We are careful about eating the right foods to prevent us from becoming sick, yet we neglect to consider that the household objects we use daily may become breeding grounds for germs. Unbeknownst to many, several regular household items actually do come with an expiration date.
Sponge:
We use our kitchen sponges almost everyday. It touches dirty plates, cups and possibly picks up food scraps and liquids. Even though you rinse the sponge after, the bacteria is not washed away or sterilised. Hence, kitchen sponges are a reservoir of bacteria and germs. Yet, we only dispose of our kitchen sponges when it starts to fall apart. In fact, if you use your sponge everyday, it is advisable to change it every 2 weeks.
Toothbrushes:
Most of us change our toothbrushes only after the bristles are frayed. However, many dental professionals recommend changing out your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months as germs can hide in toothbrush bristles. Additionally, studies show that after your toothbrush is worn out or frayed, it loses its effectiveness. A new toothbrush can remove more plaque to keep your teeth clean and healthy.
However, it may not be cost effective to change your toothbrush every 3 months. It would be more economical to invest in a electrical toothbrush, and merely switch out the brush head every 3 months.
A good quality toothbrush can cost an average of $9.30. For 5 years, you would have to purchase a new toothbrush at least 20 times, amounting to $186.
In comparison, an investment in an IUIGA Pro Clean Sonic Electric Toothbrush costs $79.90. In 5 years, a replacement brush of $4.96 will cost you a total of $99.20.
source: IUIGA’s Pro Clean Sonic Electric Toothbrush
Brushes:
The first sign you need a new brush is when the bristles start to separate. A dirty hair brush may also become a breeding ground for dust, dust mites, bacteria, and yeast. The best way to maintain the efficacy of your brush is to remove the hair from it after each use and give it a thorough cleaning once a week. However, it is recommended to change your brush every year to prevent the pile up of bacteria.
Towels:
With its water absorbent properties, our bath towels are naturally prone to the growth of mould and fungus. If you wash your towels often, they can usually last for 1 to 2 years. However, even washing your bath towels in hot water does not fully eradicate the germs. Be sure to replace your bath towels every 2 years.
Pillows:
We should replace our pillows every 1-2 years. This prevents a build up of dead skin cells, body oil and dust mites, which may cause allergies. Additionally, old pillows become misshapen and deformed, causing discomfort on your neck and back.
Loofahs
We often use a loofah to exfoliate our skin to keep it supple and fresh. But what if we told you the very thing you thought was giving you clean, silky skin was actually a breeding ground for bacteria? Loofahs aren’t the skin lifesavers they appear to be. Dead skin cells get tangled in the nooks and crannies of the loofah after you use it to scrub your skin. Additionally, when we leave our loofahs in the shower, the moist environment encourages bacteria to grow.
Replacing it frequently, ideally every three to four weeks. However, change your loofah immediately if the loofah starts to develop a musty smell, or if you notice spots of mould growing on it.
Don’t forget to regularly keep track of your household items, and make sure they do not develop into a cesspool of germs!