20 Things to Get Rid of for Better Home Safety and Health
Your home should be your sanctuary, a place where you feel relaxed, safe, and comfortable. However, some everyday items in your home may quietly affect your well-being. From household cleaners to older furniture or plastic storage containers made from commodity plastics, many common items can contain compounds that may influence your environment, air quality, and comfort. Commodity plastics are widely used due to their inexpensive and versatile nature, but they also pose environmental issues, such as poor biodegradability.
Creating a safer and healthier home doesn’t require drastic changes. Small, intentional adjustments can make a big difference. This article will walk you through 20 common household items you may want to replace or reconsider, offering practical and eco-friendly alternatives that improve air quality and reduce exposure to potentially harmful substances. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to creating a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable home for you and your family.
1. Old or Dirty HVAC Filters
Why you should replace them: Over time, HVAC filters collect dust, pollen, and allergens. The physical properties of HVAC filters, such as their density and tensile strength, affect their ability to trap these particles effectively. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the materials used in HVAC filters is crucial, as it determines whether the material remains rigid and brittle or becomes flexible and elastic. A dirty filter can circulate these particles back into the air, lowering the air quality in your home. If left unchanged, they may also reduce your HVAC system’s efficiency, increasing energy costs and potentially leading to system breakdowns.
How it could affect your well-being: Breathing in airborne particles, especially for those with allergies, asthma, or respiratory conditions, can cause irritation, with symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and throat discomfort. Long-term exposure to allergens can worsen existing conditions and lead to more frequent allergy flare-ups.
What to replace it with: To keep your air clean, replace your HVAC filters every 1-3 months. Opt for HEPA filters, which trap tiny particles such as pet dander, pollen, and dust mites, improving air cleanliness.
Additional tips for improved air quality: Consider using portable air purifiers with HEPA filters in bedrooms and living spaces. These purifiers can be especially helpful for people with allergies or asthma, as they reduce the concentration of airborne particles. Regularly vacuuming with a HEPA-filter vacuum also helps maintain a cleaner home environment.
2. Old Mattresses
Why you should replace it: Mattresses accumulate dust mites, bacteria, sweat, and skin cells over time. Though these particles may be invisible, they build up over the years, making your bed less hygienic and potentially less comfortable. Older mattresses are more likely to contain allergens.
How it could affect your well-being: A mattress that harbors dust mites and allergens could worsen allergies, disrupt sleep, and contribute to respiratory discomfort. Prolonged exposure to these allergens can intensify symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and nasal congestion, reducing sleep quality.
What to replace it with: Mattresses generally last 7-10 years. Choose a hypoallergenic mattress made from materials like organic cotton, wool, or latex, which resist dust mites naturally. Using a mattress cover that blocks allergens can extend mattress life and maintain cleanliness.
Additional tips for a cleaner sleeping environment: Wash your bedding, including sheets, pillowcases, and mattress protectors, once a week in hot water to kill dust mites. Consider washing pillows and other bedding items every few months and occasionally vacuuming your mattress to remove dust.
3. Expired Medications
Why you should dispose of them: Medications have a specific shelf life after which they may lose potency or become less effective. Some medications can also change chemically, making them potentially unsafe once expired.
How it could affect your well-being: Expired medications may not provide the treatment you need, resulting in insufficient or delayed care for illnesses. Chemical changes in expired medications can also cause unintended side effects. For instance, expired antibiotics may be less effective in fighting infections.
What to do instead: Check your medicine cabinet regularly for expired medications. Safely dispose of expired or unused medications at a local pharmacy or through a drug take-back program. Store medications in a cool, dry place for optimal efficacy, avoiding humid areas like the bathroom.
Additional safety tips for medications: To keep your household safe, especially with children or pets, store all medications in a locked or out-of-reach cabinet. Properly label and organize medications by expiration dates to ensure you’re using the most effective treatments.
4. Expired Household Cleaners
Why you should replace them: Household cleaners can degrade over time, losing effectiveness, and some may release chemical fumes. Expired cleaners may not sanitize surfaces effectively, potentially leaving behind bacteria and contaminants.
How it could affect your well-being: Using expired cleaners might not sanitize surfaces as intended. Some expired cleaners can release fumes that irritate the lungs, eyes, or skin.
What to replace it with: Replace expired cleaners with non-toxic alternatives made from natural ingredients. Vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils are safe and effective for everyday use. Many eco-friendly brands offer natural, biodegradable cleaners without harsh chemicals.
