Common Household Items You Should Replace Regularly, But Probably Aren’t

Keeping a fresh and comfortable home isn’t just about cleaning—it’s also about knowing when to replace everyday items. Chances are you're well aware of these common household items you should be replacing more frequently than you are, but life takes over and they get pushed down the list. Many of us are guilty of holding onto items way past their prime. Some of these, however, can affect our health and comfort. So, here’s a look at some of the things in your house you're probably not replacing often enough and why it’s time to make a change.

Woman putting dishes into a dish rack.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

Toothbrush

You should swap out your toothbrush or toothbrush head every 3 months. Over time, bristles wear out and become less effective at cleaning your teeth. As they age, bacteria builds up and that's something you don't want accumulating in your mouth.

Pillows

Replace your pillows every 1-2 years. They lose their shape and support, and can accumulate dust mites and allergens that affect your sleep quality and health. Waking up with neck pain or allergies? It might be time for new pillows.

Sponges

Kitchen sponges should be replaced every 1-2 weeks. They’re a breeding ground for bacteria, even if you’re diligent about cleaning them. Microwaving or boiling sponges can help, but it’s best to replace them regularly to stay safe. Once it starts looking too scummy to get anything clean, throw it out and grab a new one.

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Air Filters

Change your air filters every 3 months. Dirty filters reduce the air quality and efficiency of your HVAC system. This increases the dust circulating in your home as well as energy bills. If you have pets or allergies, you might need to change them more often.

Shower Curtain Liner

Swap out your shower curtain liner every 6 months. Mold and mildew build up over time, and it’s easier to replace liners than to clean them most of the time.

Water Filters

Replace water filters as recommended by the manufacturer, usually every 2-6 months. They lose effectiveness and can start to harbor bacteria if left too long. If your water is tasting funky or smelling off, you're likley due for a filter replacement.

Bath Towels

Bath towels should be on a 1-2 year replacement schedule. Over time, they lose absorbency and can start to smell even after washing, due to bacteria and mold buildup. Keep them fresh by letting them dry completely between uses and washing them regularly.

Stack of kitchen towels.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

Kitchen Towels

Swap out kitchen towels every 1-2 years as well, or when they become threadbare and stained. They can harbor bacteria and lose their effectiveness in drying dishes and hands.

Mattress

Mattresses aren't a low-cost swap but considering how much time is spent on them, they're an important item to think about when it comes to replacement timeframes. Normally, a mattress will last about 7-10 years. After that, it loses support and comfort over time, which can affect your sleep quality and lead to aches and pains. Investing in a new mattress can significantly improve your sleep and overall health.

Smoke Detector Batteries

Change smoke detector batteries at least once a year. This is an item you don't want to leave to chance. Don't wait for the batteries to die and start beeping, be proactive about changing them out annually. A good rule of thumb is to change them when you change your clocks for daylight saving time.

Refrigerator Water Line

The water line to the refrigerator is something most people never think of replacing but it's one that should also get some attention about every 5 years. Mineral deposits and bacteria can build up over time. This affects the taste and safety of your water and ice.

Scratched non-stick cookware.Photo byPhoto credit: Shutterstock.

Non-Stick Cookware

Proactively swap out non-stick pans every 3-5 years or at the very first sign of degradation. Over time, the coating can wear down, potentially releasing harmful chemicals into your food. Scratched or peeling pans should be replaced immediately.

Dish Drying Rack

Replace your dish drying rack every 1-2 years. These racks can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew, especially in hard-to-clean areas. If you use a drying mat instead of a dish rack, it should be thrown in the washer weekly.

This article first appeared on Running to the Kitchen.