COSMETICS
Replace after: Three months to two years
Why: Microbe growth in makeup can cause skin irritations and infections, explains Paula Begoun, author of "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me." The worst offenders are liquid cosmetics, which build up bacteria more quickly. Keep mascara for a maximum of three months; other liquids and creams (eyeliner, foundation) for no more than a year. Powders (eyeshadow, blush) can be used safely for up to two years.
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Replace after: 10 to 12 years
Why: The pressurized contents of a fire extinguisher de-pressurize over time. "Eventually, it just becomes a block of 'stuff' inside the cylinder," says Tom Olshanski, director of external affairs for the U.S. Fire Administration — rendering it useless in fighting fires. Extinguishers can deteriorate faster if left in a high-humidity environment. Check your extinguisher on a monthly basis for corrosion, a sure sign air is leaking out, he suggests.
MATTRESSES
Replace after: Seven years
Why: Mattresses wear out over time, says Kathleen Huddy, textiles director for the Good Housekeeping Institute. One that sags or is uneven won't keep your spine in line as you sleep, which means you may have trouble sleeping. It's likely you'll also experience neck and back pain while awake. There's also an ick factor to old mattresses, she explains — they collect dust, dirt and allergens that can't be removed.
PERFUME
Replace after: Two years
Why: Exposure to light, heat and air lighten and alter perfume notes, explains Andrea Walker, a makeup expert with Sephora. "It weakens the scent," she says.
PILLOWS
Replace after: Two years
Why: Pressure on the pillow as you sleep causes it to flatten, and develop uncomfortable bumps and lumps, says GHI's Huddy. To test if your pillow still has life in it, she says, fold it in half and rest your hand on top for 30 seconds. Then let go. "If the pillow pops back, it's fine," she says. If it remains folded, it's time to buy a new one.
http://finance.yahoo.com/family-home/article/102418/When_to_Replace_Common_Household_Items "
