Non-edible Products with an Expiration Date (Photo)

When most people think of expiration dates, they usually think of food products.

However, did you know that many non-edible products also come with an expiration date? These products may not spoil or become dangerous to consume, but they can lose their effectiveness over time, leading to potential safety risks or reduced performance. In this article, we’ll explore some common non-edible products that come with an expiration date and the reasons why it’s important to check them.

1. Sunscreen

Sunscreen may not seem like a product that goes bad, but it does have an expiration date. Over time, the SPF (sun protection factor) in sunscreen can degrade and become less effective.

This means that using expired sunscreen may not provide the protection you need, increasing your risk of sunburn, skin damage, and skin cancer. Always check the expiration date on your sunscreen and replace it every two years or sooner if it looks or smells different than when you first bought it.

2. Fire extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are an essential safety item to have in your home or workplace. However, they can lose their effectiveness over time and eventually become useless if not properly maintained.

Although fire extinguishers don’t typically have an expiration date printed on them, they do need to be inspected and serviced regularly. In general, fire extinguishers should be replaced every 5-15 years, depending on the type and manufacturer’s recommendations.

3. Car seats

Car seats are designed to protect children in the event of a car accident. However, they can also expire and fail to perform their intended function if they’re too old.

This is because car seat materials and structures can degrade over time, making them less effective. As a general rule, car seats should be replaced between 6-10 years from the date of manufacture, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Always check the expiration date on your car seat and replace it if it’s expired or been in an accident.

4. Medications

Expired medications can lose their potency and effectiveness, making them less effective at treating the condition they were intended for. Some medications can even become dangerous or toxic if they’re past their expiration date.

Always check the expiration date on your medications and dispose of them properly if they’re expired. Some pharmacies and medical facilities offer medication disposal programs to help you safely get rid of old medications.

5. Contact lenses

Contact lenses may seem like a small and innocuous item, but they can also expire. Expired contact lenses can cause discomfort, irritation, and even infection.

Always check the expiration date on your contact lenses and replace them as recommended by your eye doctor. Don’t wear contact lenses that are expired or damaged, as this can lead to serious eye problems.

6. Batteries

Batteries can lose their charge over time, leading to reduced performance and even leakage. Always check the expiration date on your batteries and replace them as needed.

If you’re storing batteries for a long period of time, keep them in a cool, dry place and check them periodically to ensure they’re still working.

7. Smoke detectors

Smoke detectors are another essential safety item that can save lives. However, they can also expire and fail to work properly. Most smoke detectors are designed to last between 8-10 years, after which they should be replaced.

Always check the expiration date on your smoke detector and replace it if it’s expired or not working properly.

8. Cosmetics

While not all cosmetic products have an expiration date, many do. Expired cosmetics can become contaminated and lead to skin irritation, infections, and other health problems. Always check the expiration date on your cosmetics and replace them as needed.

If a product looks or smells different than when you first bought it, it’s likely expired and should be disposed of.

9. Tires

Tires are another non-edible item that can expire. Over time, the rubber in tires can degrade and become less safe to use on the road. Most tire manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 6 years, regardless of the amount of tread left.

Always check the age of your tires and replace them if necessary, as it can protect you and other drivers on the road.

10. Baby cribs

Baby cribs are designed to provide a safe sleeping environment for infants. However, they can also become unsafe over time if they’re too old or have been damaged.

Most baby crib manufacturers recommend replacing cribs every 10 years, as this allows for wear and tear that can occur. Always check the expiration date on your baby crib or follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure your child’s safety.

Conclusion

Expiration dates aren’t just for food products – many non-edible items also come with an expiration date.

Checking and replacing these items as needed can help ensure their safety and effectiveness, whether it’s protecting your skin from the sun or your children from harm. Take the time to check the expiration dates on your non-edible items, and replace them as needed to stay safe and protected.