13 Everyday Products You’re Using Far Too Long

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Most of us don’t think about replacing everyday essentials regularly. The fancy creams and magical elixirs you believe keep you wrinkle-free could be virtually useless (and sometimes more dangerous) if used past their expiration dates. Everything in your home has a life clock, from kitchen sponges to toothbrushes.

It is not only about cleanliness—knowing when to replace these items ensures safety. As we use many common household items, they accumulate bacteria and wear out over time, rendering them less effective and unsanitary to keep using. By keeping an eye on their replacement schedules, you can be sure that your home will continue to be a safe and healthful place.

Toothbrush

Toothbrushes should be replaced every three or four months. When their bristles become frayed, they can no longer effectively clean teeth and gums. Even worse, they are a vehicle for pathogens and can increase the potential for oral infections.

Pillow

New pillows should be purchased at least every one to two years so that your pillow’s neck support is as effective and hygienic. Dusting mites that create allergies infest the pillow. Better yet, start incorporating them in daily pillowcase washing, keeping them fresh and decreasing allergen build-up.

Mattress

On average, mattresses are used for seven to ten years before replacement. Eventually, they wear out and fail to provide the proper support demanded from their mattress bases, rest, and sleep. Having your mattress a quarter turn now and then could help it wear more evenly and last longer.

Air Filters

To keep the indoor air clean, you should change Air filters every three months. The filters become clogged with time and inhibit airflow, meaning that the heat does not escape from your house, and you will pay more energy bills.

Towel

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It helps to replace bath towels every two years, as they can start losing their absorbency and becoming unhygienic. Washing and reusing accumulate soap deposits and softeners. Some bacteria grow on towels, and warm water can kill them. To reduce the risk of catching germs from your towel, wash them in hot periods.

Water Filter

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Change water filters every two to six months, as per the manufacturer’s guidance. Old filters can stop working, eventually contaminating the water with bacteria and almost counteracting the healthy benefits you were getting from it in the first place. Refer to product guidelines for best practices.

Kitchen Sponge

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Kitchen sponges are another germ-attractant and should be changed every two weeks. They are vulnerable to germ build-up due to their frequent use in cleaning jobs. Rinse them and let them dry completely if you wish to keep using them.

Razor Blade

It would be best if you switched out your razor blades every five to seven shaves to get a nice, clean shave that doesn’t irritate your skin. Blades that are not sharp enough are the primary reasons blades can become twisted, cut, and pull hair rather than cut through cleanly. Place in a dry location to avoid rusting and bacteria collection.

Makeup

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Get new makeup products, especially liquid and cream products, every now and then. For instance, foundations and mascaras only need to be saved for six months. Those old lipsticks are not good for anyone, leading to skin infections and irritation due to bacterial presence.

Loofah

Loofahs should be changed approximately every 3-4 weeks. With 3D walls and much grout-filled space, these areas can also be where dead skin becomes trapped, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and mold. To keep them clean, ensure you rinse them well and let them air dry fully before the next use.

Contact Lens Case

Change your contact lens case every three months. Over time, bacteria can build up in these cases, resulting in an eye infection. To reduce the chances of contamination, always wipe your case with a lens solution instead of water.

Smoke Alarm

Replace the batteries in smoke alarms once a year and the units themselves every ten years. A working smoke alarm is essential for home safety, as it gives an early warning in case of fire. We check them regularly so that they work when we want them to.

Running Shoes

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You should replace your runners every 300-500 miles. Worn-out shoes can result in less cushioning and support, which may produce pain or injury. Monitor mileage and sole wear to determine when your sneakers need replacing.