Have you ever thought twice before lending your things to someone? While sharing is usually seen as a generous and kind act, some spiritual and folk traditions suggest that certain items should never be lent out—unless you want to risk inviting misfortune into your life.

Whether you’re superstitious or simply curious, here are five everyday items that, according to popular belief, are best kept to yourself if you want to avoid bad luck. Read on and decide for yourself!

1. Salt: A Potent Symbol Not to Be Passed Around Casually

Salt isn’t just a kitchen staple—it’s steeped in symbolism. In many cultures, it represents purity and protection. That’s why many traditions caution against lending it.

Here’s a tip: if someone needs salt, feel free to give it away, but don’t expect it back. A “salt for salt” exchange is thought to stir up negative energy, potentially leading to quarrels, illness, or tension in the household. In this case, it’s safer to give than lend.

2. The Broom: Could It Sweep Away Your Wealth?

Though it may seem harmless, a broom symbolizes energetic cleansing. Some say that letting someone borrow your broom—or giving it away without replacing it—can metaphorically sweep away your financial stability. You might find yourself dealing with surprise expenses or mounting bills.

Planning to gift a broom? Legend has it you should wait until you’ve bought a new one to avoid losing your own abundance.

3. Jewelry: Energy Exchange in Disguise

Lending a favorite necklace or pair of earrings may seem like a thoughtful gesture, especially for a big event. But spiritually speaking, jewelry absorbs the energy of its wearer.

By lending it, you could be transferring parts of your vibration to someone else, or taking theirs on in return.

Want to gift jewelry? It’s best to buy a brand-new piece rather than pass along something that already holds emotional or energetic significance.

4. Dishes and Tableware: Carriers of Subtle Home Energy

Porcelain dishes and kitchenware may appear neutral, but they’re believed to retain the atmosphere of the home they come from.

Lending or accepting such items could, according to some beliefs, affect the harmony in your space, possibly leading to emotional strain, tiredness, or health issues.

And here’s a feng shui tip: avoid using chipped or cracked dishes, as they’re considered harbingers of misfortune. A good excuse to declutter your cabinets!

5. Clothing: More Than Just Fabric

Clothes—especially those worn close to the skin, like shoes—are believed by some to hold the energy of their wearer.

That’s why, if you’re a fan of thrift shopping, it’s advised to wash secondhand garments thoroughly and let them soak up sunlight to clear any lingering energy.

When it comes to loaning clothes to friends, it’s wise to think twice, especially if you’re going through a sensitive or emotionally vulnerable time.

Final Thoughts: Tune Into Your Intuition

These beliefs aren’t grounded in science, but they’ve stood the test of time across different cultures. And in the end, a little extra mindfulness never hurts.

If something inside you hesitates when it comes to lending a personal item, don’t ignore that gut feeling. Your intuition is often your best guide.