Turns out replacing items on a regular basis is key to the sanitization, comfort, and safety of your home. There are several household items you might use daily that are well past their “best if used by date,” even if they seem to still function.

We spoke to three household storage and cleaning experts for the secret items you might be harboring in your home that need to be replaced immediately.

Pantry Goods And Outdated Spices

Honestly, what’s a decluttering spree without organizing your pantry? Odds are your pantry is full of items that are way past their shelf life, and, let’s be honest, not going to be eaten. “Stale baking ingredients and old canned goods can affect the taste and quality of your meals. Check expiration dates and toss anything past its prime,” says Williams. She also say in order to keep your pantry at it’s freshest, check your goods every 3-6 months for expired expiration dates so you know what to toss.

Right after your pantry raid, don’t forget to check your spices next. You might discover that you already have multiple bottles of the same spice in your cabinet, or that it’s been several years since you last used some. “Ground spices expire after roughly 2-3 years, whereas whole spices will last between 3-4 years,” says Reinders. “If your spices have faded or lost their fragrance, it is time to change them.”

To test whether or not your dusty spices are still at a fresh point, Reinders says to use this test: “rub a pinch between your fingers and sniff–if the smell is faint or absent, they are no longer good.”

Makeup & Skincare

Unless you’re using your makeup and skincare products at a consistent rate to run out fairly quickly, then you might want to check these areas for things to toss too. According to Reinders, using expired products can lead to skin irritation or infections. While he says most makeup and skincare products now have what’s called a PAO (Period After Opening) symbol somewhere on the product, other signs to watch for are changes in color, texture, and scent.

“Mascara must be replaced every 3 months, foundation every 6-12 months, and moisturizers generally last 6-12 months once opened,” he says.

Cleaning Supplies

Regardless if you use chemical cleaners or all natural ones, they won’t hold their strength forever. Williams says that it’s time to get rid of any disinfectants or multi-purpose cleaners that have been sitting under your sink for years since they lose their effectiveness as time goes on.

Mop Heads

While mop heads are used to clean your home, they become dirty and ineffective the longer you use them. “Using a frayed, discolored, or smelly one doesn’t really clean your home,” echoes Shields. “Instead of picking up dirt, your mop might just be spreading them around.”

She says disposable mop pads should be thrown away after every use. “For cotton, replace every month or two because these hold onto bacteria. Then for microfiber, every 2 to 3 months. You can replace them earlier if you mop frequently.”

Pillows

Reinders says that while it’s not common knowledge to know that pillows need replacement every 1 to 2 years, there are signs to watch for that indicate your pillow’s no longer in its glory days.

“The clues that new pillows are needed include: permanent lumps that no longer fluff out, discoloration or yellowing, strong odors, or neck pain upon awakening,” he says. “Pillows trap dead skin cells, dust mites, and oils from your hair and skin. Replacement is important, especially for those with allergies, to ensure a good night’s sleep and stay healthy.”

Kitchen Sponges

If you don’t already have a pack of kitchen sponges ready to go, then it’s time to add a pack to your cart. According to Reinders, your kitchen sponge is the germiest thing in your kitchen and should be replaced every two to three weeks, possibly sooner if they start to smell or have visible mold present.

“Sanitize them in between replacements by microwaving wet sponges for a minute or washing them in the dishwasher. If your sponge is beginning to disintegrate or has a strong odor even after washing, it’s time to get a new one,” he says.

Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

While you don’t have to replace the actual detector as frequently Reinders notes that it’s in your best interest to make sure the batteries have been replaced every six months. “I suggest doing this when daylight savings time occurs as an easy reminder,” says Reinders. “The actual detectors must be replaced every 10 years for smoke detectors and 5 to 7 years for carbon monoxide detectors, even if they seem to be functioning normally. These are too important to be left to chance.”

Old Towels & Linens

When’s the last time you relished in the comfort of soft, fresh linens? Williams says the last place to check on your decluttering spree are your towels and linens that might have seen better days. “Old towels lose absorbency and can harbor bacteria,” she says, even if they’re washed properly. “If they’re rough, smelly, or fraying, it’s time for an upgrade.”