Essential Items You Should Never Throw in the Trash
As the spring cleaning season approaches, many of us may find ourselves ready to declutter our homes. While it’s great to clear out unnecessary items, it’s crucial to remember that some things shouldn’t end up in the trash. This article outlines various items you should avoid throwing away, highlighting their importance for both personal safety and environmental health.
1. Legal Documents
Important legal documents, such as property deeds, wills, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees, should be retained. According to Brooke Soliz Bremmer, an attorney at Sweet James Accident Attorneys, these documents serve as essential proof of identity and ownership. Disposing of them can lead to complications or even legal disputes in the future.
2. Financial Records
Documentation related to your finances is critical for verifying identity and safeguarding against fraudulent activities. Items like social security cards, mortgage documents, and loan statements should be securely stored. While you can dispose of outdated financial statements, remember to shred them to prevent identity theft.
3. Checks
Despite the decline in writing checks due to digital transactions, it’s wise to keep any old checks you might have—not only those that are blank but also previously used ones. As noted by Bremmer, discarded checks can be targets for fraud. Always shred old checks rather than tossing them in the trash.
4. Travel Documents
Boarding passes and travel itineraries often contain sensitive personal information, including frequent flyer numbers. Bremmer warns against tossing these documents carelessly; they should be shredded to protect your privacy.
5. Employment and Pay Records
Records of employment and recent pay stubs are often underestimated in their importance. These documents may be useful during tax audits or for verifying your employment status. It’s advisable to keep them until you are certain you no longer need them.
6. Mattresses
Old mattresses are often discarded improperly, ending up in landfills where they take a long time to decompose. Darrell Gardner, director of product development at CORT, suggests considering recycling or donation as more sustainable disposal methods.
7. Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFLs) contain hazardous materials, making them inappropriate for regular trash disposal. Gardner points out that many communities have recycling programs specifically for these types of bulbs, so it’s critical to utilize such services.
8. Paints and Varnishes
Paint and varnish products come with a variety of chemicals that can be detrimental to the environment. Gardner suggests looking for local disposal events or donation options for unused paint, rather than discarding it in standard waste.
9. Appliances
Large appliances, including refrigerators and washing machines, can pose environmental risks when thrown away carelessly. Gardner advises recycling these appliances whenever possible, as they consist of materials that can be harmful in landfills. Consider checking if your retailer offers haul-away recycling services when you purchase a new appliance.
10. Moldy Items
Items that have developed mold can be a health risk. Michael Rubino, an indoor air quality expert, warns against disposing of moldy objects in the regular trash, as doing so may release harmful spores into the air. Instead, seal any contaminated items in bags and take them to a designated disposal location, while also ensuring the surrounding area is thoroughly cleaned.
In summary, while spring cleaning is an excellent opportunity to declutter, it’s vital to be mindful of what you throw away. Retaining important documents and handling hazardous materials properly not only protects your interests but also contributes to environmental sustainability.
