Bad habits: 10 things we should stop doing
There are actions or habits that we repeat so often in our lives that they become automatic - things we do without even thinking about them. Charging a smartphone, flushing when we go to the bathroom, preparing meals, putting food in the refrigerator are all examples of this. How many times have we repeated these actions in just the last week? But are we really sure we are always doing them correctly?
Certainly there are bad habits that have become part of our daily lives without us realizing it. We list here 10 of these, explaining why it is important to correct them as soon as possible and how to do it.
1. Not cleaning the sponge for washing the dishes
Sponges should always be cleaned regularly to prevent germs from spreading inside them, which we could then transfer to the dishes and kitchen utensils. To make sure we avoid any possible infections, we should immerse the sponges in boiling water for 5 minutes, or put them in a container of water in the microwave for a minute. All germs and bacteria will be eliminated and our sponges will be perfectly clean and sanitized!
2. Not closing the toilet lid
When flushing the toilet, it is important to make sure that you have closed the lid first. In fact, contaminated water mixes with clean water and droplets and particles they carry - if the lid is open - can settle everywhere in the surrounding environment - even on your toothbrush. We bet you'll remember this the next time you flush the toilet!
3. Not measuring out pasta using the spaghetti ladle
Have you ever wondered what the hole in the spaghetti ladle is for? No, the function is not purely decorative, but indicates what the right portion of spaghetti is. If you do not have a kitchen scale but you have a ladle for spaghetti, the next time you cook this pasta, measure the quantity in the following way: insert the spaghetti strands into the hole of the ladle until it is filled. You will now have the perfect portion for one person!
4. Placing dairy products in the refrigerator door
The refrigerator door seems like the ideal place to store eggs and liquids, including milk and its derivatives. However, the shelves on the door are the ones that have the highest temperatures, due to continuous fluctuations caused by the opening and closing of the door itself. Products subject to rapid deterioration - such as dairy products and eggs - should be stored on the lower shelves and towards the back, in order to maintain optimal refrigeration conditions.
5. Recharging your phone at night
Charging your phone for a long period of time can overcharge the battery and ruin it prematurely, according to experts. To avoid having to replace it regularly, only charge the phone during the day and for short periods, unplugging it as soon as it is fully charged.
6. Storing unsanitary items improperly in the fridge
The refrigerator is a perfect environment for germs to proliferate. When storing food, you must make sure, before storing them, that they are perfectly clean - including their packaging. If necessary, replace the wrappers before placing food in the refrigerator. And remember to separate the meat from all other products, to avoid contamination.
7. Putting toilet paper on public restroom toilet seats
How many of you put toilet paper on the toilet seat before using it in a public restroom? Nothing could be less effective: toilet paper does not help keep germs away, but by absorbing moisture, it could become the perfect environment for their transmission. Just make sure that the seat is perfectly dry and that your skin does not have any cuts: it is the best barrier. If you want to be even safer, first disinfect the seat with a gel or a spray.
8. Brushing your teeth too much or too little
Too much turns out to be as harmful as too little in this regard. In fact, recent studies have shown that brushing your teeth too often and for too long during the day can do more harm than good. Make sure you brush your teeth properly for 2-4 minutes, 2 times a day - this will be sufficient for proper oral hygiene. And remember to use a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpastes.
9. Add too much detergent to the washing machine
The right amount of detergent to add to the washing machine is indicated on the container: any dose exceeding the prescribed amount will not make your laundry cleaner. In fact, an excessive amount of foam creates a protector over the dirt and will prevent it from being removed. Do a favour for your laundry and the environment: do not overuse laundry detergent!
10. Don't touch your face frequently
A basic rule of hygiene is to avoid spreading germs over the body. This is why it is not recommended to touch your face too frequently - especially your eyes, nose and mouth. If you really can't do this, first make sure you have properly washed and sanitized your hands.
Which of these bad habits do you have? Will you change your ways after having read this article?
