The Come Clean Blog
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Cleaning products are a staple in every household, but have you ever wondered if they expire or lose their effectiveness over time? The answer is yes, and understanding the shelf life of common cleaners can help you maintain a safer, more efficient home.
Many people hold onto cleaning supplies for years, unaware that expired products may not work as intended. In this guide, we’ll explore:
- The shelf life of different cleaning products
- Some signs products have gone bad
- How long to expect your go-to products should last
Plus, we’ll offer tips on how to extend the life of your products, saving money and reducing waste with refillable and sustainable options like those offered by JAWS refillable cleaning products.
Why It’s Important to Check the Expiration Dates on Cleaning Supplies
Over time, the active ingredients in cleaning products break
down, reducing their effectiveness. Factors like exposure to heat, light, and air can accelerate this process. Expired products may not only perform poorly but could also pose safety risks, such as skin irritation or chemical reactions.
Always check expiration dates before purchasing or if they have been sitting for long periods. To read expiration dates on cleaning products, look for "use-by," "best-before," or "expiration" dates printed on the container. They may be on the bottom or the side of the container. These dates indicate when the product is likely to be most effective. Pay close attention to the format, which can vary from product to product.
How Long Do Common Cleaning Supplies Last?
Household cleaners generally have a shelf life ranging from 6 months to 2 years. However, several factors can influence this including exposure to sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture. Let’s look at common cleaning supplies and what can influence their effectiveness.
How Long Until Bleach Goes Bad?
Bleach is a powerhouse cleaner, but its shelf life is shorter than you might expect. Unopened bleach typically lasts 12 to 18 months. Once opened, it begins to degrade and loses effectiveness within 6 months. If your bleach smells weak or doesn’t clean as well as before, it may be time to replace it.
- Tip: Store bleach in a cool, dark place and tightly seal the cap after each use to slow degradation.
Dish Soap Expiration & Shelf Life
Dish soap’s shelf life can last 6 to 18 months, depending on the brand and formulation. While it doesn’t pose significant health risks after expiring, its ability to cut grease and create suds diminishes over time.
- Signs of Expiration: If the soap becomes watery, separates, or smells different, it’s expired.
Does Laundry Detergent Expire?
Once opened, liquid laundry detergent can last 6 to 12 months. Powder detergents last longer, typically 1 to 2 years, but they can clump if exposed to moisture.
- Pro Tip: Use refillable products like JAWS Multi-Purpose Cleaner to avoid waste and ensure you’re always using fresh, practical solutions.
How Long Does Disinfectant Spray Last?
Disinfectant sprays, such as Lysol, last about two years. After that, they may not effectively kill bacteria and viruses.
- Check for Expiry: Look for expiration dates printed on the bottom of the can. If you can’t find a date, label it with the purchase date as a reminder.
- JAWS Glass Cleaner will get the toughest jobs clean and can disinfect surfaces.
How to Extend the Life of Your Cleaning Supplies
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Heat and humidity accelerate product degradation.
- Seal Tightly: Prevent air from entering by tightly closing bottles and containers.
- Buy Smaller Quantities: Only purchase what you need to avoid long-term storage.
- Switch to Refillable Options: JAWS refillable cleaning products allow you to mix fresh batches as needed, ensuring long-lasting potency.
Products to Help Keep Your Cleaning Supplies Organized
Maintaining an organized cleaning supply closet is important for efficient and effective cleaning. When cleaning supplies are neatly organized, you can easily locate and access them, ensuring they are used regularly before they expire. This prevents waste and saves you time and effort in searching for misplaced items.
- JAWS Cleaning Caddy – Perfect for keeping cleaning supplies neatly stored.
- JAWS Microfiber Cloths – Ideal for pairing with non-expired cleaners for regular use.
By understanding the shelf life of your cleaning products, you’ll ensure a cleaner, safer, and more efficient home.