Not just food: 10 household items that also have an expiration date

When it comes to food, many of us are very precise: if the expiry date indicated on the package is exceeded by just one day, the product ends up in the garbage. Indeed, we know how important it is for our health to respect the basic rules and ensuring the food we eat is stored properly.

But did you know that some non-food household items also have an expiration date? Yes: cleaning products or clothing and also electrical products and products for children also expire. Sometimes we use them for months or years, unaware of the need to replace them. Let's find out about 10 of these together:

1. Toothbrushes

Toothbrushes are objects that require the maximum of hygiene. In fact, it is easy for dirt to accumulate inside the bristles, despite frequent rinsing. For this reason, it is advisable to replace them frequently: dentists advise once every month and after any period you have not been feeling well.

In all cases, the toothbrush must be replaced when the bristles are worn and frayed.

2. Hairbrushes

Hairbrushes should be cleaned from hair each time they are used. We also recommend cleaning the brushes once a week. But sometimes hairbrushes need to be replaced - and not just when they break. It is recommended to change a hairbrush every year (and if the bristles are natural materials, even more frequently).

3. Baby pacifiers

Whether they are made from latex or silicone, baby pacifiers should be replaced approximately every two months. However, the replacement of a latex pacifiers is recommended as soon as you see that the two sides begin to stick together. Silicone pacifiers should be replaced when you begin to see bite marks or cracks.

4. Bras

A bra should be replaced when it begins to feel uncomfortable: if it loses its elasticity or does not provide proper suppor or if it has deformed itself due to washing. Replacement is usually necessary after two years, but a lot depends on the quality of the material the bra is made from.

5. Pillows

The pillows we use are very important both to ensure our well-being and to allow us to sleep better. To prevent pillows from becoming a fertile breeding-ground for mites (or if their shape deforms), they should be replaced on a regular basis. The recommendation is to replace them every two or three years, but remember to wash them regularly too.

6. Disinfectants

Disinfectants have an expiration date: three months after opening, they lose their effectiveness and their continued use is not recommended. It is best to throw expired disinfectants away and replace them with new one.

7. Insecticide sprays

Like disinfectants, the same is true for insecticide sprays: these products lose their effectiveness over time. Unlike disinfectants, however, insect sprays last longer and can be used for about two years.

8. Kitchen sponges

A kitchen sponges, due to humidity, is the dirtiest item in the kitchen. To keep it free from germs, it should be replaced every two weeks (or it can be boiled to disinfect it).

9. Power strips

Power outlets do not actually have an expiration date; however, it is always good to check them and make sure they are replaced at least once every two years - especially if they are used a lot. In fact, if they show signs of wear, they could easily short-circuit and cause a fire.

10. Fire extinguishers

Fire extinguishers must be maintained and refilled every two years; and they need to be replaced after 20-25 years. However, always check the extinguisher's overall condition: if it is damaged, it must be replaced immediately.

Did you know that these items have an expiration date? Best to do a check asap!