Now that it’s starting to feel like spring, it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning. This is the perfect time to get rid of these nine things…
- Hazardous waste
Things like aerosol cans, batteries, motor oil and paint need to be disposed of properly so they don’t contaminate the environment. You can visit Earth911.com to find a safe place for disposal.
- Plastic containers
Some plastic containers may contain a hormone disrupting chemical, called BPA. BPA can get into food when these plastic containers are microwaved. It is best to get new plastic containers, or replace all plastic containers with glass.
- Expired medications
Toss any expired or unused medications. Make sure to dispose of them in an eco-friendly way!
- Old spices
Dried spices don’t go bad, per se… but they do lose their flavor and nutrients. Seasoning blends last one to two years, herbs and ground spices last one to three years and whole spices last up to four years.
- Old makeup
Make sure you know how old your makeup is. Mascara lasts two to three months, lip gloss lasts about 6 months and foundation lasts 6 months to one year. Once makeup goes bad, it can grow bacteria, which is very unsafe to use.
- Contact lens cases
Contact lens cases can be easily contaminated due to poor cleaning. They should be replaced every two to three months, and cleaned and air-dried daily. Make sure to se fresh solution every day!
- Pillows
You wouldn’t think to replace pillows often, but pillows that are older than 18 months can contain fungi, dead skin and dust mites, which can aggravate allergies, asthma and sinusitis. Test your pillows by folding them in half and squeezing out the air, if they do not spring back into their usual shape it is time to replace them.
- Expired canned foods
Canned tomatoes and fruits are good for up to 18 months, canned meat and vegetables are good up to five years. If you are getting rid of canned food, don’t donate it. If you shouldn’t eat it, no one else should either.
- Kitchen sponges
Kitchen sponges are one of the germiest things in homes. Bacteria thrives in the damp crevices, so make sure to clean your sponges! You can clean some sponges in the dishwasher or you can microwave them daily, for a minute on high heat in about an inch of water.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about decluttering. By getting rid of the things above, you’re also making your home a healthier place.