Every household accumulates over time things that once made sense or that we didn’t know could be risky. However, crockery, utensils and small kitchen tools have their lifespan, we already know more about the previously used materials.
How to recognize what does not deserve a place in the kitchen
Start simple. Open the utensil drawer. There are three ice cream scoops, four scoops, and a blender that hasn’t worked in two years? Get rid of things non-functional and put the ones you use once a year in a further drawer. It is enough to have such things on hand that you use often.
However, it is not only about the frequency of use, another inappropriate group of kitchen tools are those unhygienic. Old sponges, wooden spatulas with cracks or scratched plastic cutting boards can literally be full of bacteria. So can openers with a cut or pans from which the surface peels off. They not only lose functionality, but can also be health risk.
Few people realize that black plastic spatulas and spatulas often contain chemical residues from recycled plastics and even electronics. When heated, they can release substances that you definitely do not want in your food. The same applies to old non-stick pans with damaged surfaces. During cooking, they can release small particles and the so-called “forever substances” PFAS.
Plastic cutting boards in turn release microplastics. With each slice, thousands of them travel into the food. they are generally very practical, but downright problematic.
However, wooden tools can also be unsuitable. If they have cracks, they trap moisture and bacteria. it is advisable to treat with oil. Caution also pays off with old ceramic vessels, older glazes may contain lead or cadmium.
Not only kitchen appliances can be problematic. As they say, mistakes can be made even when arranging the kitchen.
What to change or throw away right away?
If you want to clean up your kitchen, start with these six items:
- Scratched plastic cutting board – replace it with a bamboo or wooden one with a smooth surface. Glass cutting boards are also used.
- Old non-stick Teflon pans are a health hazard. Instead, use cast iron or stainless steel, which will last for years. Ceramic and other modern surfaces are also safe for health.
- Black plastic wooden spoons and spatulas are practical, but harmful to health and nature. Choose stainless steel, wood or silicone without harmful additives.
- Wooden tools that are cracked, difficult to clean.
- Rusty tins and openers, even wire rods that leave small chips behind can be dangerous.
- You can easily replace damaged gloves and other textiles. If they have holes, they do not protect against burns, then they are only suitable for throwing away.
You only need to do an inventory once a year
It’s not about throwing everything away and buying new ones. The goal is for your kitchen to be functional and safe. Quality wood, stainless steel, glass or cast iron will serve you for years and will not burden your health or the planet.
It is enough to do a small inventory once a year and discard what is no longer useful and keep only what you really use. Next time, be careful when shopping.
