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LIFESTYLE

Understanding when to part ways with common household items and clothing

How to make informed decisions on letting go and refreshing your living space

By Maeghan Dolph Fox News
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Our homes are filled with everyday items that serve us well, but recognizing when it's time to bid them farewell is key to maintaining an organized living space. 

Here are practical insights into the life cycles of common household items and clothing to help you make informed decisions about when to let go.

  1. Household items
  2. Clothing

NEW YEAR, NEW STYLE: TRICKS TO HELP GET RID OF CLOTHES YOU HAVEN'T WORN

1. Household items

A regular assessment of household items ensures not only a visually appealing living space, but also one that prioritizes comfort, hygiene and efficient daily routines. 

Understanding when to say goodbye to these specific household items contributes to a better living environment, fostering a functional home.

Bedding 

Bedding, which encompasses everything from cozy sheets to comforting comforters, is the foundation of a good night's sleep. 

Because sheets are regularly used and washed, they tend to hold up well for about two to five years, while comforters can provide warmth and comfort for a more extended period, typically lasting seven to 10 years. 

DANGERS YOU CAN'T SEE MAY BE LURKING IN YOUR UNWASHED BEDDING, SAYS STUDY: BEWARE THE ‘HEALTH CONCERNS’

Beyond the obvious signs of fading colors, pay attention to subtle clues like thinning fabric, the loss of elasticity in fitted sheets or a noticeable decrease in overall comfort. 

  • Woman carries stack of bath towels
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    A woman carries a pile of towels while doing the laundry at home. Bath towels last well for about two to five years with regular use and washing. (iStock)

  • Woman sleeping in
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    Knowing when to replace sheets depends on various factors, including the material's quality, frequency of use and proper care. (iStock)

  • sponge washing mug in kitchen sink
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    Deciding when to replace household items like cups depends on their condition, material and your use patterns. (iStock)

Towels 

Towels are crucial for daily use and play a significant role in our personal care. 

Bath towels last well for about two to five years with regular use and washing. Rather than just following a general timeline, be attentive to specific signs that suggest it's time for a replacement. Look out for more than just reduced absorbency; notice details like a lingering musty odor or frayed edges. 

Kitchen utensils 

In our kitchens, where the magic of cooking happens, kitchen utensils play a vital role in our everyday lives. These tools come in different materials, each contributing to their durability and lifespan. From stainless steel to plastic and rubber, the choice of material influences how long they'll serve us. 

Whether it's cracks appearing on handles, rust on metallic surfaces or wear that's impacting their functionality, certain cues tell us it's time for a change.

2. Clothing 

When it comes to our wardrobe essentials, understanding the life cycle of T-shirts, casual wear, jeans and undergarments is pivotal for maintaining a stylish and functional closet.

T-shirts and casual wear

T-shirts and casual wear typically have a duration of one to two years before signs of wear and tear become apparent. 

WHEN TO GET RID OF CLOTHES: A 10-STEP GUIDE TO PARTING WITH OLD PIECES

Cotton shirts may show wear sooner compared to other materials. Indications such as fading, pilling, stretched-out necklines or stubborn stains show that it's time to get rid of them. 

  • Boxes of free clothing
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    Boxes of free clothing and items are left on a curb for anyone to take in Queens, New York. (Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

  • Clothing donations
    Image 2 of 2

    Discarded shoes and clothes are sorted in front of a closet in boxes for donation. (Annette Riedl/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Jeans

The kind of fabric, whether it's a denim blend or 100% cotton, can affect how jeans hold up. It's not just waiting for the clock to run out; it's about noticing the little signs.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH YOUR JEANS? CLEANING EXPERTS SETTLE THE DEBATE

Watch out for wear in high-stress areas, fraying hems or a shift in style preferences as cues to let go. 

And, of course, keep your own style in mind; if your taste shifts, it might be the perfect time to think about getting a new pair of jeans. 

Undergarments

As the anchor of our daily clothing routine, undergarments are essential with a lifespan usually falling within six months to a year. 

Elasticity loss, visible wear or changes in size are key signals that it's time to refresh this vital part of your wardrobe. 

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Knowing when to say goodbye to common household items and clothing is a skill that contributes to an orderly and intentional living environment.

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Remember, letting go is a natural part of life's cycles — allowing for growth, renewal and a more purposeful living space.

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