10 items you thought you could use forever, but it turns out they still have an expiration date

There are some objects in the house that seem to last forever, but in fact they have an expiration date and need to be periodically replaced to ensure quality during use.

1. Helmet

Everyone knows that helmets need to be replaced after each collision or when stains or signs of damage appear. But in reality, even unused helmets always have an expiration date. You can check the helmet's expiration date on the manufacturer's instructions. According to recommendations from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, helmets should be replaced after 5 - 10 years from the date of manufacture.

2. Gasoline

The quality of gasoline will gradually decrease over time. It is best to use gasoline within 3 - 6 months after purchase.

3. First aid tools

After about 3-5 years, the tape will lose its stickiness and may no longer be sterile even if kept in its packaging.

After one year from the date of manufacture, disinfectant wipes should no longer be used. After 2 years, fever-reducing compresses usually expire. And drugs often lose their effectiveness after they expire.

4. Car seats for children

A child's car seat is best used for 6 years and should also be replaced after a collision or expiration date.

5. Fire extinguisher

When shipped from the factory, a fire extinguisher usually has a shelf life of 3 to 5 years and after 2 years it needs to be recharged and maintained first.

6. Paint

The manufacturer recommends using latex paint within 1 - 2 years after production.

7. Smoke detector

Smoke detectors should be replaced if they have been used for more than 10 years. The production date is usually printed on the back, so pay attention to this information.

8. Battery

Even if never used, an expired battery will not hold its charge as well as a new battery. The battery's expiration date is usually printed on the packaging or on the battery itself.

9. Bed mattress

Depending on the material, bed mattresses will have different expiration dates. But most bed mattresses are good for 10 years. The expiration date of a bed mattress is often noted on the website or in product-related documents.

10. Hand warmers

Old hand warmers may not warm up when used. According to some brands, their warm packs will expire after 4 years. So please check the expiration date before buying.

Kareem Winters

Update 15 October 2023