Clean Up for Better Health

Cleaning can be a total bummer. Who wants to go through all the stuff they have hidden in their closets?

What if you were told that tidying up your act could help you live healthier? Rumor has it, you are holding on to a few things that are keeping you from doing just that. Here are six items you should toss right away.

* Trade in your pillow. This is a tough one. You have finally worked your pillow into a shape that fits your head oh-so-nicely. But dust mites have also taken a liking to your fluffy resting place, causing bacteria and allergy symptoms. Change your pillow every year or buy a protector to extend its life.

* Stop popping vitamins. Until you check the expiration dates, that is. If the bottle isn’t marked, health experts say most supplements should be thrown in the can two years after you bought them.

* Say buh-bye to boo-boo relief. When the one-year mark hits, it’s time to throw away that antibacterial cream. Any longer than that, and it may not be too helpful with healing your bumps and bruises.

* Keep your peepers safe. Contact lens solution goes bad after three months, upping your chance of infection. Chuck it to the garbage and buy a new case every three months, too.

* Safeguard your pearly whites. The American Dental Association says you should trade your toothbrush in for a new one every three to four months. Otherwise, those shabby bristles will not properly clean your teeth, leading to decay.

* It’s time for the smoke alarm to go. After 10 years, experts say a smoke alarm has been worked to the bone. The unit’s sensory are not as sensitive, leaving you at an increased risk during a fire. Be sure to also test alarms every month and replace the batteries at least once a year.

We want to know: What special cleaning measures do you take year-round to ensure a healthy home? [MSNBC]