Additional tips for eco-friendly cleaning: Create an all-purpose cleaner by mixing equal parts water and white vinegar with a few drops of essential oils for scent. This mixture is effective on most surfaces, from countertops to floors, and is a great alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
5. Plastic Containers with BPA
Why you should replace them: Many older plastic food containers contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical used to harden plastics. Milk bottles are a common example of plastic containers that may contain BPA. When heated or exposed to acidic or fatty foods, BPA can leach into food. The plastic industry has historically produced BPA-containing containers, but there is now a shift towards safer alternatives.
How it could affect your well-being: BPA is an endocrine disruptor, potentially interfering with hormonal balance. Long-term BPA exposure has been linked to potential reproductive issues, developmental problems in children, and increased cancer risk. BPA exposure is also associated with metabolic disorders.
What to replace it with: Choose BPA-free plastic containers or switch to glass or stainless steel, which are safer for both food storage and reheating. Glass and stainless steel are durable, non-reactive materials that do not leach chemicals into food.
Additional tips for reducing plastic use: Reduce your reliance on plastic by using reusable silicone bags, beeswax wraps, or glass jars. This minimizes exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and reduces plastic waste from single-use packaging.
Plastics industry: Important Information to Reflect On
The plastic industry affects human health in several ways, primarily through chemicals involved in plastic production, which can leach into the environment, food, and human bodies. Here’s a closer look at some of the primary health impacts:
Engineering plastics play a crucial role in various industries due to their durability and wide range of applications. These plastics are used in manufacturing vehicle parts and construction materials, often replacing metals to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency. Their significance in modern automotive design and other industries highlights the advantages of engineering plastics in enhancing performance and sustainability.
- Toxic Chemicals in Production: Manufacturing plastic involves chemicals like phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and flame retardants. These can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone regulation and potentially causing issues in reproductive health, development, and metabolic function.
- Exposure to Microplastics: Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that have made their way into food, water, and even the air. When ingested or inhaled, they can cause inflammation and oxidative stress in body tissues, potentially leading to cardiovascular issues, respiratory diseases, and other health problems.
- Air Pollution from Plastic Manufacturing: Plastic production releases toxic air pollutants, including dioxins, benzene, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants are linked to respiratory issues, skin conditions, neurological disorders, and even cancer among individuals exposed, especially those near production plants.
- Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Change: The plastic industry is a significant source of greenhouse gases, which drive climate change and indirectly impact health through extreme weather events, decreased air quality, and changes in disease patterns. Emissions from plastic production also contain compounds that exacerbate respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies.
- Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): Some plastics contain additives classified as persistent organic pollutants. These accumulate in the environment and food chain, ultimately entering the human body, where they can cause long-term damage to organs and the nervous system.
- Chemical Leaching into Food and Water: Plastics used in food packaging, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET), can leach chemicals into food, especially when exposed to heat. These leached chemicals can disrupt cellular functions and increase cancer risk.
Plastics exhibit different mechanical properties based on their molecular structure, such as amorphous and crystalline plastics. The crystalline structure, in particular, influences their overall performance in various applications, affecting properties like elongation, toughness, and thermal conductivity.
The widespread use and disposal of plastic make it difficult to contain these effects, leading to chronic, low-level exposure for people worldwide. This compounded exposure over time represents a significant public health concern, calling for safer alternatives and stricter regulations on plastic production and use.
6. Old Tupperware with Stains or Cracks
Why you should replace it: Plastic containers that are stained or cracked may no longer be safe for food storage. Many plastic containers are made from commodity plastics, which are widely used due to their versatility and low cost. Cracks in plastic create spaces where bacteria can hide, and stained plastic may indicate material breakdown. Additionally, a significant amount of plastic produced for food storage contributes to environmental issues, making it important to choose safer materials.
How it could affect your well-being: Stains or cracks in plastic containers can harbor bacteria, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Microwaving or storing hot food in cracked plastic may release chemicals that leach into food.
What to replace it with: Replace old plastic containers with BPA-free options or use glass or stainless steel. Glass doesn’t stain, crack, or absorb odors, making it safe for the microwave and dishwasher.
Additional tips for safer food storage: Avoid reheating food in plastic containers, even if labeled microwave-safe. Heat can cause plastic to break down and release chemicals. Always transfer food to glass or ceramic dishes before microwaving.
7. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Cutting Boards
Why you should replace them: Plastic cutting boards develop deep grooves from knife use, trapping food particles and bacteria. Over time, even careful washing may not fully sanitize them. Additionally, improperly disposed plastic cutting boards contribute to plastic debris, exacerbating environmental issues.
