Never forget again! Here’s your cheat sheet for cleaning and replacing everyday household items.

Ever wonder if you’re cleaning or replacing things at home often enough? Some household items get dirty faster than you think. Others wear out before you even notice.

Guide to cleaning & replacing household items

Regular maintenance of household items is essential for keeping your home running smoothly and for extending the lifespan of your belongings. When you clean and maintain things like your appliances, furniture, or everyday tools, you not only ensure that they function well but also prevent the buildup of dirt, grime, and germs that can affect their performance.

Taking care of things can prevent health issues too. Dust, allergens, bacteria, mould, and other issues can accumulate quickly, and by cleaning or replacing items at the right time, you’re protecting not just the objects themselves but also the quality and overall hygiene of your home.

Plus, addressing issues early can help avoid costly repairs or replacements down the line and prevent bigger problems from arising, saving you time, effort, and money in the long run.

From kitchen sponges to pillows, here’s a simple guide to keep your home fresh and germ-free.

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Kitchen

1. Kitchen sponge: Replace every 1-2 weeks (or sooner if it smells).
2. Dish towels: Wash every 2-3 days.
3. Cutting boards: Disinfect after each use, replace every 1-2 years (or sooner if heavily scratched).
4. Dish drying mat: Wash weekly, replace every 6-12 months.
5. Wooden utensils: Replace every 1-2 years (or when cracked or discoloured).
6. Food containers (plastic): Replace every 6-12 months (or when warped or stained).
7. Non-stick pans: Replace every 3-5 years (or when scratched).
8. Coffee maker: Descale monthly, replace every 5 years (or as needed).
9. Reusable plastic water bottles: Wash daily, replace every 6-12 months (or when damaged).
10. Kitchen knives: Sharpen every 2-3 months, replace when dull beyond repair.
11. Dishwasher filter: Clean monthly, replace as needed.
12. Oven mitts:Wash monthly, replace when worn or thin.
13. Grocery bags (reusable fabric bags): Wash monthly, replace when worn or thin
14. Salt and pepper shakers: Clean every 1-2 months.
15. Refrigerator shelves and drawers: Deep clean every 1-2 months.
16. Ice cube trays (plastic): Wash weekly, replace every 6-12 months.
17. Electric water kettle or boiler: Deep clean every 1-2 months.
18. Microwave: Wipe weekly, deep clean monthly.
19. Oven: Deep clean every 3-6 months.

Laundry

20. Washing machine: Clean monthly (including detergent drawer and filter).
21. Dryer sheets: Replace every 1-2 months (or as needed based on fragrance or softness).
22. Laundry baskets: Clean monthly.
23. Iron: Clean the soleplate every 1-2 months.
24. Ironing mat or board cover: Replace when it gets worn or stained.

Bathroom

25. Toothbrush: Replace every 3 months (or sooner if bristles fray).
26. Shower curtain: Wash monthly, replace every 6-12 months (or when it gets mouldy or worn).
27. Shower head: Clean every 3-6 months (decalcify with vinegar).
28. Bath towels: Wash every 1-3 uses, replace when worn out.
29. Bathroom rug/mat: Wash weekly, replace when it’s no longer absorbent.
30. Toilet brush: Clean weekly, replace every 6-12 months (or when the bristles wear down).
31. Shaving razors: Replace every 5-10 uses (or when dull).
32. Toilet seat: Clean weekly.
33. Loofahs & shower puffs: Rinse after each use, replace every month.
34. Makeup brushes & sponges: Clean weekly.
35. Hair brushes & combs: Wash every 1-2 weeks.

Bedroom

36. Bedding (sheets, blankets, pillowcases): Wash weekly.
37. Pillows: Wash every 3-6 months, replace every 1-2 years.
38. Mattress: Vacuum monthly, replace every 7-10 years.
39. Plush toys: Wash or clean monthly (sooner if played with everyday).

Living area

40. Carpets & rugs: Vacuum weekly, deep clean every 6-12 months.
41. Curtains: Wash or vacuum every 3-6 months.
42. Air conditioner filters: Clean or replace every 1-3 months.
43. Air purifier filters: Clean or vacuum monthly, replace every 6-12 months.
44. Dehumidifier: Clean the water tank every 1-2 weeks, clean air filter every 1-2 months, replace filter every 6-12 months.
45. Remote controls & light switches: Wipe down weekly.
46. Windows: Clean every 2-3 months.

Pet-related items

47. Pet bed: Wash every 1-2 weeks, replace every 1-2 years (or when it becomes worn out or uncomfortable).
48. Pet bowls (food and water): Wash daily, replace when scratched or chipped.
49. Pet leash: Wash monthly, replace every 2-3 years (or when it shows signs of wear, like fraying).
50. Pet toys: Wash every 2-4 weeks, replace when damaged or too dirty.

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Things to note: every household is different, and how often items need cleaning or replacement may vary based on usage and individual circumstances. If certain items are used more frequently in your home, they may require more frequent cleaning or replacement. It’s necessary to assess your own routine and adjust maintenance schedules as needed to keep your items in good condition. And also, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the best results.

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Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining a well-functioning home.
It helps you stay on top of things, giving you more time and peace of mind, while making your home feel comfortable and organised.

Keeping up with regular cleaning and maintenance of household items may seem like a small effort, but it makes a big difference in the long term. It not only keeps your home looking tidy and your belongings in top shape but also helps create a healthier, more comfortable environment.

Ultimately, regular upkeep allows you to enjoy a smoother, stress-free home life, knowing that everything is working as it should.