Here's how often you need to replace everything in your ...

We all keep pretty close tabs on expiration dates for things in the fridge; well, most of the time anyway. After all, today's salad is tomorrow's science experiment, so there's some built-in incentive. But it's not so simple to know when time's up on other items in the kitchen. Almost everything will require replacement sooner or later. But how do you determine when?

You can find more information on our web, so please take a look.

Dish towels and sponges

When to replace them: Ideally, every day

We've all heard the kitchen sponge horror stories. But what else should we be replacing or at least swapping out for clean ones on a daily basis?

First things first. It's important to acknowledge that not all germs are harmful, as stated by biology professor Elizabeth Scott, Ph.D, co-director of Simmons Center for Hygiene and Health in Home and Community. She explains, "People talk about germs all the time, not knowing what we're talking about. What are germs? There are microbes that cause disease, but the vast majority do not." This misunderstanding is often exploited by the media, and as a result, the term 'germ' is used too liberally.

That being said, it is crucial to practice good hygiene to protect ourselves from specific pathogens. "You need to understand that while we need to protect ourselves from harmful microbes, we shouldn't eliminate beneficial ones," Scott remarks.

So, concerning that sponge, Scott goes on to say, "The wetter the place, the more bacteria there are." The kitchen sink is particularly notorious for encouraging bacterial growth.

In a perfect world, it would be ideal to replace your sponge daily, she suggests. Yet, you can also keep it at your kitchen sink for washing dishes and sanitizing it daily with hot soapy water. However, aim to replace it weekly or biweekly.

In fact, Scott opts for recycled paper towels instead of sponges for kitchen cleaning, particularly avoiding them for surfaces that may have come into contact with raw chicken. The same goes for dishrags and dishcloths; if you cook every day, these should be swapped with clean ones daily.

Cutting boards

When to replace them: When they look worn

Regardless of whether you use wooden, plastic, or stone cutting boards, it is essential to have separate ones for prepping meats and another for vegetables to prevent cross-contamination. Clean them after every use with hot soapy water to eliminate bacteria. Additionally, the USDA advises an extra sanitation step using a solution of 1 tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach per gallon of water. If your cutting boards are excessively worn or feature deep grooves that are hard to clean, it's time for a replacement.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Midas.

Your spice rack

When to replace them: 8 months to a year or two

How about that ancient nutmeg sitting in the back of your cabinet since the pre-iPhone era? According to culinary experts at Serious Eats, ground spices typically last about eight months, while whole spices can last up to a year or two. Fortunately, some whole spices, like nutmeg and star anise, are so dense and flavorful that they can endure for a long time.

On the flip side, finer powders, like turmeric and black pepper, tend to lose their flavor swiftly, and dried herbs, flowers, and zested citrus do not age well.

Your appliances

When to replace them: It depends

Appliances represent some of the most expensive items in the kitchen. How long should we expect to keep them? Roger Beahm, Professor of Practice in Marketing and Executive Director, Center for Retail Innovation at Wake Forest University School of Business, provides some perspective. The brief answer is: until the next exciting model emerges.

He states, "Manufacturers focus less on durability now, because they need to keep costs down, but also because they have to continually innovate."

It's less about how long a dishwasher, stove, or fridge will last in isolation; instead, it relies on your willingness to accept new technology. "If you purchase something and it becomes obsolete, manufacturers will need to innovate," Beahm advises. Expect new models to entice consumers every year.

Be mindful of your preferences. If you crave the latest features, don’t worry about longevity; just choose items that appeal to you now. Alternatively, if you are not keen on smart appliances, consider seeking out products renowned for their durability. According to American Home Shield, the average lifespan of essential home appliances is about 10-15 years. If issues arise within that timeframe, fixing the problem could be more cost-effective than replacement.

The pots and pans

When to replace them: 5 years for non-stick (even less if it starts to peel)

Yes, you may have heard of your grandmother's cast iron skillet lasting a lifetime, but do not expect the inexpensive non-stick cookware from a big-box store to provide the same longevity. According to TheKitchn, you can anticipate around five years for non-stick pots and pans, and it's time to part ways with any that show signs of wear like pitting or peeling. They offer care tips to help ensure your non-stick kitchenware lasts as long as possible.

Are you looking around your kitchen and wondering if it's shopping time? I'm right behind you!

Your Room-by-Room Cleaning Guide

Do you want more tips like these? NBC News BETTER is committed to discovering easier, healthier, and smarter living methods. Sign up for our newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Custom Dining Plates.