How Often Should You Clean This?

 

Wondering if your housekeeping is up to par? When is it time to replace certain items? Do you clean your cleaning tools?

We've got advice on some common and some not-so-obvious places and things to take care of throughout your home to help keep it healthy.

Sheets: You shed 500 million cells daily. Your bed is also subject to sweat, pollen, pet dander, fungi and mold. Bedding should be washed at least once every two weeks, more often if you sweat a lot at night, or if you’ve been sick.

Pillow:  It absorbs body oil, dead skin cells and hair. To help prolong its’ life, wash it every six months and add a protectant case between the pillow and cover. But it should still be replaced every one to two years.

Toothbrush (or the brush head on your electric toothbrush): Should be replaced every three to four months, sooner if the bristles look worn out. 

Kitchen sponge:  Every week. Bacteria that can cause foodborne disease stay on dish sponges or scrubbers even if they’ve been cleaned in the microwave or in boiling water.  

Towel:  You should wash or switch your bath towel at least once a week. Dish towels – pretty much after every use.

Makeup brush:  You should be buying new makeup brushes about every three months as needed to replace worn-out ones. Signs it’s time to replace your brush include lost bristles, discoloration or unusual smells.

Reusable water bottle:  To know when to replace it, look out for any foul smells you just can’t get rid of despite washing, any buildup of gunk around the mouthpiece or lid, or cracks in the plastic.

Yoga mat:  Good news! You don’t necessarily have to replace it regularly — cleaning it properly will do just fine. Cleaning it after every use by wiping it down with a disinfectant is your best bet for proper hygiene.