The Home Essential Everyone Forgets to Replace

Some of your most-used household items need replacing way more often than you think. But remembering to swap them out is not always easy. Here are four home essentials that always get overlooked, plus tips for when you should swap them out.

1. Your Cutting Boards

With deep grooves and knife marks, older cutting boards can be hard to keep clean. If wear and tear is visible, upgrade to a new set. Plastic is lightweight and easy to rinse in the dishwasher, and a wooden board is sturdy and long-lasting. To avoid cross-contamination, use one board for raw meat and fish, and one for fruits and veggies.

2. The Bed Pillows

Most know to replace the mattress every few years, but it’s just as important to change out your pillows. After one or two years, they lose structure and can hold excess dirt and oil. To extend the life of new pillows, slip on a protector when changing the sheets.

3. Your Spatula

If your most loved kitchen utensils have cracked, frayed edges, it’s time to replace them and cut down on the risk of food contamination. For heat resistance and flexibility, silicone utensils work well, while wooden and metal options are sturdier.

4. The Toilet Brush

Since it can be a bacteria trap, replace your toilet brush once a year and spray with disinfectant after each use to maximize shelf life. When swapping your brush, look for one with durable plastic bristles. Bonus if it comes in a tall, concealing brush holder that’s easy to stash away.

Want More? (Of course you do.)

Shop More Home Essentials