There are various items whose expiry dates we do not check at all and so, we keep using them until they finish. We may be concerned about rotten eggs or spoiled milk but we never check the expiration dates of items such as sanitizers, disinfectants, and so on. With time, some of these products become less effective at fulfilling their purpose and hence, it is essential to check their expiration dates. The following are commonly-used items whose shelf life you may want to check before using.

1. Moisturizers

If you use a moisturizer for longer than its shelf life, you may be exposing yourself to harmful bacteria. Active ingredients in moisturizers break down within a year after opening and so, you must be wary of your moisturizer’s ‘best before’ date.

Moose/Pexels | Replace old sunscreen after its shelf life ends  without waiting for them to finish

2. Sunscreens

Sunscreens also have an expiration date of around three years so,if you don’t remember how long your sunscreen has been lying in your bag, it may be time to get a new one! Sunscreens lose their effectiveness after they expire, which means they would not protect your skin from sunlight.

3. Toothpaste

Toothpaste also expires! So, if you have been using the same toothpaste for two years, it may be a good idea to replace it.

Photomix company/Pexels | Keeping a check of the shelf life of your toothpaste is good for oral health

4. Sponges

Yes, your sponges may have more bacteria than you think and hence, researchers suggest to replace or clean them after a week of use.

5. Bleach

Researchers say that an opened bottle of bleach becomes ineffective in removing bacteria and germs after six months. You may be prone to infections if you are using expired bleach, therefore, make sure to check its label before using.

Nothing ahead/Pexels | Even the most powerful bleach can lose its effectiveness after shelf life

6. Eye Drops

Eye drops contain a preservative which keeps them sterile for 28 days after the seal has been broken. Using eye drops for longer than their shelf life may cause an eye infection. Hence, it is best to throw it away four weeks after you have opened it.

7. Disposable Razors

According to research, disposable razors have a shelf life of three shaves. Using it for longer than that can result in skin rashes and/or irritation. So, make sure to change your razors frequently.