7 Everyday Essentials You Should Replace at Least Once a Year

Filters

While you probably replace your water filter regularly, there are many other filters in your home that you might not even be aware of. Failure to swap out those used filters for fresh ones can be problematic, says Shantae Duckworth, professional organizer and founder of Shantaeize Your Space.

According to Duckworth, filters—whether in your HVAC system, wall AC units, portable air purifiers, or range hoods—get clogged with dust, allergens, and debris over time, making your systems work harder and your air less clean. Over time, these filters get clogged with dust, pollen, pet dander, cooking residue, and all sorts of airborne debris

“When that happens, not only does your air become less clean (which can aggravate allergies or asthma), but your appliances also have to work harder to do their jobs,” the pro organizer says. “That extra strain can shorten the life of your systems and drive up your energy bills.”

Plastic Food Containers

If your leftovers aren’t staying fresh in the plastic food containers you’re currently using, you’ve probably been holding onto them for far too long.

“Even if they look perfectly fine on the outside, over time they can become scratched or warped, especially if they’ve been through the microwave or dishwasher repeatedly,” explains Duckworth. “Those little scratches can trap bacteria, making it harder to get them truly clean, and lingering smells or stains from past meals can build up no matter how well you wash them.”

If those containers are really old, or you don’t know where they came from, they could be very dangerous. According to Duckworth, older plastics may start to break down or leach chemicals when heated, which isn’t something you want near your food.

“Replacing them yearly is a simple, affordable way to keep your kitchen safer and more hygienic,” she adds. “It’s also a great excuse to finally get rid of the mismatched lids and warped bottoms cluttering your cabinets.”

Pillows

Do you remember the last time you replaced your pillows? Then it’s probably time to treat yourself. Best of all, you’ll get a better night’s sleep.

Leslie Kilgour, professional organizer and founder of Get It Straight, advises replacing your pillows every year. “They can collect sweat, oils, and dust mites, which can affect sleep quality and trigger allergies,” she explains.

If you invest in expensive pillows and don’t want to replace them annually, consider purchasing protective covers for them that are designed to go between the pillow and your pillowcase.

Shower Curtain Liners

While shower curtains are usually easy to clean (most can be cleaned in the washing machine on the gentle cycle), the same rule doesn’t apply to liners.

“They tend to quietly build up mold and mildew,” Kilgour points out. “And, let’s be honest, a new shower liner is a low-cost expense that really brightens up a bathroom!”

Sponges and Dish Brushes

Just because you rinse off your sponges and dish brushes well or attempt to clean them in the dishwasher doesn’t mean they aren’t hiding germs. Kilgour says these items actually need to be replaced at least once a year, if not more frequently.

“They should really be replaced every few weeks, but if you’ve held onto one for over a year, it’s definitely time!” Kilgour says. “Refreshing these items not only keeps your home cleaner, but it also gives you a chance to do a small reset, which can be surprisingly energizing.”

Undergarments and Socks

Are those grippy socks you wear to Pilates every week losing their grip, or—no judgements here—is your underwear not fitting the way it used to? Items like undies and socks don’t last as long as you’d probably like them to.

“Undergarments and socks are the workhorses of your wardrobe,” says Angelia York, vice president of Saint Louis Closet Co. “They’re used daily and washed frequently, which means they wear out faster than you might realize.”

To determine which ones you should let go of, York suggests inspecting for stretched-out waistbands, thinning fabric, or lost elasticity. “Investing in fresh, supportive undergarments not only improves comfort but helps your clothing fit and drape better,” she adds.

White T-Shirts and Everyday Basics

You might love that favorite white shirt or comfy joggers, but if you live in these garments, York advises a yearly replacement.

“White t-shirts, tanks, and camisoles are closet staples that can quickly become dingy, yellowed, or misshapen,” she reveals. “Even if you’re meticulous with laundry, these items tend to lose their crisp look after repeated wear.”

A good rule of thumb York follows: if a white item isn’t truly white anymore, it’s time to replace it.