Household Items You Didn’t Realize Had Expiration Dates

For a lot of things in your house, checking the expiration date is second nature. But most of items that you know have expiration dates are in the fridge.

Getty Images

Here's a list of items you didn't realize were on a timer:

Pillows, 2-3 years. Pillows become a home for dust mites and cause neck pain due to loss of shape.
Slippers, 6 months. Slippers spread fungal infections, they should be washed as often as possible.
Sponge, 2 weeks. Sponges start to breed fungus and mold.
Towel, 1-3 years. Constant washing is not enough to stop the bacteria growth happening on wet towels.
Toothbrush, 3 months. Toothbrushes should be replaced when the bristles become worn down or after you've had a cold or the flu.
Hydrogen peroxide, 2 months. Hydrogen peroxide will turn to water in two months after opening the bottle.
Hairbrush, 1 year. Hairbrushes should be cleaned once a week and replaced once a year.
Perfume, 1-3 years. Perfumes with essential oils only last three years when closed and two when opened.
Pacifier, 2-5 weeks. Latex breaks easily and the cracks can breed germs.
Child car seats, 6-10 years. The plastic and foam deteriorate and no longer protect the child.
Bra, 1-2 years. Toss your bra as soon as it loses its shape, elasticity, gets too big or small, or becomes uncomfortable.
Running shoes, 1 year. Sneakers start to lose their cushioning after 250-300 miles.
Spices, 1-3 years. Spices lose taste and smell over time. Ground spices should be tossed after six months.
Flour, 6-12 months. Flour kept in your freezer will last longer.
Fire extinguishers, 15 years. Fire extinguishers with damage should be serviced immediately.
Power strips, 1-2 years. Power strips will go bad once it has reached its capacity.
Disinfectants, 3 months. Disinfectants lose their effectiveness after three months.
Mosquito repellents, 2 years. Repellents are no longer useful against mosquitos after two years.