The bathroom is a significant area in our homes, offering a space for relaxation and personal care. But despite its importance in our daily routine, it’s common for clutter, disorder, and items that have overstayed their usefulness to gather in this space.
These things take up room, lurk in corners, and even present potential health concerns. Proactively identifying and removing these items is essential to uphold a neat, safe, and well-organized bathroom. Here are 12 items commonly found in bathrooms that should be discarded promptly.
Old Cosmetics and Makeup
Contrary to popular belief, your beauty products aren’t meant to stick around forever. When it comes to cosmetics like eyeshadow, foundation, lipstick, and mascara, these products start losing quality over time and can become a breeding ground for all sorts of bacteria.
Since most makeup items aren’t stamped with expiration dates, it is difficult to figure out when to let them go. However, the best thing to do is watch out for shifts in color, texture, or scent. These are the telltale signs that your makeup has run its course.
Speaking of specifics, mascara that’s been on the scene for over three months? It’s time to part ways. Lipsticks that have seen better days? Toss ’em. And let’s not forget those makeup brushes that are gathering dust – they’re also due for an exit.
Soap Scraps
Soap scraps have a tendency to pile up in the shower. Unless you’ve got a way to combine all those soap scraps scattered around your shower into a functional bar of soap, it’s best to toss them out.
Aged Medication
Expired drugs, medications, or vitamins might not be safe for consumption. Adhere to the directions on the label to properly dispose of the medication. Take some time to clear out your medicine cabinet. Round up any expired pills, antacids, laxatives, and cold medicines you might have.
Hotel Sample Sizes
It’s likely that those product samples, such as shampoo, conditioner, perfume, and skincare items you’ve collected from hotels or giveaways, will go unused. Often, they’re just cluttering up space. Consider sorting through your stash to free up room for the full-size products you actually use.
Old Toothbrush
What’s the likelihood of you repurposing or reusing that old toothbrush? Probably small. Dental experts suggest swapping out your toothbrush every three to four months. Unless you have intentions of scrubbing grout or buffing your shoes with that old toothbrush, it’s probably best to part ways with it.
Worn Loofahs and Sponges
Sponges and loofahs tend to accumulate bacteria over time. It’s a good idea to swap them out every one to two months or even earlier if you spot mold or detect an off-putting odor. If you’re aiming for a more hygienic bathing routine, consider switching from sponges and poufs to a washcloth that you can wash after each use.
Worn Towels
It’s time to toss those worn-out towels. The towels have holes and major stains. A good way to gauge whether a towel is worth holding on to is if you’d feel comfortable (or embarrassed) handing it to a guest. If you feel uncomfortable, then it’s time to toss it.
Unused Hair Appliances
If you’ve got a hair appliance that’s worn or unused, it’s time to consider letting it go. Chances are, you won’t end up using it again, and it’s just occupying unnecessary space. Plus, if it’s broken with a frayed cord, it poses risks of electrical shock and fire hazards.
Bathroom Books and Magazines
Having magazines or books in the bathroom might seem convenient for a quick read. However, it’s worth noting that they can become a haven for germs and mildew. The moisture present in bathrooms can cause these reading materials to absorb moisture, leading to wrinkled pages and a decline in the binding quality.
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Expired First Aid Items
First aid items like rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide do have expiration dates. Once they’re expired, their effectiveness can decrease, and their potency might be compromised due to aging.
Open Feminine Hygiene Products
If a tampon, or feminine hygiene pad, is unwrapped, you might want to get rid of it. This opened product may have come into contact with bacteria, lint, and other undesirables you’d rather avoid down there. If that’s the situation, it’s best to dispose of them immediately. The potential risk of an infection just isn’t worth it.
Dried Up Wipes
Flushable wipes often find their way into our bathrooms, but it’s not uncommon for us to forget to properly seal the packaging, leading them to dry out. If this happens, it’s a sign that it’s time to dispose of them. Additionally, it’s important to note that despite their labeling, flushable wipes can cause issues for your toilets and drains.
Guest Bathroom Essentials List
If you are anything like me and want to adequately prepare your guest bathroom for your house guests, check out this extensive guest bathroom essentials list. This list includes many bathroom items your guests may need while prioritizing style, comfort, and some luxuries.
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Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
