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General cleaning is an essential part of the holiday routine. It is important not only to wash everything and put it in its place, but also to send outdated things to the trash can. Many of them, although they seem convenient and useful, after a while they pose a health hazard.
1. Aerosol air fresheners
On the one hand, we can no longer imagine separate places in the apartment without this convenient device. On the other hand, it is far from being as safe as the manufacturers claim. In enclosed spaces, we are forced to inhale synthetic substances in a concentrated form, which adversely affects the respiratory system.
Instead of masking unpleasant odors, take care to eliminate their source. Avoid mold, dampness or other harmful processes. The toilet should be properly ventilated, ideally forced. If you can’t do without a freshener, make it from natural ingredients. Pour boiled water into a spray bottle and add a teaspoon of any essential oil. Such a freshener will give the apartment a pleasant aroma and will not harm your health.
2. Old washcloths and toothbrushes
Such things, although not disposable, must be replaced periodically. It is better to do this once a quarter, and January is a good month to start counting. The bristles of a brush that you use for more than three months no longer remove plaque. You're just hurting your gums. It is better to buy a new brush even after any respiratory disease - it is very difficult to get rid of harmful microbes and viruses!
Update the washcloth as well, it has accumulated a lot of bacteria. If you are sorry to part with your favorite hygiene product, just stop using it for its intended purpose, and use it instead of a brush to clean the bathroom.
3. Old combs and hair brushes
Another thing that is absolutely in vain considered to have no “best before date”. Bacteria accumulate on combs and brushes, which lead to rapid contamination of the hair and the formation of dandruff. Change the accessory once a year, and your hair will be fresh. Just do not forget to constantly wash the comb, using regular hair shampoo or liquid soap for this.
4. Dirty sponges for washing dishes
This item should be changed at least once every two weeks. In order not to forget to do this, choose sets with sponges of different colors in the store. In this case, you will get used to the fact that the new color of the sponge means that it can still be used.
Old ones can be used to wipe surfaces, a stove, but not dishes. In order not to confuse, cut off a corner from a sponge used for 2 weeks. If you are not sure that you will be able to change the dishwashing device in time, give up the sponge in favor of microfiber cloths or rags made from natural fabrics. They can be boiled or machine washed at high temperatures.
5. Plastic boards
Unlike wooden boards, which contain special resins that prevent the growth of germs, plastic boards are very difficult to keep clean for a long time. Either give each board its own role (for fish, meat and vegetables) and change as often as possible, or use glass and silicone devices. And the classics from the good old wood should not be ignored. Such boards can not only be washed, but also boiled.
6. Spices that last more than two years
Even in sealed packaging, spices, like expensive perfumes, lose their beneficial properties over time. Firstly, their flavor will fade significantly, and you will have to increase the dose. Secondly, most spices change the biochemical properties of the dish by adding nutrients. If the spices are out of date, this effect may not be what you expected. Buy spices in a small dosage and constantly monitor the relevance of expiration dates.
7. Old and uncomfortable shoes
To get started, take an inventory of your shoes on the way out. If you haven't worn a pair for more than two years, you should definitely throw it away. Most likely you were uncomfortable in it, your legs were tired, or you found a model that turned out to be much better. Do not take up space in the apartment with unnecessary things, it is better to give them to those who need it.
Favorite and very comfortable slippers should also be changed periodically. Otherwise, you run the risk of contracting a fungus that multiplies well in synthetic fabric. In addition, over time, the instep support wears out, and the leg begins to take the wrong position. Buy your feet a new pair for the holidays.
8. Old food storage containers
The food container is very handy. But don't use them for too long. Scratches and microcracks form on the plastic, in which bacteria multiply. Metal cans for bulk products should not have the slightest trace of rust. If you put containers in the refrigerator or freezer, use only those with the snowflake icon. Only heat-resistant containers should be placed in the microwave. Both of them change at least once every three months. If you want to place your cereals and spices in beautiful containers that can be used for many years, give preference to glass. It does not emit toxic substances and is less scratched.
