No matter how much you tidy up, homes are hotspots for germs, bacteria, and even viruses. With around 9,000 types of germs hanging out in the average household, particularly in moisture-prone areas like the kitchen and bathroom, it’s essential to know when to replace common household items to maintain cleanliness and safety.
Your kitchen sponge is likely dirtier than a toilet seat, and according to a German study, even after microwaving or boiling, it can still harbour dangerous bacteria. Toothbrushes, often covered in bacteria, saliva, and oral debris, need replacing regularly, too.
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Consumers in the US were surveyed about their habits regarding swapping out bacteria-laden items like kitchen sponges and toothbrushes. Turns out, an alarming number of people aren’t replacing these items often enough, potentially putting their health at risk.
According to the survey, 8 out of 10 Americans don’t replace kitchen sponges weekly as recommended. More than half wait a month or more (59%) to replace kitchen sponges. 12% of Americans can’t recall the last time they replaced their toothbrush, and 21% wait six months or more.
When you avoid replacing items, especially those that are frequently in use, you run the risk of affecting your health. Here’s a room-by-room guide for when to replace common household items to keep your home germ-free:
Kitchen and pantry
- Kitchen Sponge: Replace weekly.
- Water Filters: Every two months.
- Spices: Ground spices every six months, whole spices every three to five years.
- Cookware: Every five years.
Bathroom and medicine cabinet
- Toothbrush: Every 2–3 months.
- Toilet Brush: Every six months.
- Hand Towels and Towels: Every two years.
- Shower Liners: Once or twice a year.
- Bath Toys: Clean weekly.
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Bedroom and cupboard
- Sheets: Every two years.
- Mattress: Every 10 years.
- Pillows: Every 1–2 years.
- Bras and sports bras: Every year.
- Running shoes: Every 500-700 km.
Living room and garage
- Cleaning Rags: Every month.
- Air Filter: Every month.
- Yoga Mat: Every year.
- Vacuum Bag: Every six months.
- Smoke Detector: Every 10 years.
By replacing these items regularly, you can maintain a cleaner and safer living environment for you and your family.
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