How it could affect your well-being: Bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella can become trapped in plastic cutting boards, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Plastic boards may also release tiny plastic particles into food.
What to replace it with: Switch to wooden or bamboo cutting boards, which are naturally antibacterial and less likely to develop deep grooves. These materials are easier to sanitize and can be maintained with mineral oil.
Additional tips for maintaining cutting boards: To sanitize wooden cutting boards, scrub them with coarse salt and lemon juice, then rinse thoroughly. Replace boards when they become excessively worn or cracked.
8. Old Carpets
Why you should replace them: Over time, carpets trap dust, allergens, pet dander, and other contaminants, affecting home cleanliness. Carpets made from synthetic materials may also release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and the chemical reaction of these VOCs can significantly impact air quality.
How it could affect your well-being: Old carpets can contribute to respiratory discomfort, especially for those with allergies or asthma. Walking across the carpet can re-release trapped dust and allergens into the air.
What to replace it with: Consider replacing old carpets with hard flooring like wood, tile, or cork, which are easier to clean. If you prefer carpets, choose natural materials like wool, which are eco-friendly and less likely to trap allergens.
Additional tips for maintaining clean floors: If replacing your carpet is not an option, vacuum frequently with a HEPA-filter vacuum to trap dust and allergens. Steam clean carpets every few months to remove deep-seated dirt.
9. Old Furniture with Formaldehyde
Why you should replace it: Furniture made from materials like medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or particleboard may contain formaldehyde, a volatile organic compound (VOC) commonly used in adhesives. Over time, formaldehyde can off-gas, releasing harmful fumes that impact indoor air quality.
How it could affect your well-being: Exposure to formaldehyde can cause irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat. Those with sensitivities, such as asthma, may find symptoms aggravated by prolonged exposure to these VOCs.
What to replace it with: Choose solid wood furniture labeled “low-VOC” or “formaldehyde-free” to reduce the risk of off-gassing. Natural wood furniture is also durable and long-lasting.
Additional tips for improving indoor air quality: Improve ventilation by regularly opening windows and placing air-purifying plants, such as peace lilies and ferns, throughout your home. These plants help absorb VOCs and improve overall air quality.
10. Paraffin Wax Candles
Why you should replace them: Paraffin wax candles are made from petroleum byproducts. When burned, they release harmful substances like benzene and toluene, which can affect air quality and cause respiratory issues.
How it could affect your well-being: Inhaling fumes from paraffin candles can irritate the respiratory system, particularly for individuals with asthma or allergies. These fumes can also create an uncomfortable indoor environment.
What to replace it with: Opt for candles made from beeswax, soy, or coconut wax. These alternatives burn more cleanly, last longer, and do not release harmful chemicals into the air.
Additional tips for a healthier home environment: If you enjoy scents in your home, consider using essential oil diffusers instead of candles. Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus provide a natural, pleasant aroma without impacting air quality.
11. Mold in Bathrooms or Walls
Why you should address it: Mold often develops in damp areas of the home, such as bathrooms, kitchens, or poorly ventilated spaces. Even small patches of mold can release spores into the air, negatively affecting indoor air quality and causing health issues.
How it could affect your well-being: Exposure to mold spores can lead to respiratory symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and throat irritation. For people with asthma or allergies, mold can worsen symptoms and increase susceptibility to sinus infections.
What to do instead: Keep high-humidity areas dry and well-ventilated. Install exhaust fans or use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture buildup, and check for plumbing leaks regularly. If mold is present, clean it with a mixture of water and vinegar or a mold-specific cleaner. For larger mold infestations, consider hiring professionals.
Additional tips for preventing mold: Use mold-resistant paint in high-moisture areas like bathrooms, basements, or kitchens. Regularly wiping down bathroom tiles and walls can also help prevent mold growth in damp environments.
12. Fragranced Laundry Detergents
Why you should replace them: Many commercial laundry detergents contain synthetic fragrances and toxic substances that can irritate sensitive skin and lower indoor air quality. Fragrances in these detergents often contain phthalates, which can interfere with hormonal balance.
How it could affect your well-being: For those with sensitive skin, exposure to synthetic chemicals in detergent may cause rashes, dryness, or allergic reactions. Additionally, some scented detergents release VOCs, which may affect air quality and cause respiratory irritation.
