In daily life, people use many items, but some items can pose a significant threat to health if not properly managed. Experts have revealed four common household items that people should be aware of.
A specialist from the British bathroom retailer Plumbworld mentioned four common items found in most households that could potentially make people ill. While living without these items may be difficult, the advice from these experts should urge people to handle them with caution:
Although non-stick cookware is convenient, it is important to be aware of its potential health risks. When overheated or scratched, the chemical coating on its surface may start to deteriorate, releasing toxic substances into the air or food.
This coating is typically made of polytetrafluoroethylene, which can release toxic gases under high temperatures.
To reduce the risk, avoid preheating non-stick cookware at high temperatures when empty, and replace it once signs of scratches or peeling are detected. Opting for high-quality, durable non-stick cookware helps reduce exposure to toxic substances.
Modern life is heavily reliant on mobile phones and tablets, even in the kitchen and bathroom, yet they can harbor bacteria. These electronic devices can host many pathogens, including E. coli or the flu virus.
If people do not wash their hands before using mobile phones and tablets or while preparing food, these devices can potentially transfer bacteria to the surfaces of food or other objects, increasing the risk of illness.
Regularly cleaning these devices is crucial, especially when using them in high-risk areas. You can use a cloth soaked in 70% disinfectant alcohol to gently wipe these devices, avoiding excessive moisture that could damage them.
Many people use plastic containers to store food in the kitchen, but some plastic containers can release chemicals like bisphenol A and phthalates into food, especially when heated.
These chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system, affecting hormone production and potentially leading to developmental disorders, reproductive system issues, neurological diseases, and immune-related illnesses. To avoid such risks, it is best to use ceramic or glass containers for food storage.
Furthermore, plastic containers without labels indicating they are microwave-safe should not be put in the microwave, reducing the chances of them releasing chemicals.
Studies show that antibacterial cleansers are not more effective in disease prevention than traditional soap, and ingredients like triclosan and triclocarban in these cleansers can contribute to antibiotic resistance issues and skin diseases.
In the long term, these substances can cause water pollution and impact aquatic organisms. People should be cautious when using antibacterial cleansers, opting for products with fewer of these components or sticking to traditional cleaning products.
A spokesperson from Plumbworld said that using a mixture of white vinegar and water is an effective strategy to ensure surfaces are clean without contributing to antibiotic resistance.
The spokesperson added: “Adding essential oils like tea tree or lavender not only enhances the cleaning power of these homemade mixtures but also leaves behind a fresh scent, making the cleaning process more enjoyable.”
The spokesperson also mentioned that opting for natural and eco-friendly cleaning methods not only allows people to live a healthier life but also aligns with the concept of sustainable development. This illustrates how conscious choices in daily life can have far-reaching effects on health and the environment.