Hello World! Welcome Friends! Some things do not last forever. Sometimes, out with the old and in with the new is best. Some things that need replacing are more evident than others. People often keep belongings well past their best-by date. Knowing when to replace household items is critical for preventing odors and other issues. There are at least ten household items people need to consider replacing now.
Ten Household Items That Need a Replacement Regularly
Although some purchases can last decades, holding on to items too long can lead to odors, health issues, and unsightliness. You will know exactly when to toss and replace with this guide by Easy Donation Pickup.
Kitchen Sponges
A sturdy sponge is a dishwasher’s best friend. The older you get, the more you appreciate a new one. Some people let these sponges hang around too long, gathering odors and germs. Ideally, experts recommend replacing kitchen sponges every 2 to 8 weeks.
Sponges can stay sanitized each week by wetting and microwaving them for a few minutes. The microwave will heat the sponge enough to kill all the germs and prevent them from embedding into dishes. Remove those old sponges and buy new ones to keep dishes clean and sparkling.
Herbs and Spices
Look in your pantries. It is easy to see that many people do not frequently replace their old spices. Although whole spices can stay fresh for up to four years, dried herbs must be replaced once a year because they lose their potency and can sometimes become rancid, depending on the oil content. Cooks who want their dishes to taste fresh must use fresh, dried herbs for the best results. Look at the spice cabinet and replace all those old spices that have lost their flavor and aroma.
Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes do not last that long. Not only do they become worn after a few months, but they also gather a lot of bacteria and germs. Continuing to brush with a germy toothbrush can lead to impacts on your oral health.
People need to replace their toothbrushes every three months. It is also critical to replace them after illnesses or cold sores. Replace an old toothbrush any time it seems worn or damaged in any way.
Water Filters
Water filters are another one of those things that need frequent replacement. Replacing water filters every three to six months ensures the water stays pure and tastes great. Infrequent water filter changes lead to impurities going through the filter and into the water. Pay attention to the manufacturer’s recommendations for replacement frequency.
Vitamins and Medication
All vitamins and medications, including over-the-counter and prescription, have an expiration date. Keep checking the expiration dates, especially if you only take vitamins and minerals occasionally. Some vitamins and medications lose their effectiveness with time. Others can become toxic and dangerous to the body. When in doubt, toss them out for your safety and your family.
Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are a must in any home. Homes need one on every floor, where they are easy to access. Fire extinguishers are especially critical in the kitchen, where fires can break out easily. Check the pressure gauge at least once a month. Fire extinguishers last between 10 to 12 years. Because they are rarely used, many people forget they need regular inspections and replacements. You need a new one or recharge if the needle is not in the green zone.
Contact Lens Cases
Most people think they can continue using their contact lens cases for years, and many do not even clean them. Contact wearers should replace their contact cases every three months for the best results. Replacing the case every three months will keep the contact lenses sanitary and prevent eye infections.
Toilet Brushes
Most people would be embarrassed to admit the age of their toilet brush. For some reason, this bathroom tool gets overlooked, and we keep it for months without a replacement. Purchase a new toilet brush every two to four months. You may need to replace it sooner if the brush is soiled or frayed. Swish the brush in bleached water once a week to keep germs and odors at bay.
Pillows
The pillow people sleep on every night can become caked with dirt, grime, skin cells, and even drool over time. Most experts recommend replacing a pillow every two years or sooner if it becomes overly soiled or out of shape. Wash bed pillows regularly, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Makeup
People also need to make sure they replace their makeup regularly. To avoid eye infections, things like eyeshadow and mascara must be replaced every three months. Never share makeup with anyone else, even those in the same household.
Consider Donating
Most people have too much clutter in their homes, and some become packrats, keeping everything they come across for a rainy day. Knowing when to let something go or replace it is critical because it is well past its prime. The rule of thumb is to donate it to charity if you have not used it in a year. One man’s garbage is another’s treasure. Someone could get a lot of use out of that item you never even touch.
Some charities will pick up unwanted items for donations. These charities will pick up valuable items to sell to help others. Before tossing something in the trash, consider its usability and condition. Donating is far better than filling landfills necessarily.
Analyze Common Household Products and Goods
Many people mistakenly believe expiration dates and recommended replacement dates are non-essential, but this is far from the truth. Some products can be used longer than experts say, but there is always a risk. When in doubt, get rid of the old item and replace it with a new one. Replacing certain things like sponges, toothbrushes, and makeup is especially critical because these can all harbor bacteria.
Get rid of that old, frayed toothbrush, and do not let an old toilet brush hang around for months. Now is an excellent time to review your belongings and check the expiration dates. Examine everyday things like those listed above, and replace anything that no longer works or is dangerous.
Click the links below for any posts you have missed:
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Empowering the Next Generation: How Kids’ Debit Cards Can Make a Difference
Top Tips How to Choose the Perfect Pet Comforter
From Drab to Fab: How to Transform Your Kitchen
How to Achieve Comfort and Elegance in Your Living Spaces
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Toodles,
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