What to replace it with: Switch to fragrance-free or hypoallergenic detergents made from plant-based ingredients. These alternatives are gentle on skin and environmentally friendly, leaving clothes fresh and clean without harsh chemicals.
Additional tips for fresher laundry: Add half a cup of baking soda or vinegar to your wash cycle as a natural laundry booster. Both ingredients soften fabrics, neutralize odors, and reduce static without introducing chemicals.
13. Old Cell Phones and Electronics
Why you should dispose of them: Old electronics, including cell phones, tablets, and laptops, often contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium. Improper disposal can result in environmental pollution, as these contaminants may leach into soil or water systems.
How it could affect your well-being: Improper disposal of electronics can lead to environmental contamination, impacting community health over time. Storing unused electronics at home may also pose fire hazards if batteries overheat.
What to replace it with: Recycle old electronics through certified e-waste recycling programs. Many electronics stores and manufacturers offer take-back programs for safe disposal. Alternatively, donate usable devices to charities or refurbishing organizations.
Additional tips for electronic disposal: Ensure personal data is wiped from devices before disposal. Use factory reset options or data-wiping software for privacy protection.
14. Air Fresheners with Chemical Compounds
Why you should replace them: Many air fresheners contain synthetic chemicals that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. These synthetic fragrances may affect indoor air quality and, consequently, health.
How it could affect your well-being: Inhaling synthetic fragrances may lead to headaches, dizziness, or respiratory irritation. Prolonged exposure to substances like phthalates may also disrupt hormone regulation.
What to replace it with: Replace chemical air fresheners with natural options such as essential oil diffusers, homemade potpourri, or simply open windows to improve air circulation.
Additional tips for naturally freshening your home: Add indoor plants like peace lilies, spider plants, or snake plants. These plants not only enhance decor but are also known for air-purifying properties, absorbing toxins and increasing oxygen levels.
15. Worn-Out Nonstick Cookware
Why you should replace it: Nonstick cookware that has become scratched or damaged can release harmful chemicals, especially when overheated. Older nonstick pans are often coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon, which breaks down at high temperatures, releasing potentially harmful fumes.
How it could affect your well-being: Inhaling fumes from overheated nonstick cookware may cause flu-like symptoms. Additionally, ingesting small amounts of coating material from scratched cookware may pose long-term health risks.
What to replace it with: Consider switching to ceramic, stainless steel, or cast iron cookware, which are free from nonstick chemicals and durable over time. These materials are healthier options for cooking.
Additional tips for caring for cookware: To extend the life of nonstick pans, use silicone or wooden utensils to avoid scratching. Hand wash nonstick cookware gently instead of using abrasives, which can wear down the coating.
16. Ordinary Dish Sponges
Why you should replace them: Synthetic dish sponges are highly prone to bacteria buildup, as they are frequently exposed to moisture and food particles, creating an ideal environment for bacterial growth.
How it could affect your well-being: Using bacteria-laden sponges can lead to cross-contamination, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Sponges can harbor harmful pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella if not replaced regularly.
What to replace it with: Switch to silicone sponges or dishcloths, which resist bacterial growth due to their physical properties, are easy to sanitize, and dry quickly. These alternatives can be cleaned in the dishwasher or washing machine, reducing bacterial buildup.
Additional tips for keeping dish sponges clean: To extend sponge life, sanitize by microwaving damp sponges for one minute or boiling them in water. Replace sponges every one to two weeks, depending on use.
17. Plastic Food Containers and Plastic Waste
Why you should replace them: The chemical composition of plastic food containers, especially those that are older or visibly worn, may contain chemicals like BPA or phthalates that can leach into food when heated or exposed to acidic or fatty foods. Common examples of such plastic containers include milk bottles, which are often made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and other types of plastics.
How it could affect your well-being: Certain chemicals in plastic containers may interfere with hormone balance, and long-term exposure has been linked to potential reproductive and developmental concerns.
What to replace it with: Switch to glass or stainless steel containers for food storage, as these materials do not contain harmful chemicals and can be safely used in the microwave, oven, and dishwasher.
Additional tips for safer food storage: Avoid reheating food in plastic containers, even if labeled microwave-safe. Transfer food to glass or ceramic dishes before microwaving.
Plastic Packaging
Plastic packaging is a ubiquitous part of modern life, used to protect and preserve food, beverages, and other consumer goods. However, the production and disposal of plastic packaging have significant environmental impacts. The plastics industry produces over 400 million tons of plastic packaging every year, with a significant portion of it ending up in landfills or as litter.
