3 Items You Should Never Leave in Your Car During Freezing Weather

Charlie Golsley in home living

1/30/25

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Winter weather can take a toll on more than just your car; it can also affect the items you leave inside it. Freezing temperatures can cause certain items to malfunction, become unsafe, or even ruin them completely. To avoid unnecessary damage or danger, it’s important to know what not to leave behind. Here are three items you should never leave in your car during freezing weather.

1. Electronics

Electronics such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Freezing weather can cause the internal components to contract, potentially leading to cracks or hardware malfunctions.

Additionally, the battery life of these devices can be significantly reduced in the cold. If you must take electronics with you in freezing conditions, keep them insulated and avoid leaving them in the car for extended periods.

2. Liquids and Beverages

Liquids, including bottled water and soda, expand when they freeze. This can cause the container to burst, leading to a mess in your car or even damaging the upholstery.

Also, other liquids like cleaning products or cosmetics may separate or lose their effectiveness when exposed to freezing temperatures. If you’re traveling with liquids, bring them inside to prevent leaks or waste.

Water bottle in a car held by someone's hand.

3. Medications

Many medications have specific storage requirements and can lose their effectiveness if exposed to extreme cold. For example, liquid medications like insulin can freeze, altering their chemical composition and rendering them unsafe to use.

Even pills may become compromised if moisture from freezing and thawing seeps into their containers. Always store medications in a temperature-controlled environment to ensure they remain safe and effective.

Freezing weather can turn your car into a risky place for certain belongings. Electronics, liquids, and medications are just a few of the items that can be damaged or become hazardous when left in freezing temperatures. By taking these items inside, you’ll protect them from harm and save yourself the hassle of dealing with unnecessary damage or waste. This winter, make it a habit to double-check your car for these vulnerable items before you head inside.