Living in a cluttered environment not only affects your family’s luck but can also make people irritable and mentally exhausted, impacting their health. Therefore, don’t be too frugal; discard old and worn-out items as soon as possible.
For instance, the following eight items should be discarded as soon as possible, regardless of your financial situation. This is not superstition; these recommendations are based on scientific evidence.
1. Old dishwashing sponges and cloths
Many people believe that dishwashing sponges and cloths can be reused after washing, even if they are stained or damaged. However, as most people know, this practice is extremely harmful to your health. If not replaced regularly, these sponges and cloths can harbor bacteria and germs, even if they are cleaned frequently. Moreover, their cleaning effectiveness diminishes over time. Such inefficient frugality is truly not worth it.
Therefore, daily-use items like dishwashing sponges should be replaced at least once every one to two months. Otherwise, they will genuinely harm your health and that of your family members.
2. Moldy chopsticks and cutting boards
There are numerous online tips for cleaning moldy bamboo chopsticks and cutting boards. However, in reality, if these items develop mold, it is best not to use them anymore as they will be laden with bacteria and mold. Notably, aflatoxin, a type of mold, can cause cancer.
Furthermore, this type of mold cannot be simply eliminated by scalding with hot water and sun-drying. Therefore, do not hesitate to discard old, moldy chopsticks and cutting boards. Your family’s health is of paramount importance.
Additionally, it is advisable to soak these items in salt water regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
3. Unused cardboard boxes
Many families have a habit of hoarding cardboard boxes, resulting in piles of boxes on balconies, in living rooms, and along corridors. This practice not only occupies space but also creates a dirty and cluttered environment, providing a breeding ground for insects such as mosquitoes, cockroaches, and rats, severely impacting your quality of life.
Moreover, over time, these old cardboard boxes will become damp and moldy, fostering bacterial growth and endangering your family’s health.
4. Pots and pans with peeling coatings
Whether it’s a rice cooker or a non-stick pan, once the coating starts to peel or scratch, stop using it. These damaged coatings can release harmful substances, which, if ingested, can have irreparable effects on your health.
For example, the inner pot of a rice cooker is typically made of aluminum and coated with a layer of paint. If this coating scratches, the aluminum can be exposed and may stick to the rice during cooking, causing significant harm to your health over time.
Additionally, non-stick pans have a Teflon coating that, when worn or peeled, can release a harmful substance called Dover propane at high temperatures. This substance can damage the liver and immune system and even increase the risk of cancer.
Therefore, if you notice any peeling or scratching on your pots and pans, discard them without hesitation.
5. Long-frozen food
Many people have a habit of stockpiling meat and fish in their freezers for extended periods. In reality, frozen food also has a shelf life.
If frozen food is stored for too long, even fresh ingredients can spoil. Therefore, consuming long-frozen food is not recommended, as it not only loses nutrients but can also cause discomfort and lead to the growth of pathogenic bacteria, severely impacting your health.
Generally, meat can be frozen for up to 10-12 months. If this timeframe is exceeded, the food must be discarded. Moreover, from a health perspective, try not to store ingredients in the freezer for too long. Instead, buy only what you need for a short period to avoid excessive stockpiling.
6. Long-opened spices
Cooking often requires various spices like bouillon powder, soy sauce, and fish sauce. However, many people are unaware that spices have expiration dates. Once opened and left for an extended period, they become more prone to spoilage and bacterial growth.
Additionally, condiments like soy sauce, salad dressing, and oyster sauce must be refrigerated after opening. Otherwise, they are particularly susceptible to spoilage in hot and humid weather.
Therefore, regularly inspect your spices after opening. If you notice mold or sediment, discard them immediately. Otherwise, consumption may lead to symptoms like diarrhea, digestive discomfort, or even vomiting.
7. Floor mats
Floor mats are essential in many homes, with some households having several mats in the entryway, kitchen, bathroom, and even on the balcony.
However, many people hesitate to replace their floor mats, using them for years until they are completely worn out. In reality, floor mats should be cleaned regularly and replaced every two years or sooner if damaged.
Floor mats not only accumulate dirt and bacteria but can also emit an unpleasant odor if not cleaned and replaced frequently. Therefore, if your floor mats are older than two years, replace them promptly, even if they appear clean, to avoid any potential health risks to your family.
8. Old mattresses and bed linens
Many people are unaware that mattresses have a finite lifespan. Once they exceed eight years of use, they should be replaced promptly, even if they appear undamaged.
Older mattresses not only have worn-out materials and damage but also provide reduced comfort. Sleeping on an old mattress can lead to back pain and neck stiffness.
Additionally, old bed linens can harbor dust mites, bacteria, and allergens. Therefore, if you notice an unpleasant odor from your bed linens, replace them immediately. Failure to do so can cause skin inflammation, asthma, or respiratory problems.
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