move your pet’s food and treats to a dryer storage location, like a closet or the bottom of your pantry.
5. Things you don't use
Because of its central location, the cupboard under the kitchen sink is a great place to store things you frequently need and use. This could include sponges and scrubbers, garbage bags, extra dish soap, etc. So take an inventory of the items under your sink, and if there are any bottles filled with mystery solutions you forgot to label, or pairs of cleaning gloves that don’t actually fit, find someone who could use them or get rid of them.
6. Anything flammable
It should go without saying, but flammable items don’t belong in the kitchen. This includes products like solvents, thinners, polishes, paints, certain cleaners, and anything else that could potentially burst into flames. This is important if you’ve been keeping any oily rags under your sink, like those used to apply furniture polish or varnishes containing linseed or flaxseed oil. Flammable items and oily rags should be safely stored away in the garage or a closet.
3. Cleaning tools
Sponges, brushes, and scrubbers are fine to keep under the sink. Keep them in a covered storage bin. This helps prevent them from soaking up moisture from leaks or humidity and possibly even getting moldy. (Oh, and be sure to throw your sponges out if they start to smell.)
4. Fire extinguisher
Every kitchen needs a functioning fire extinguisher somewhere in the vicinity, and the cupboard under your sink is a great centralized location for it. You never know when you might need one, and it’s better to be safe than sorry! (I have to get one :-)
What do you keep under your kitchen sink?
Ready to buy? Here are steps you may need to take. The closing costs you can face
Common closing costs in Ontario
Closing costs are extra fees you need to pay when you buy a house. These are on top of the house price and your down payment. How much you pay depends on where you’re buying and what kind of property it is. Different places and different types of homes can have different closing costs. These are the most common ones:
Land transfer tax. Ontario imposes a land transfer tax based on the purchase price of your home. First-time homebuyers may be eligible for a rebate of up to $4,000.
Legal fees. You’ll need a real estate lawyer to handle the paperwork and your real estate transaction. Expect to pay $1,500 to $2,500 for their services. You’ll also need to pay $200 for registration or title fees which should be included in your legal costs.
Title insurance. Title insurance protects you against issues with the property’s title and someone making a fraudulent claim on your home. Costs typically range from $250 to $400.
Home inspection. While optional, a thorough inspection can save you from costly surprises later. Many home sales are conditional on the property passing inspection. Budget $300 to $1000 for this service.
Appraisal fee. This may be requested by your lender. An appraisal usually costs $300 to $500.
Property survey. Some lenders may also ask for an up-to-date survey, which can cost $1,000 to $2,000.
Mortgage insurance. For down payments less than 20%, you’ll need mortgage default insurance from CMHC, Sagen or Canada Guaranty, known as CMHC insurance. This can be up to 4% of your mortgage amount. You can add the insurance premium to your mortgage balance and pay it off as you go, but the provincial sales tax must be paid upfront.
Property tax adjustment. If the person selling your home is ahead on their property taxes, you may need to reimburse the seller for any prepaid property taxes.
Utility hook-ups. There may be fees for connecting services like electricity, gas, and internet.
Moving costs. Don’t forget to budget for the actual move, which can vary widely depending on distance and volume.
By understanding and preparing for the closing costs, you won't be blindsided. I can help you to navigate these costs, and offer you advice you need to get into your first home, or your dream home, with confidence. Call me today at 519-277-2959 to chat.
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