To keep or not to keep

A lot of us keep some household items longer than necessary, sometimes to the disadvantage of our general quality of living. So, how long is considered "too long" when holding on to stuff that are used often, if not daily?

I chanced upon some friendly advise on when the right time to let go is, and here it is...

Bed Mattresses. The normal lifespan of a cushion is five to seven years. But since mattress technology constantly advances, a visit to a mattress store more often than that
might prove positively impactful on one's quality of sleep. However, a mattress's life also depends on the people using them. The weight and sleeping habits of the users all play a part. If you're regularly waking up feeling stiff and sore after a good night's sleep, it may be time for a new mattress. Consider as well that most people tend to require a more supportive, comfortable mattress as they age, meaning you may need to replace your mattress more frequently as you get older.

Pillows. Manufacturers say two years is the limit when it comes to pillows. After this, your weight on them can make them flat, bumpy and uncomfortable. Pillows also harbor
bacteria, mildew and fungus that can increase over time and cause trouble for people with asthma and allergies (washing your pillow will help with this). If you're not sure your pillow needs replacing, here is a test: fold it in half. If it stays folded, it's time for a new one.

Rugs and Carpeting. Generally, carpeting lasts five to fifteen years, depending on its quality. But rugs in high-traffic areas may need to be replaced much sooner if they show obvious wear or staining. Meanwhile, high-quality area rugs, such as some oriental rugs, can last a lifetime.

Toothbrushes. Your brushing style dictates how soon your toothbrush wears out. Note that once the bristles become frayed and worn, they don't clean your teeth as well.
Dental Associations the world over recommend replacing your toothbrush if it's worn, and at least every three to four months. They also point out that children's toothbrushes often need to be replaced more frequently than adult toothbrushes.

Fire Extinguishers. Contents of fire extinguishers lose pressure over time, meaning if they're too old they won't work when you need them. Experts recommend replacing fire
extinguishers every 10-12 years, and also if they show signs of corrosion, which is a signal that air is leaking out.