8 Bathroom Items You Need to Get Rid of ASAP

Bathrooms are the center of busy morning routines, nightly regimens, and basic needs throughout the day. With all this activity comes clutter, and in a typically small room like the bathroom, you can't afford to waste space on items you don't need. Some of the most common culprits of bathroom clutter, such as expired medications and cosmetics, can even pose a hazard to your health.

Clearing out items past their prime or no longer necessary will help you achieve a cleaner, more organized bathroom. Check your cabinets, countertops, drawers, and shelves for these items, then take the necessary steps to dispose of them properly. By getting rid of these non-essentials, you'll have more room to efficiently organize the things you truly need and use throughout your everyday routine.

1. Expired Toiletries

Most toiletry items, such as contact solution, mouthwash, and soap, have expiration dates. Once they're past their prime, these products can break down and lose their effectiveness or even make you sick. Check for a date on the bottom of the container to determine if it's still good to use. If you can't find an expiration date, dispose of anything you've had for over a year.

2. Out-of-Date Beauty Products

All those beauty products in your stash aren't designed to last forever. Especially if they've already been opened, cosmetics like eyeshadow, foundation, lipstick, and mascara begin to decline in quality over time and can harbor loads of bacteria. To determine shelf life, check the label for a small jar icon with a number next to the letter M such as 6M or 12M. This indicates the number of months the product will last after opening it. You should also keep an eye out for color, consistency, or smell changes. These are signs that your makeup is no longer fit for use.

3. Old Medications

Purge your medicine cabinet of medications or vitamins that are no longer needed. Drugs that are expired may be unsafe to use. Most will have a "best before" or "use by" date printed on the label. Follow the label's instructions for safely disposing of the medication, or refer to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines.

4. Sample-Size Products

Be honest: Are you really going to use all those freebie product samples and miniature toiletries snagged from hotels? If not, they're only taking up space. So clear out your collection of single-use samples to make room for the full-size products you actually use.

5. Worn-Out Towels & Rugs

Pare down your linens by discarding any towels (like this plush Better Homes & Gardens Signature Soft Bath Towel, $10, Walmart) that are tattered, stained, or perpetually funky-smelling. Instead, save your storage space for those in good condition that you enjoy using. Reuse old towels and washcloths for cleaning around the house, or consider donating them to a local animal shelter where they can be used to provide comfort for animals. Also consider updating your bath mat (try this Better Homes & Gardens Boho Chic Bath Rug Set, $25, Walmart) to keep mildew out from underfoot.

6. Old Toothbrushes

Twice-daily brushings can cause a lot of wear and tear on your toothbrush; over time, food particles and bacteria can build up between the bristles. For these reasons, the American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush every three to four months. Swap it out even sooner if the bristles become visibly frayed or matted. Regularly wash toothbrush holders and vanity organizers (like this Better Homes & Gardens Faux Marble 4-Piece Vanity Organizer, $23, Walmart) in hot, soapy water.

7. Damaged Hair-Styling Tools

Tools like hair dryers, curling irons, and straighteners can wear out with frequent use. If any of these devices appear damaged, have damaged or frayed cords, or start malfunctioning, you should discard them immediately to avoid the risk of shock or fire. Check with your local waste management program to see if they can accept these items for recycling.

8. Old Sponges and Loofahs

Especially when stored in the warm, moist environment of a shower, sponges and loofahs are susceptible to bacteria growth. Plan to replace these every one to two months, or sooner if you notice moldy spots or an unpleasant smell. For more sanitary bathing, ditch sponges and poufs in favor of a washcloth you can launder after each use.