Whoa! These Everyday Items Have Secret Expiration Dates You NEVER Knew About!
You won’t believe how many household items are secretly ticking time bombs! Find out what expiration dates you need to watch out for! 🚨 #News #HouseholdHints #ExpirationDares
Wait, THIS Can Expire?!
EDINA, MN – We all know food has expiration dates. But did you know many everyday items also go bad over time? It’s not just milk and eggs. Ignoring these dates can be risky. Here’s what you need to know.
Everyday Items with Hidden Expiration Dates You Never Knew About
Bar Soap: Not Always Squeaky Clean
Bar soap can dry out and crack after about three years. If it looks dried out, it’s time to replace it.
Batteries: Power Fades
Batteries have expiration dates. Over time, they corrode and the lithium breaks down. They won’t be dangerous, but they’ll lose their effectiveness. Check those dates before stocking up.
Bug Spray: Limited Lifespan
Bug spray lasts about three years. After that, it loses effectiveness. If you can’t remember when you bought it, it’s safer to get a new bottle.
Car Seats: Not Forever Safe
Car seats are lifesavers for kids. But they come with expiration dates! Check the bottom of the seat for the date. Brands like Graco and Britax usually expire after six to ten years. Stay safe and check those dates!
Helmets: Safety First
Helmets protect your head, but they wear out too. Sweat and sun damage them. Serious bikers should replace helmets every two years, casual riders every four years.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Short Shelf Life
Hydrogen peroxide is only good for about three years unopened. Once opened, it loses effectiveness after six months. If it doesn’t fizz when poured, it’s time to get a new bottle.
Loofahs: Bacterial Breeding Grounds
Loofahs should be replaced often. Natural loofahs every three to four weeks, and plastic ones every two months. They can harbor bacteria from dead skin cells and shower dampness.
Mascara: Bacteria Alert
Mascara should be tossed three months after opening. It can get contaminated with bacteria, risking infection. If it dries out sooner, throw it away and don’t try to moisten it with water or saliva.
Moisturizer: Not Forever Fresh
Facial lotion should be replaced after two years. Jars might need replacing sooner due to bacteria from your fingers. Replace after six months to avoid spreading germs.
Motor Oil: Not Just a Sale Stock-Up
Buying motor oil on sale is smart, but remember it expires after five years. After that, the oil can separate and change consistency. This could compromise its performance. Check your oil stockpile!
Paint: Not Eternal
Old paint cans in your garage? They have a shelf life. Opened paint lasts two to four years. Unopened, oil-based paint can last 15 years, and latex paint around ten years. Toss any paint that’s moldy or dried out.
Running Shoes: Watch the Miles
Running shoes wear out after 300 to 600 miles. The cushioning degrades, increasing injury risk. Pay attention to how they feel and replace them as needed.
Sunglasses: UV Protection Fades
Your sunglasses protect your eyes, but they don’t last forever. Over time, they become less effective at blocking harmful UV rays due to scratches and wear. Consider replacing them periodically.
Sunscreen: Time to Toss?
Think your sunscreen lasts forever? Think again. Sunscreen generally remains effective for only three years. After that, it loses its potency. Write the purchase date on the bottle and toss it after three years. Some bottles even come with an expiration date.
Tea Bags: Freshness Matters
Love tea? Tea bags lose their quality after about two years. They won’t spoil, but they won’t be as tasty. Store them in the freezer to keep them fresh longer.
Toothpaste: Use It Up
Toothpaste doesn’t last forever. Most are good for only two years. Use older tubes for cleaning projects like removing scuffs or cleaning your iron.
Check Your Stuff!
These items are part of everyday life, and knowing when they expire can keep you safe and ensure they work as intended. Check your stuff and stay on top of these expiration dates!
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