10 Household Items You Should’ve Replaced Yesterday

As a busy mom and wife, I know how easy it is to let the little things slide in the hustle and bustle of daily life. But have you ever stopped to think about how long you’ve had that sponge in the sink or the filter in your fridge?

It turns out, keeping track of these household items and replacing them regularly isn’t just about staying organized—it’s about keeping our homes safe and healthy for our families. Here are 10 household items you might not realize are overdue for a replacement.

Toothbrush

Here’s a little reminder that might just save your smile: it’s probably time to replace your toothbrush. Dr. Mark Burhenne, a dental expert I follow, really opened my eyes to how a worn-out toothbrush isn’t just ineffective—it actually can scratch your teeth and set the stage for all kinds of oral health issues.

Think cavities, gum disease, and who wants that, right? He recommends swapping out your toothbrush every one to three months, and I’ve found sticking to this simple rule has made a noticeable difference.

Spices

Let’s spice things up a bit—by checking our spice racks! You might not think spices expire, but even those robust flavors fade over time. If you’re someone who loves to cook, you might go through them quickly, but for the occasional chef, it’s worth checking those jars.

Spices generally hold their kick for about two to three years, while dried herbs might need refreshing even sooner.

Nonstick Pans

It’s time to talk about something that’s likely a staple in your kitchen: nonstick pans. While they’re super convenient, there’s growing concern about the chemicals they can release.

Moving to alternatives like ceramic, steel, or my personal favorite, cast iron, can be a healthier choice for both you and the planet. These materials can last a lifetime with the right care.

Exfoliating Mitts

If you’re like me, you’ve got a beauty routine that keeps your skin feeling fresh. Part of that routine? Exfoliating mitts. They’re fantastic for scrubbing away dead skin and boosting circulation.

But, they don’t last forever. Every few months, it’s good practice to replace them to avoid the buildup of bacteria and to make sure they’re still doing their job well.

Cutting Boards

Our cutting boards really go through the wringer, don’t they? Whether it’s a wooden board that sees the annual holiday roast or a plastic one that’s a daily workhorse, they all wear down eventually.

In my kitchen, I check my boards for grooves and any funky smells that tell me it’s time for them to go. A good wooden board can last years if you treat it right, but those plastic ones might need more frequent updates.

Medications

Take a moment to sift through your medicine cabinet and check the expiration dates. It’s easy to overlook those occasional-use items like antihistamines or antacids until the moment you really need them.

Making sure everything is up to date means you won’t be caught off guard by expired meds when you least expect it. A little checkup now can save you a headache later—literally!

Refrigerator Filters

We all love fresh, clean ice and water straight from the fridge, right? But here’s the thing: those refrigerator filters need changing every six months to keep things tasting right and safe from contaminants like chlorine and lead. Yes, shelling out around $60 for a filter might pinch a bit, but it’s a worthwhile investment in your health.

Be wary of cheaper, off-brand filters that might not meet safety standards. Sticking to certified filters ensures that every sip and crunch of ice is as pure as possible.

Water Filter Replacements

Keeping our water clean is a priority, especially when you think about all the glasses filled from that pitcher in the fridge. Replacing the water filter might not be top of mind with everything else we juggle, but it’s a must to avoid that stale taste and ensure our water is free from impurities.

I try to swap out our pitcher filter every three months—it’s on my kitchen calendar right next to the kids’ dentist appointments! It’s a quick fix for peace of mind, knowing each sip is as clean as can be.

Air Filters

Air filters don’t always get the attention they deserve, yet they’re crucial for more than just air quality—they keep our heating and cooling systems running smoothly. A good rule of thumb is to replace them every 30 to 90 days, depending on where you live and the type of filter.

For families dealing with allergies like ours, it’s a game changer. Swapping out a dirty filter not only freshens the air but also reduces all those sneezes and sniffles at home.

Plastic Food Storage Containers

Let’s talk about those plastic food containers we all rely on for meal prep and leftovers. Honestly, they don’t last forever. You might ignore those little scratches inside your containers, but they’re perfect spots for bacteria to hide and multiply, potentially messing with your family’s food safety. Time to toss any that look overused.

Upgrading to glass versions not only cuts down on those bacterial hideouts but also saves you from replacing them so often. Plus, they’re a breeze to clean!

Sponges

Your kitchen sponge does a lot, from cleaning dishes to wiping down counters, but it’s also a breeding ground for germs. Even the best dishwasher or microwave trick won’t get it totally germ-free. If it’s been a few weeks, it’s probably time to switch it out.

Sea sponges are a fantastic, healthy option. They naturally resist bacteria and mold, plus they last longer.