Knowing when to throw food out even though it still looks good is important in keeping yourself safe from possible food poisoning and other health-related issues. Checking the expiration date on food containers have become second-nature for so many people because we’ve been taught from a young age that food expires and needs to be thrown out at some point. However, did you know that the food in your kitchen and pantry aren’t the only things in your home that could be expired right now?
Plenty of non-food household items expire, too! Ever noticed how some things in your home just don’t work the same way they used to? They’re not as efficient or as comfortable as they once were. Your first thought when this happens might be that they’re just worn out, but the truth is that they could already be expired and need replacement. Learn about common household items and when they expire in this article.
Item # 1 Hand Sanitizer (2-3 years)
Still got some of those hand sanitizers you hoarded at the start of the pandemic? Check the bottle for expiration dates! Most hand sanitizers expire within 2 to 3 years so if you’re still getting some from your pandemic stash, it might be time to throw those out and buy some new ones.
Item #2 Pillows (1-2 years)
After some time, even the best pillows get clumpy and gross. Think about it: your sweat, drool, and dead skin cells all go on your pillow while you get that good night’s sleep! Experts recommend replacing your pillows every year or two, but if they start smelling or giving you neck problems before that, you can go ahead and replace them earlier too.
Item #3 Mattress (6 to 10 years)
Another thing in your bedroom that you probably haven’t replaced in a while is your mattress. You’ve probably started feeling uncomfortable in it a few years ago but ignored it and, now, your body’s just used to the pain. Mattresses need to be replaced every 8 to 10 years, depending on the type of mattress that you have. If you have a latex mattress, you need to replace them around the 8-year mark while memory foam lasts around seven years, and inner springs around 6 years or so. Higher quality mattresses will last longer, around 10 years, as long as they’re properly cared for.
Item #4 Cleaning sponge (1-2 weeks)
This is an ideal breeding ground for bacteria which is why it’s important to replace them often. Depending on what you’re cleaning with it, you should be replacing your sponge every week or two.
Item #5 Shower sponge and pouf (1-2 weeks)
Like cleaning sponges, shower sponges (and shower poufs) are also a hotspot for germs and bacteria and those are the last things you want to be smearing on your skin. A weekly replacement is ideal, but you can prolong the life of your shower sponge and pouf to a couple of weeks if kept in a well-ventilated space.
Item #6 Towels (1-3 years)
Bath towels, kitchen towels, face towels -- these are some of the most bacteria- and germ-infested items in your home. Wash them regularly and always let them dry in between uses to avoid making them breeding grounds for bacteria. Toss them after 1 to 3 years.
Item #7 Toothbrush (3 months)
If you’re not replacing your toothbrush every 3 months, you’re not really cleaning your teeth that well. Most people wait until the bristles are worn down before they replace their toothbrush, but the ideal time to replace these is actually every 3 months.
Item #8 House Slippers (6 months to 1 year)
Unless you’re hoping to get some kind of fungal infection, you should replace your house slippers every 6 months to 1 year, especially if you’re using those plush terrycloth ones. Until then, wash them regularly and make sure they’re completely dry before using them again.
Item #9 Fire Extinguisher (10 to 12 years)
Owning a fire extinguisher isn’t enough to ensure that your house is safe in case of fire. You also need to make sure that your fire extinguisher is working and up-to-date. Check it regularly for any signs of damage and have it serviced as soon as you notice any. Traditional fire extinguishers are expected to last around 12 years while disposable ones usually last around 10. Most fire extinguishers will have the expiration date stamped on either the body or the label so check that, too.
As a homeowner, keeping your home and the people in it safe should be a top priority. Knowing when to replace these items (and replacing them on time) can help save you from potential safety issues. Keep track of them and replace them when needed to ensure a safe and healthy environment in your home.