Buying things at the thrift store is a good way to save some money. However, buying certain second-hand items can put your safety at risk and may even cost you more money on repairs and safety scale. Read on to know the used items you should stay away from at thrift stores.

Mattresses

Mattresses are the first things you shouldn’t buy at thrift stores as they may be infested with bugs or other icky insects invisible to the eye. These microscopic creatures hiding in the mattress for a long time may cause harm to you or your house guests. It is always better to buy a brand new mattress to guarantee its cleanliness and safety for your family.

Laptops

Since laptops can be carried or placed anywhere, they may dropped, spilled on, or even get viruses. Also, it’s hard to tell if the laptop you’re buying is in good condition since the owner is selling it out. Better buy a new one since new laptops have warranty, guaranteed to be in good condition, and come in low prices too.

Swimsuits or Undergarments

Beachwear and underwear are extremely personal products and have been used to cover some private parts. While it doesn’t really cause too much risk on you, it is uncomfortable knowing that they have been worn by another person you don’t actually know.

Makeup or Cosmetics

Makeup or cosmetics are another personal items you shouldn’t buy at thrift stores. Makeup brushes may come into contact with damaged or irritated skin and can‘t  be cleaned very well. Barely used pressed powder or lipstick may also be hosting bacteria and can damage or irritate your skin. It is always better to buy these items at drug stores or makeup stores since they offer fresh, new, and varieties that will fit your skin type.

Other items you shouldn’t  buy at thrift stores are helmets, hat, shoes, Plasma TV, and second-hand possessions that you are never sure of the quality or condition. It’s always better to take into account of the products’ quality than just being concern about saving a few bucks but can cost you big on the safety scale.
 
Choosing the best quality of meat is the first step to healthy eating and delicious cooking. The quality of meat plays an important role in achieving a desirable result and taste and assures the longevity of the meat. To help you distinguish fresh meat, here are some tips you can consider.

Color

Color is an excellent indicator to tell if the meat is fresh or not. Mostly, the color of the meat varies on the cut or where the animal is coming from. If you’re buying beef, it should have a bright red color, pork should be pinkish, and white or pale yellow if you’re buying chicken. Just avoid meat with discoloration as it can be a sign of poor handling or that the meat has passed its prime.

Texture

The texture of the meat refers how uniform or lean the meat looks. To ensure that the meat is in good condition, its fiber should be intact and firm to the touch. Any meat with loose or uneven fiber only indicates that the meat is of poor quality.

Smell

Smell is another important factor you should consider when buying meat. Although different species of animals have their own smell, you should take note that fresh meat have a normal smell. Avoid meat that has a  foul or strange smell.

Cuts

When buying meat, you should also be observant of the pieces of meat displayed. The meat pieces should be about the same size or thickness, even and smooth with no ragged edges. Only choose well-butchered pieces of meat as they display good quality and proper handling.

These suggestions are all vital in picking the best quality of meat. Just learn to distinguish the difference between a high quality meat to a poor one and you’ll surely make beef, pork, or chicken dishes exciting and healthy as always.