Everyday Items Have Use-By Dates? 10 Things You MUST Throw Away Right Now

A recent study revealed that the value of food waste due to expiration dates is approximately 700 billion KRW ($525 million) annually. It also found that a significant amount of still edible food is discarded because it merely passed its expiration date. However, did you know that everyday items also have a “use-by date,” just like food has an expiration date? It is beneficial to adhere to these periods strictly, just like with food. Let’s look at some products, from power strips to pillows and mosquito repellents, that we didn’t know had use-by dates.

Power Strip

We often use power strips for an extended period without giving much thought. Since multiple plugs are connected, adhering to their use-by date is good. The use-by date for power strips is 1-2 years. If used for long, they become susceptible to the surrounding environment, poor contact, and overcurrent, leading to the risk of fire and explosion. It’s important to ensure dust and foreign substances don’t accumulate, and extra caution is needed during the dusty and dry spring season.

Sneakers

Did you know everyone’s favorite fashion item, sneakers, has a use-by date? The use-by date for sneakers worn casually is one year. Although many people wear sneakers for a long time due to their recently improved quality, it is best not to exceed five years as the cushioning function of sneakers can weaken. Wearing sneakers for too long can put a strain on your knees and ankles.

Pillow

Also, pillows, which enhance sleep quality, have a use-by date. Using the pillows, we sleep on every night for two years minimum and three years maximum is recommended. Using them for more than three years can deform the shape of the pillow, disrupting sleep and causing neck pain. Furthermore, pillows can get damp from the sweat we shed, providing a suitable environment for various microbes such as dust mites and mold to thrive, so they need to be replaced.

Pacifier

Babies instinctively have the desire to suck on something. As the desire to suck something is strong in babies under six months old, many parents let them use pacifiers. Pacifiers that babies put in their mouths should be used for two to five weeks. Continual use of the same pacifier can negatively affect not only the oral condition but also the respiratory system.

Buggy Seat

Buggy seats are a must for families with children. They prevent risks not only from accidents but also from abrasion from seat belts. The use-by date for buggy seats is relatively long as eight years. However, a car seat’s plastic body and seat belts can deform and function incorrectly. So, it’s best to opt to buy new car seats rather than using second-hand ones.

Mosquito Repellent

As the temperature rises, the number of people looking for mosquito repellent increases due to the growing activity of mosquitoes and other pests. The mosquito repellent we use in summer must also be replaced every two years. This is because most of the mosquito-repelling ingredients evaporate after two years. Old mosquito repellent is not better than plain water, so it’s best to purchase a new one to be effective.

Towel

The towel is one of the most frequently used items daily. The lifespan of a towel, which we use daily to wipe our face, hands, feet, and other body parts, is two years. Even with frequent laundry, bacteria can increase, so replacing it with a new one is a good idea. Also, using it too long can damage the fabric and irritate the skin.

Fire Extinguisher

When there’s a fire, anyone can easily put out the fire with a fire extinguisher and minimize the damage. Therefore, it’s always good to keep a fire extinguisher at home. The lifespan of a fire extinguisher is ten years. Since you never know when you’ll need to use it, it’s good to check the condition of a fire extinguisher often. The lifespan of a fire extinguisher can be extended to three years once it passes the test from the Korea Fire Institute.

Shower Ball

A shower ball stored in a damp bathroom is a breeding ground for bacteria. Even after a thorough wash, dead skin cells, which serve as a good nutrient source for bacteria, can remain on it, acting as a catalyst for bacterial growth. Also, old shower balls have poor washing capabilities, so replacing them every six months is better.

Rubber Gloves

Rubber gloves are for protecting our hands when washing dishes or cleaning. Most people replace rubber gloves when they are torn or have holes. However, rubber gloves are also prone to increased bacterial growth due to the damp environment, so it’s good to replace them regularly every month. After using rubber gloves, wiping off any dirt or oil on the surface and shaking off the moisture is essential.

By. Hye In Oh