If you’ve recently been ill, continue practising good oral hygiene and follow your dentist’s advice; replacing your toothbrush after every ordinary illness is not generally necessary.
Helpful tip: Keep an eye on the bristles rather than relying solely on the calendar. A worn toothbrush may need replacing earlier.
6. Kitchen Sponges: Clean Frequently and Replace When Worn
Kitchen sponges are constantly exposed to water, food residue, and kitchen surfaces. Their damp, porous structure can allow microorganisms to accumulate.
Rinse sponges thoroughly after use, squeeze out excess water, and leave them somewhere they can dry between uses. Replace them regularly, especially if they develop an unpleasant smell, become damaged, or remain persistently damp.
There isn’t one replacement interval that suits every sponge. Frequency depends on how heavily it is used and the manufacturer’s guidance.
It’s also worth remembering that sanitising a sponge doesn’t make it suitable for every cleaning task. Avoid using the same sponge for raw meat juices and ready-to-eat food surfaces.
Helpful tip: Consider using separate cleaning cloths for different kitchen tasks, and wash reusable cloths frequently.
7. Home Air Filters: Check Every Month
Air filters in heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems help capture dust and other airborne particles. When filters become clogged, airflow can be restricted and the system may have to work harder.
Rather than automatically replacing every filter every three months, check it regularly and follow the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. Some filters require replacement monthly, while others can last several months or longer.
Homes with pets, smokers, high dust levels, or residents with allergies may need more frequent filter changes.
Helpful tip: Write the installation date on the filter or set a reminder on your phone so you know when it needs checking again.
8. Makeup Brushes: Clean Weekly or More Often When Needed
Makeup brushes can accumulate cosmetic residue, oil, and dead skin cells. Using dirty brushes may contribute to skin irritation or transfer unwanted material between products and your skin.
Brushes used for liquid or cream makeup generally benefit from frequent cleaning, often around once a week. Brushes used less often for powder products may need cleaning less frequently, depending on use.
