It’s safe to reuse some items like shopping bags or glass jars, but some other common items? Not so much. When you reuse certain everyday items, they might become bacteria traps or release dangerous chemicals. If you’ve been reusing them for a long time, this is probably the time to let go. Here are 11 common items that should not be reused again.
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Plastic Water Bottles
What about those cheap plastic water bottles you buy at gas stations or take from the refrigerator? Yeah, stop reusing them. The plastic material begins its breakdown process over time and releases chemicals into your water. Plus, without proper cleaning, these items become perfect places for bacteria to multiply. Choose a stainless steel or BPA-free reusable bottle, which can be cleaned easily.
Disposable Face Masks
Are you putting on the same disposable mask repeatedly? Yikes. These masks have a single-use design, bacteria and germs collect inside them after several hours of use. When you continue to use the same mask, you’re inhaling whatever bacteria and dirt it contains. Choose new masks daily or select washable fabric ones that can be cleaned properly.
Plastic Utensils
Do you reuse plastic forks and spoons from takeout meals for later use? Probably not a good idea. The material used for these items doesn’t support repeated cleaning and they may develop small cracks that capture bacteria. When you expose plastic utensils to heat (for example, in dishwashers), they can start to emit dangerous chemicals. Invest in a durable travel utensil set or use stainless steel cutlery instead.
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Paper Towels & Napkins
Using paper towels or napkins more than once may look harmless but these products are not designed for multiple uses. When napkins or paper towels get dirty or wet, they begin to harbor bacteria and break down, which makes them useless. Opt for reusable cloth towels and microfiber cloths.
Old Sponges
Sponges absorb bacteria during each cleaning session. Eventually, they turn into vile germ breeding grounds that spread bacteria across your kitchen surfaces despite repeated rinsing. You should throw away your sponge every one to two weeks or opt for silicone scrubbers, which are durable and easier to clean.
Disposable Razors
Disposable razors that are cheap never last for more than a few uses. The blade will quickly become dull and rusty after minimal usage resulting in razor burn, cuts and potential infections. Once you find yourself pressing down harder to get a close shave, it’s time to say goodbye to your razor. If you want your razor to last longer, choose a high-quality razor with replaceable blades or opt for an electric razor.
Takeout Containers
Many takeout containers look strong enough for reuse, but many of them consist of substandard plastic, which deteriorates especially after exposure to microwaves or dishwashers. They release unwanted chemicals that contaminate your food. Choose glass or BPA-free reusable containers you can safely use multiple times.
Plastic Grocery Bags
It’s risky to continue using plastic grocery bags for an extended period. Every time you use them, they accumulate dirt along with moisture and bacteria from whatever you store in them. Using plastic grocery bags for food storage or as lunch bags spreads germs to your food. Reusing tote bags helps reduce waste but remember to wash them often to keep them clean.
Contact Lens Cases
Although your contact lens case looks clean, bacteria prefer the moist conditions found in them. The longer you use the same contact lens case without changing it, the more likely you are to develop eye infections. Water rinsing cannot sanitize it because tap water may contain bacteria. Swap out your contact lens case every three months and use a fresh lens solution each time.
Loofahs & Bath Puffs
Loofahs help with exfoliation, but they also trap dead skin cells, soap scum, and bacteria. Since they’re often damp, they become breeding grounds for germs, causing you to spread bacteria across your body whenever you take a shower. Dispose of your loofah every month or use a washable washcloth that you can clean often.
Kitchen Cutting Boards
Over time wooden and plastic cutting boards develop deep knife grooves that serve as traps for bacteria. Even thorough washing doesn’t completely disinfect the small grooves on cutting boards. When your cutting board becomes warped, cracked or develops deep grooves, it’s time to get rid of it. Use different cutting boards for raw meat and vegetables and replace them when they show signs of wear.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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