Given the recent heavy snowfall and cold temperatures across much of Minnesota, you'd think winter has officially arrived, but that is not the case.

The first day of winter in 2025, which is also the shortest day of the year, is Sunday, December 21, 2025, marked by the Winter Solstice, when the Northern Hemisphere tilts farthest from the sun. In other words, things are only going to get colder and snowier.

So, if you haven't done so already, now is a great time to make sure you're ready for winter by keeping a winter survival kit in your car, stocking emergency kits in your home in case a storm knocks out power or prevents travel, and winterizing your home.

One thing that can easily get overlooked when winterizing your home is prepping your garage for the season by removing items that experts say shouldn't be stored there during winter, such as the items below.

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7 Things You Never Keep In Minnesota Garages During The Winter

According to several home improvement experts, leaving these items in your garage when the thermometer plunges is a bad idea.

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart

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50+ Items Not Accepted At Minnesota Goodwill Stores

In the mood to clean out your closet and home? Make sure you brush up on what you can't take with you at your next Goodwill drop in Minnesota.

Gallery Credit: Lauren Wells