- Without proper care, some household items can increase the risk of illness or other health concerns.
- Damaged cookware, plastic containers and worn cutting boards can leach microplastics into food.
- Sponges and dishcloths can harbor bacteria, so they should be cleaned or replaced regularly.
You work hard to keep your kitchen clean and safe—sanitizing surfaces, scrubbing sinks and tossing leftovers that have lingered too long in the fridge. After all, safe food prep is just as important as making meals nourishing and delicious. But some everyday kitchen items could still be putting you and your family at higher risk of foodborne illness or other health concerns. We spoke with a food safety expert to uncover which common kitchen tools may be making you sick—and what safer alternatives to use instead.