Below, we suggest a list of everyday items that need replacing regularly - and, where possible - some recycling recommendations.
When to replace toothbrushes and toothbrush heads
every three months
Why should I replace them?
Studies show toothbrushes are far less effective at removing plaque after the initial three months of use, as the bristles become worn. Dentists also say it’s important to change your toothbrush following illnesses such as mouth infections.
Looking for a reliable toothbrush? See our pick of the , or head to our to compare brands.When to replace cleaning products
two years is standard
Why should I replace them?
The chemicals in the products may start to degrade over time, becoming less effective. Most of the plastic bottles are recyclable once any film sleeves are removed.
Water companies say household cleaning products should only be disposed of in small amounts down the drain if they are heavily diluted.
The general guidance is that the same amount of water should be used to dilute the fluid as the volume of the original container, but the more dilution the better. This is because cleaning fluids are a mix of alkalis, acids, and corrosive and irritating chemicals, which can be harmful to the bacteria that are used to treat wastewater.
Always read the label on each container, as this will give specific guidance on how best to dispose of the contents. And remember not to dispose of multiple different products at once, as they may react with one another and release dangerous gasses such as chlorine.
When to replace ear plugs for sleep
Ear plugs used for sleep should be replaced regularly, for hygiene reasons.
used oncethree to six monthsAlpine, which makes one of the reusable ear plugs we tested, says their lifespan depends upon how often you use them. If you use them every day, Alpine recommends replacing them after three to four months.
Eat well, live better and stay healthy.
Why should I replace them?
Wax or silicone ear plugs aren’t meant for long-term use. Ears are warm and dark, making them a perfect breeding ground for bacteria, which can build up on dirty ear plugs.
As well as the risk of infection, they can stop fitting your ear as well and lose their effectiveness. It is difficult to recycle most ear plugs, but check the packaging for guidance.
However the smallest box is £132, so this does come at a sizeable cost.
When to replace smoke alarms
every 10 years
Be inspired to make home improvements.
Why should I replace them?
Over time, smoke alarm sensors become less sensitive, meaning they may not detect heat or smoke as well as they once did.
For safety reasons, it is important to ensure your alarms are checked and replaced regularly. Many local authority recycling centres will accept smoke alarms - but make sure the batteries are removed first.
When to replace Sodastream bottles
every three years
Why should I replace them?
Repeated use of the bottles as pressurised containers over a period of time subjects them to wear and tear. However, they are made of PET (polyethylene terephthalate), which can be recycled along with the other recyclable plastics in your household.
When to replace infant car seats
five to 12 years
Why should I replace them?
The main reasons are safety-related.
A car seat may be exposed to high temperatures and high levels of light intensity just from being in your car all day, so the materials may start to degrade - plus there may be wear and tear on the harness and buckle, particularly if they’ve been removed for cleaning.
This means an old, well-used seat may not provide the same level of protection as a newer seat.
Car seat technology and regulations can move on quite a bit in 10 years, so it’s important to use the most up-to-date car seat for your child.
That said, given the cost of a car seat and concerns about landfill, many parents can find getting rid of a car seat a difficult decision.
In the past, recycling car seats has been a challenge but there are some brands that are making it easier. Well-known names like Silver Cross and Maxi Cosi say they have made it easier to recycle their car seats.
Silver Cross has a recycling service, with customers able to book a free collection for their car seat, while Maxi Cosi says its seats can be taken to local recycling centres, where the components are broken down and recycled separately.
When to replace pillows
Different types of pillows have different lifespans, so it’s worth factoring that in when you buy them.
every two to three yearsUsually, feather and down pillows have a longer lifespan than synthetic ones and retain their support and height for longer. Latex pillows are also very good at retaining their shape.
Why should I replace them?
There are two main reasons. As your pillow starts to sag and lose its shape, it will no longer offer your neck the support it needs.
Recycling pillows is not easy. Generally, councils advise you drop them at a local recycling centre, although the charity Recycle Now says pillows are not typically recyclable.
You may want to consider repurposing old pillows - for example, as a kneeling pad when doing gardening - or some animal charities may be interested in using them as bedding. Some stores - including some Dunelm outlets - also offer a recycling service.
Looking for the perfect pillow? Read our guide to the .When to replace a mattress
every eight to 10 years
Why should I replace them?
If you are trying to sleep on a sagging, shapeless mattress, it may affect the quality of your sleep. According to the NHS, an uncomfortable bed is one of the most common causes of insomnia. Supportive, comfortable bedding should help you sleep more peacefully.
When we test mattresses, we roll heavy barrels over each mattress 30,000 times to simulate 10 years of use, so you know our Best Buy recommendations will stand the test of time.
source https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/do-you-need-to-replace-these-everyday-items-aCLVK7l6ws2i