We’ll walk you through exactly when and how you should get rid of each item.

To avoid spreading germs around your kitchen, it’s important to replace your sponge about once a month.

Throw it away immediately (ortoss it in the compost bin!)

Cleaning supplies under a sink

Credit: Werner Straube

if the date has passed or if you notice mold or an unpleasant smell.

Plastic breaks down over time, which can cause chemicals to leach into your food.

You should also get rid of any containers that are missing a lid or have an unusual smell.

kitchen sink filling with soap water with color striped bowls

Credit: Marty Baldwin

Invest in a new set.

Most recycling centers take plastic Nos.

Dust mites also accumulate, which can be troublesome to people suffering from asthma or allergies.

placing orange in organized fridge

Credit: Peter Ardito

You should dispose of cleaning products after a few years and replace them with fresh bottles.

Once the containers are empty, it’s possible for you to typically recycle them in your curbside bin.

Toextend their shelf life, store these items in a cool, dry spot.

cupboard of food storage containers organized in plastic bins

Credit: Jay Wilde

Dump old herbs and spices into your compost bin or trash can before recycling the container.

Plus, stray bacteria or food debris may lodge in toothbrushes.

Throw them away after a few months, especially if you’ve been ill. you’re able to also buy a slide and negative scanner and electronically store them yourself.

Bedroom with paisley bedspread and star light

Credit: The Wilde Project

Alternatively, look into companies likeGreenDiskthat can accept film and negatives for recycling.

Refresh mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and other eye makeup products after about half a year.

Instead of storing individual cards, add the information to your phone’s contact list.

Cupboard filled with spices and oils

Credit: Edward Gohlich

How to toss it:Recycle paper business cards when finished.

Check the packaging for an expiration date.

To prolong its shelf life, store your nail polish in a cool, dark place.

toothbrush holder

Credit: Adam Albright

If the polish becomes discolored or especially thick, it’s time to dispose of the bottle.

How to toss it:Nail polish often contains hazardous ingredients that require special care for disposal.

Pour leftover nail polish onto newspaper, let dry completely, then throw all components into the trash.

Binder of photo negatives

Credit: Greg Scheidemann

hit up the retailer to see if they’ll accept your used card for recycling.

How to toss it:Recycle paper manuals in your household bin.

Keep your bleach in good shape by storing it in a cool, dry place.

Makeup bag in cupboard

Credit: Cameron Sadeghpour

Card files with colored pencils

Credit: Adam Albright

Cupboard with medicines and vitamins

Credit: Jay Wilde

Different kinds of sunscreen on beach towel

Credit: Peter Ardito

spa party hands painting fingernails red polish

Credit: Rebekah Molloy

Bag filled with gift cards

Credit: Marty Baldwin

Pouring red wine into a wine glass

Credit: Erica Michelsen Allen

Different cans of paint

Credit: Kim Cornelison

Stacks of DVDs and CDs

Credit: Laura Moss

Binder filled with appliance manuals

Credit: Marty Baldwin

Bleach next to blue fabric and spray bottle

Credit: Steven McDonald