Replacements Please!

Spring is a great time to assess and clean, repair or replace things you count on all the time. It’s almost pool opening time, and that’s the best time to check up on all your pool related equipment and accessories.

Other things you use routinely need to be checked up on too – keeping everything running smoothly now can save costly and/or timely repair later. As we all know, time flies – you may think you replaced your toothbrush/furnace filter/smoke alarm batteries/oil in your car only to realize it’s actually been 6 months – or longer!

 

10 Things to check up on and replace:

1. Toothbrush

It’s so easy to think you’ll do it tomorrow, but now’s the time to replace it. After 3 – 4 months the old one has done its job; it’s worn down and highly likely to harbor things you don’t want in your mouth. The new one is fresh and clean, ready to take on your teeth and gums. That’s something to smile about!

 

2. Running shoes

Yes, these also need to be replaced. If not, you’ll most likely experience pains, aches or worse. Good running shoes keep you going, and going, and going. Replace them every 3 to 6 months, depending on how often and far you run (or walk).

 

3. Furnace filter

These need regular replacing. You didn’t know that? Yes, this is something that’s not really “common knowledge,” but it’s important. If not replaced, they could cause a fire, that’s a fact. Replacements needed depend upon your furnace size. Replace and relax.

 

4. Smoke detector batteries

Speaking of fire, when your smoke detector batteries run out, wear down, and suddenly, they don’t work. If there’s smoke, there’s a fire and you want to know about it. Plus, that nasty loud beep when the batteries are low is not just annoying, it’s scary – your pets and/or children won’t know what’s going on.

 

5. Beauty products

These may be older than you realize! You apply these to your face, your nails, your hair – it’s important that they are fresh and clean. Products like sunscreen, lipstick, eyeliner, nail polish, face cream, foundation, cleansers shouldn’t be kept in your drawers for longer than a year. Plus, you’ll feel great and look great in the new spring colors – it’s time to refresh your stash!

 

6. Bug spray

Like sunscreen, bug spray loses its effectiveness over time. Summer is coming, and you don’t want to be swatting bugs or applying lotion to bites. Replace last year’s bug spray and be ready for the critters!

 

7. Pool filters

Whatever type of pool filter you have, it becomes less effective with age. How long it lasts depends upon how much it needs to clean. Routine pool maintenance helps a lot, but when the filter has passed its prime, it will get clogged, dirty, and become ineffective. Ask your dealer, they’ll help know when it’s time to replace and have a replacement for you.

 

8. Swimsuits

Yes, we know. Finding swimsuits that fit may not be the most fun thing to do, but when you do find one, you’ll be ready for the season. Old suits can grow thin without you realizing it, elastic can loosen, fasteners can become loose. Of course, you use Instant FROG so your suits haven’t faded like others who swim in all-chlorine pools. But it may be time to check out new styles.

 

9. Beach towels

You know you use them constantly, and you can’t do without them! Check out your pile of towels and replace the old ones – everyone loves a fresh new colorful beach towel!