What Things Should Be Replaced More Often Than We Think

At home, we are surrounded by numerous objects that serve us for years or even decades, moving from one generation to the other. However, it’s worth remembering that almost all things have an expiration date that shouldn’t be ignored.

5-Minute Crafts is telling you what household items ought to be replaced more often than we normally assume.

Nonstick pans

About 10 years ago, the service life of nonstick pans was 2-3 years. Today, technology has let them stay in good shape for longer, from 5 to 7 years. After this period of time, the pan should be replaced.

Plastic cutting boards

With all the obvious advantages (low costs and simple care), the service life of plastic cutting boards is shorter than the lifespan of wooden boards, for example. They should be replaced every 1-5 years.

Yoga mat

A yoga mat should necessarily be replaced once it falls into disrepair. After all, exercising on an old, worn-out mat can affect your body as well. Depending on the intensity of the activity, the mat should be changed every 6-12 months.

Makeup brushes

If used actively, it’s a good idea to buy new brushes and replace old ones every 3 months. Apart from that, it’s important not to forget to wash the brushes at least once a week — the ones you use to apply makeup foundation, concealer, and powder with. And the ones that you use for eyes or the ones that are used with different colors should be washed after each use.

Sewing needle

The sewing machine needle should be replaced after every 8 hours of sewing. Things are a bit different with a “hand” needle — it all depends on the thickness and type of material you usually work with. On average, it should be replaced after 10 hours of sewing. But if this much time hasn’t passed yet and your needle has already started to scratch the fabric or produce a metallic smell, it means it needs replacing.

Pumice stone

Pumice stones should be replaced every month. That’s why, when buying one, it’s better to opt for smaller ones and not to overpay for the amount of material that you’ll unlikely be able to use up within a month.

Litter box

A plastic litter box should be replaced every year on the condition that it is meant for one cat. Depending on how often you clean it, you may need to replace it sooner, as urine tends to degrade the plastic over time, making the bad smell much harder to get rid of.

Insoles

The standard service life of insoles is 6 months. However, everything depends on how often you use them. For example, if you are an avid jogger, then you’ll have to replace your insoles a bit more often, like every 3-4 months.

Frames for glasses

If used correctly, the frames of your glasses will serve you for 1 to 3 years. After this period, it will be better to replace them. You can do it earlier if you notice some defects or issues with the lenses.

Toilet seat

While the toilet bowl itself can serve you for 15 years, things are a bit different when it comes to the toilet seat. It requires replacement 5-7 years after use. It’s after this time that it starts to get cracks and stains that are difficult to clean off.