6 nasty things you NEED to get rid of from around the house
Don’t wait for your next spring clean to get rid of these six things. Here we tell what you should throw out now – and the right way to do it.
Hazardous waste
Aerosol cans, batteries, motor oil, antifreeze, paint — they all need to be disposed of properly so they don’t contaminate the environment or accidently harm children or pets. Visit your local council’s website or search online for ways in which you can dispose of your hazardous waste responsibly.
Mouldy make-up
In case you weren’t aware, all make-up has an expiry date – and some have a shorter shelf-life than you’d think. After that, bacteria that may cause infection can start to grow — especially in eye make-up. Mascara has the shortest shelf life (two to three months), followed by lip gloss (six months). Replace foundation after six months.
Old contact lens cases
Studies show that up to 92 per cent of cases are contaminated due to poor cleaning and hygiene. Eye experts say cases should be replaced every month to three months, and cleaned and air-dried (facedown) daily. Also, make sure you use fresh contact solution every day.
Expired or unused medication
Toss your old medications in a safe, legal, eco-friendly way. Do not flush them down the toilet or put them in the trash. You don’t want to be caught out using something that’s out of date or risk having young ones get into things that belong in the bin.
Expired canned food
Food-safety experts say canned tomatoes and fruits are good for 18 months; canned meat and vegetables, up to five years. So go through your cans regularly and get rid of anything that it too old.
Kitchen sponges that have done their dash
Start fresh with a new kitchen sponge. Studies show it’s the germiest thing in most households, with bacteria thriving in the damp crevices, says microbiologist Philip Tierno, Ph.D., of New York University. To cut contamination, microwave your sponge daily in an inch of water for a minute on high heat.