Many household staples can remain effective well beyond their shelf life. Still, it is essential to replace them regularly to prevent infections and other health issues. When you use old household items for too long, it opens the possibility of skin issues, respiratory problems, and diseases. In fact, certain items, such as plastic food containers and nonstick cookware, can be hazardous when used over an extended period. It could result in exposure to certain chemicals, which can affect your hormones and immune system.
Let’s take a look at some everyday household items that need to be replaced more often than you think.
Pillows
Whether it’s bed pillows or decorative ones on couches, pillows can accumulate a significant amount of bacteria and dead skin cells over time. This can lead to breakouts and even cause or aggravate allergies.
Ideally, pillows should be replaced once every one to two years. You can use a hypoallergenic pillow cover to protect it from bed bugs, dust mites, and stains. Throwing your pillow into the washing machine dryer for about 10 minutes on high heat can help manage dust mites and disinfect. Do this every couple of months until it’s time to discard it. If your pillows are stuffed with synthetic polyester, they should be replaced annually.
Bath Sponges and Loofahs
Loofahs and bath sponges harbor a significant amount of bacteria and mildew in their small nooks and crannies, particularly when stored in a damp shower. Using a dirty loofah can trigger skin infections, acne, allergies, and asthma. Moreover, if you have an open wound, a dirty sponge or loofah can cause infection because bacteria can easily enter the skin.
That’s why many dermatologists recommend using a washcloth that can be washed regularly, as it provides a cleaner and safer option. However, if you prefer bath sponges or loofahs, be sure to replace them regularly.
Nonstick Pans
If you start to notice the coating chipping off a nonstick pan, it’s time to discard it. Most nonstick pans contain layers of PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” which are linked to long-term health issues. When the coating is chipped, you’re more likely to ingest these chemicals.
PFAS can cause damage to the immune system and liver, and are also associated with congenital disabilities, low birth weight, and delayed development. Therefore, replacing your nonstick pans is something that should be taken very seriously!
Mattress
Over time, mattresses accumulate a significant amount of bacteria, dust mites, dead skin cells, and fungus, which can be hazardous to your health, particularly for individuals with asthma or skin allergies.
The bacteria and dead skin cells that accumulate on the mattress can attract tiny bugs and dust mites, which leave droppings on the mattress, causing skin irritation, dermatitis, hives, and even exacerbating asthma.
If you use a hypoallergenic mattress protector or vacuum the mattress regularly, you can replace it approximately every seven years. Otherwise, a mattress should be replaced once every five years. If you experience skin irritation or worsening asthma symptoms, it should be replaced immediately!
Plastic Containers
Some plastic containers contain substances like BPAS that can increase the risk of certain cancers and affect hormone health. This is why replacing them every six months is very important. If you notice scratches on your favorite Tupperware, replace it immediately, as these gashes can allow bacteria to grow and reside in it. Switch to glass containers and ditch the plastic whenever possible!
Kitchen Sponges
Much like bath sponges and loofahs, kitchen sponges can harbor a significant amount of bacteria. In fact, a study found that 362 different species of bacteria live in a used kitchen sponge, indicating that certain areas within a kitchen sponge have a concentration of bacteria as high as that found in a toilet.
Replace kitchen sponges every two weeks or sooner if you notice signs of mildew or mold. Sanitize it every other day to minimize the spread of bacteria.
Cutting Boards
Since many cutting boards have deep grooves, cleaning them out perfectly is difficult. These grooves can serve as a breeding ground for mold, viruses, and bacteria, potentially leading to food contamination.
A well-maintained cutting board can last for a year, and high-quality wooden ones can last for up to five years. But if your cutting board has grooves in it, make sure to replace it frequently. You can ensure that your cutting board remains in good condition by washing it in hot, soapy water and sanitizing it with a bleach solution once a month.
Bottom Line
When the durability of something starts to wear down, bleaching or cleaning it can only help it survive for a while; ultimately, it will need to be replaced. You can perform the good old smell test to check if something is still usable, but remember that a fresh scent does not always mean the item is free from harmful bacteria.
Most common household items we use need to be replaced frequently, not just for aesthetic or superficial reasons, but for the safety and well-being of everyone in the household. When the importance of this is ignored, it can sneak up on you and your health and cause many irreversible complications down the line.
