With food, many of us are rigorous: We throw it away as soon as the best before date is exceeded by one day – regardless of whether the food is actually spoiled or not. On the other hand, most of our household items are in daily use for months and years. But from when they should be exchanged for the benefit of their own health and safety, only a few know. At least for the following 10 things you can find a recommendation here, when their time has expired.
Pillows
You should exchange your pillow about every two to three years. For one thing, it can become a breeding ground for dust mites the longer you use it. Second, because it loses shape over time, which can lead to tension and neck pain.
Power strip
Socket strips, of course, can not be “bad” in the true sense. However, you should pay attention to how strong they are with you in use, after all, they are the household item, most likely a fire can be caused by short circuit. Every two years, therefore, a stricter material testing is announced.
Bra
As soon as your bra becomes uncomfortable in any way – because it loses its elasticity, has become deformed by washing or no longer offers any support – you can dispose of it without a guilty conscience. In general, this should be the case after about two years.
Hairbrush
Hairbrushes should be cleaned at least once a week. Ideally, remove your combed hair with your hand immediately after brushing. After one year, the brush should be completely replaced; Brushing with natural bristles even a little earlier.
Disinfectant
Disinfectants can be used for three months, after which they lose their effectiveness.
Insect spray
Like disinfectants, insect sprays, such as mosquitoes, become ineffective over time – but in this case only after about two years.
Fire extinguishers
Fire extinguishers should be disposed of professionally after 20 to 25 years. Of course, it is important to wait for it every two years and possibly refill it. If the device shows obvious damage, it must of course be replaced immediately.
Pacifier
Both latex and silicone pacifiers can stay in use for one to two months. However, latex pacifiers should be replaced at the latest when they begin to stick. Also silicone pacifier should be changed immediately if bite marks or cracks. In addition, it may be advisable to give your child a new pacifier even after an illness.
Kitchen sponge
In fact, the kitchen sponge is the unhealthiest place in your kitchen as bacteria and fungi feel comfortable in their humid environment. Therefore, change the kitchen sponge every other week or at least boil it with hot water so that the bacteria die off and you can wash your dishes again without disgust.
Toothbrush
As already indicated, bacteria are literally blooming with moisture and heat. If they find many surfaces to hide, anyway. Such conditions can also be found on your toothbrush, which is why you should buy a new one at least every three months. Dentists even recommend a monthly change. Even after illness it is advisable to dispose of the old, contaminated toothbrush.
But at the very latest, when the bristles are worn and frayed, it’s time for a new brush.
Even if household items, strictly speaking, have no expiration date, it is good to know when they should gradually be replaced. Ultimately, however, your intuition and the degree of wear will tell you the best, from when replacement must be worried.
