13 Household Items You Need to Throw Out Immediately
This post may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission, at no cost to you.
Our homes are filled with a variety of items that we use every day, from kitchen gadgets to cleaning supplies. However, some of these household items can pose serious health risks or become ineffective over time. In fact, there are certain items that you should throw out immediately to protect your health and well-being. Here are 13 household items that you need to get rid of right away.
Plastic Food Containers
Plastic food containers are a staple in many kitchens, but they can pose serious health risks over time. Many plastic containers contain chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which can leach into food and cause hormonal disruptions and other health problems. If your plastic containers are scratched, discolored, or warped, it’s time to toss them out and switch to glass or stainless steel instead.
Old Makeup and Skincare Products
Makeup and skincare products can harbor bacteria and other harmful microorganisms over time, especially if they’ve been opened and used frequently. Old mascara, for example, can cause eye infections, while expired sunscreen may not provide adequate protection against UV rays. As a general rule, toss out any makeup or skincare products that are more than a year old or have changed in color, texture, or smell.
Expired Medications
Expired medications can lose their potency over time, making them less effective at treating symptoms or managing chronic conditions. In some cases, expired medications can even become toxic or cause adverse reactions. To avoid these risks, go through your medicine cabinet regularly and dispose of any expired or unused medications properly, either by returning them to a pharmacy or following the FDA’s guidelines for safe disposal.
Old Sponges and Dish Rags
Kitchen sponges and dish rags are notorious breeding grounds for bacteria and other microorganisms, especially if they’re not cleaned and replaced regularly. In fact, studies have shown that kitchen sponges can harbor more bacteria than a toilet seat! To avoid spreading germs around your kitchen, toss out old sponges and dish rags every few weeks and replace them with fresh ones.
Non-Stick Cookware with Peeling Coating
Non-stick cookware can make cooking and cleaning a breeze, but it can also pose health risks if the coating starts to peel or flake off into your food. When the non-stick coating is damaged, it can release toxic chemicals like PFOA and PTFE into your food, which have been linked to various health problems. If your non-stick cookware is starting to show signs of wear and tear, it’s time to toss it out and invest in safer alternatives like stainless steel or cast iron.
Old Pillows
Pillows can accumulate dust mites, dead skin cells, and other allergens over time, which can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. If your pillows are more than a year or two old, it’s time to replace them with fresh ones. Look for pillows made with hypoallergenic materials like bamboo or latex, and be sure to wash your pillowcases regularly to keep them clean and fresh.
Expired Spices
Spices can lose their potency and flavor over time, especially if they’re exposed to heat, light, or moisture. While expired spices won’t necessarily make you sick, they can make your food taste bland or off. As a general rule, toss out any spices that are more than a year old or have lost their aroma or color. To keep your spices fresh longer, store them in airtight containers in a cool, dark place.
Old Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes can harbor bacteria and other germs over time, especially if they’re stored in a damp or humid environment like a bathroom. The American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed or worn. To keep your toothbrush clean and fresh, rinse it thoroughly after each use and store it in an upright position to allow it to air dry.
Expired Cleaning Products
Cleaning products can lose their effectiveness over time, especially if they’re exposed to heat or light. Expired cleaning products may not kill germs or remove stains as effectively, and some may even become toxic or hazardous. As a general rule, toss out any cleaning products that are more than a year old or have changed in color or consistency. To keep your cleaning products fresh longer, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Old Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for keeping your home safe, but they can become less effective over time. Most smoke detectors have a lifespan of about 10 years, while carbon monoxide detectors typically last for 5-7 years. If your detectors are approaching the end of their lifespan or are not working properly, it’s time to replace them with new ones. Be sure to test your detectors regularly and replace the batteries as needed.
Expired Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers can be a lifesaver in the event of a household fire, but they can also become less effective over time. Most fire extinguishers have a lifespan of 5-15 years, depending on the type and brand. If your fire extinguisher is past its expiration date or has lost pressure, it’s time to replace it with a new one. Be sure to check your fire extinguisher regularly and have it serviced by a professional if needed.
Old Electronics
Old electronics like computers, smartphones, and televisions can contain toxic chemicals like lead and mercury, which can pose health risks if they’re not disposed of properly. If you have old electronics that are no longer working or are outdated, it’s important to recycle them responsibly. Many electronics retailers offer recycling programs, or you can check with your local government for information on e-waste recycling events in your area.
Expired Sunscreen
Sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, but it can lose its effectiveness over time. Most sunscreens have a shelf life of about three years, after which they may not provide adequate protection. If your sunscreen is past its expiration date or has changed in color or consistency, it’s time to toss it out and buy a new one. Be sure to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply it every two hours when spending time outdoors.
15 Signs You Have a High Vibration
15 Signs You Have a High Vibration
