Toothpaste and Tea Bags Have 'Expiration Dates' Too: Check These 10 Household Items

• Insect Repellent • Shelf life: Approx. 3 years • Condition: While key repellent ingredients (like DEET or Picaridin) are relatively stable, other components can degrade over time, reducing effectiveness. • Mascara • Shelf life: 3 to 6 months after opening • Condition: The liquid environment is prone to bacterial growth and comes into direct contact with the eye area. Discard immediately if it dries out, clumps, or develops an odor. • Batteries • Shelf life: Approx. 10 to 15 years (varies by type) • Condition: Besides losing power when stored for too long, there's a risk of internal chemical leakage damaging electronic devices. • Moisturizing Cream • Shelf life: Starting around 6 months after opening • Condition: Active ingredients lose efficacy, and preservative effects diminish, making it prone to bacterial and fungal growth, potentially causing skin irritation. • Car Engine Oil • Shelf life: Approx. 2 to 5 years if unopened • Condition: Degraded oil can affect engine lubrication, increasing wear and fuel consumption. Replace if it turns dark brown or becomes viscous. • Toothpaste • Shelf life: Approx. 2 years overall; recommended to use within 3 to 12 months after opening. • Condition: Prolonged storage can reduce the effectiveness of ingredients, especially weakening the cavity-prevention properties of fluoride toothpaste. • Tea Bags • Shelf life: Approx. 12 to 18 months • Condition: Aroma and flavor diminish over time. Do not consume if they become damp, moldy, or smell musty. • Bleach • Shelf life: Approx. 1 year • Condition: The active ingredient gradually decomposes.