9 Things in Your Home to Replace ASAP for a Safer Space, According to Experts

Water Filters

Water filters don’t last forever. Over time, they can become clogged or stop filtering effectively. Depending on the type and your usage, they typically need to be replaced every 2 to 6 months. Clean filters improve taste and clarity and help reduce contaminants in your drinking water, so check your fridge and pitchers and swap those filters. 

Air Vents and HVAC Filters

Dirty air filters in your HVAC system can make the air in your home feel stuffy and force your system to work harder than it needs to. Experts recommend checking them monthly and replacing them every 1 to 3 months, especially if you have pets or allergies. Clean filters mean better airflow, lower energy bills, and improved air quality in your home.

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

"Smoke detectors are generally good for 10 years," says Nashville Fire Department engineer Justin Speakman. "However, the batteries should be changed annually. The best way to remember is to change them every year with the summer time change."

Even if your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are hardwired, most have backup batteries that must be replaced regularly. Fresh batteries help ensure your detectors stay fully functional in an emergency, giving you peace of mind when it matters most.

Pillows

Waking up with neck pain? Well, when was the last time you changed your pillows? If you can't recall, you may have found the culprit. Pillows should be replaced about every two years (or sooner) due to loss of support and the risk of dust mites.

Shower Curtain Liners

Shower curtain liners can collect mold and mildew before you know it. Swapping them out every 6 months keeps your bathroom looking and smelling fresh. If you have a washable liner, go ahead and toss it into the laundry to get it looking as good as new. 

Bath and Kitchen Mats

Since bath and kitchen mats need to be washed regularly (typically around every other week), they can become worn out quicker than you think. With their constant exposure to moisture, hard-to-lift musty smells and a threadbare look and feel may develop unless mats are switched out annually.

Chargers

Take stock of what devices you charge regularly and determine how many use the same cord. You might find you only need one or two to keep your electronics running smoothly. “[The extra chargers] are taking up valuable space. It’s time to toss the cords and start fresh with a simple, streamlined charging station,” professional organizer Melanie Seaver explains. 

Moreover, most electronic chargers begin to show wear and tear after about two years (or sooner, depending on how frequently they're used). If your charger feels hot to the touch, has frayed wires, or if your device isn't receiving or holding a charge, it's likely time for a replacement. Continued use can result in a fire safety risk, as well as potential damage to your device.

Cosmetics

Most cosmetics have a shelf life of 3 to 24 months after opening, depending on the type of product and its ingredients. (For example, mascara should be discarded every 3 months due to its formulation and close contact with the eye area.)

To avoid irritation or infection, it's important to replace expired items. Look on the product's packaging for a small symbol that looks like a partially lidded jar. The number listed here is the total number of months the product is good for after opening.

Cleaning Products

Carefully evaluate your cleaning cabinet: The products inside actually have a shelf-life. Bleach, for example, begins losing its potency six months after opening. Heavily perfumed products may also need tossing due to how their scent can be affected post-expiration date.