The chemical composition of plastic packaging varies depending on the type of plastic used. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a common plastic used for water and soda bottles, while polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is often used for packaging materials such as shrink wrap and blister packs. The production of plastic packaging requires significant amounts of energy and resources, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and plastic pollution.
To reduce the environmental impacts of plastic packaging, many companies are exploring alternative materials and designs. Biodegradable plastics, made from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane, are becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, some companies are using recycled plastics to reduce waste and conserve resources.
18. Old Paint Cans
Why you should dispose of them: Old paint cans, especially those containing oil-based or lead paint, can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air over time, impacting air quality. Even stored paint may release fumes if disturbed.
How it could affect your well-being: Prolonged exposure to VOCs may lead to respiratory discomfort, headaches, and dizziness. In some cases, VOCs are associated with long-term health concerns.
What to do instead: Dispose of old paint properly by taking it to a local hazardous waste facility. For future projects, choose low-VOC or zero-VOC paints.
Additional tips for painting safely:
When painting, work in a well-ventilated area, using fans or open windows to circulate air. Wear a mask if using oil-based paints, and consider eco-friendly options.
19. Expired Makeup and Skincare Products
Why you should replace them: Like medications, makeup and skincare products have expiration dates. Chemical changes in expired products may lead to bacterial growth, loss of effectiveness, and potential skin irritation or breakouts.
How it could affect your well-being: Using expired cosmetics can cause clogged pores, rashes, or infections. Skincare products with active ingredients lose efficacy over time, which may make them irritating.
What to replace it with: Regularly check expiration dates on cosmetics and skincare products. If a product has an unusual smell or texture, replace it. Preservative-free products are also a good option for sensitive skin.
Additional tips for keeping cosmetics clean: Regularly clean makeup brushes and tools to avoid bacterial contamination. Store cosmetics in a cool, dry place to extend their shelf life.
20. Synthetic Air Mattresses or Furniture
Why you should replace them: Synthetic materials like PVC or polyurethane foam in air mattresses and furniture may off-gas, releasing chemicals, including phthalates and flame retardants, especially when new.
How it could affect your well-being: Off-gassing occurs when chemicals release into the air, potentially causing respiratory irritation, headaches, and discomfort.
What to replace it with: Choose natural materials for mattresses and furniture, such as organic cotton, wool, or latex, which are less likely to off-gas. Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or Greenguard for low-emission products.
Additional tips for maintaining a chemical-free home: To reduce exposure to off-gassing, air out new furniture and mattresses in a well-ventilated room before use. Use air purifiers with activated carbon filters to absorb VOCs and improve air quality.
Natural Shilajit and Global Pollution: Our Commitment to a Healthier Planet
The impact of global pollution on nature and human health is a serious issue that we care deeply about. Every step we take affects our planet, and at Natural Shilajit, we believe that caring for your well-being is inseparable from caring for the Earth. That’s why we approach our product with a strong sense of responsibility, incorporating sustainable practices that make a difference:
1. Ethical Harvesting: Our shilajit is sourced from pristine mountain regions, and we’re committed to preserving these fragile ecosystems. By avoiding harmful practices, we honor the natural formation of shilajit, allowing it to grow in harmony with nature.
2. Eco-friendly Packaging: Reducing plastic waste is one of our top priorities. That’s why we use packaging that’s either recyclable or biodegradable, minimizing our footprint and giving you a product that aligns with your values.
3. Sustainable Sourcing: Shilajit takes time to form, and we respect this process. Through sustainable collection methods, we ensure that this precious resource is protected and can continue regenerating for generations to come.
At Natural Shilajit, we’re more than just a wellness brand—we’re a movement toward a healthier planet. Join us in supporting products that nurture both you and the environment. Together, we can create a future where wellness and sustainability go hand in hand.
Summary:
Creating a safer, healthier home involves replacing household items that may release allergens, chemicals, or pollutants into the air. Common items such as old HVAC filters, expired medications and cleaners, worn-out nonstick cookware, and synthetic air fresheners can harbor or release potentially harmful compounds. Other items, like old mattresses, carpets, and furniture made with formaldehyde, can contribute to indoor air pollution and aggravate respiratory issues.
Switching to eco-friendly and natural alternatives—such as HEPA filters, hypoallergenic mattresses, glass containers, and plant-based cleaners—reduces exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs), plastics, and allergens. These changes promote both physical well-being and a more sustainable, low-toxicity home environment. Regularly updating or replacing items and decluttering contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and more comfortable living space for you and your family.