Start the New Year With Replacing These 4 Items

Remember to replace your toothbrush when it's too worn or frayed.

Out with the old and in with the new. Are you still holding onto toothbrushes and old floppy pillows? These and other daily essentials are items that need to be replaced on a regular basis. So if you can't remember the last time you bought a new toothbrush, the new year is a good time to replace it. Check out these four everyday items, and keep your eyes open for other things you use frequently that may fall into this category!

Everyday Items to Replace Regularly

Toothbrush

For optimal dental health, your toothbrush should be replaced every 3 to 4 months. The American Dental Association suggests replacing it as soon as the bristles start to fray. This applies both to manual toothbrushes and electric toothbrush heads.

Contact lenses and cases

This may not be relevant for everyone, but if you wear lenses, you should replace your contact lens case every 3 months, or sooner if it has cracks, as these cracks can harbor bacteria. To take care of your case, when you are using your lenses, rinse the case with fresh lens solutions, shake out excess liquid and the leave the case to dry. And do not keep contact lenses longer than prescribed by your eye care professional.

Sunscreen

Planning on a winter getaway to somewhere warm and tropical? Before you throw your sunscreen from the summer into your suitcase, check the expiration date. If there is no date, then throw it out! Expired sunscreen may not be effective and expose you to harmful UVA and UVB rays which can lead to cancer.

Pillows

Although there are no hard and fast rules about pillows, most pillows should be replaced within 2 years. Pillows are best kept encased in a zippered cover to help protect against dust mites and washing may help as well, but check the label regarding care instructions. If your pillow can be folded, it is probably time to get a new one. Look for one that provides support for the type of sleeper you are.

Can you think of any other items that may need to be replaced?