How long can you store cleaning products: terms for household chemicals and home remedies

The main mistake people make when they think that cleaning products are always effective is that this is absolutely not the case. Some formulations can be stored for a long time, but others require frequent replacement.

Disinfectants

These are substances that contain chemically active compounds. Suitable for various tasks and have a bactericidal, sporicidal, fungicidal, and (sometimes) cleaning effect.

The following can act as a disinfectant:

• formaldehyde or sodium hypochlorite;
• solutions of organic substances: chlorhexidine, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), peracetic acid, polyguanidines;
• active oxygen;
• alcohols;
• triamines.

Such products are available in the form of spray, aerosol, and wipes. Shelf life: no more than 2 years. You can usually tell that a product is no longer effective by smelling it. In its active composition it is sharp, but over time it begins to weaken and eventually disappears completely.

Detergents

Of course, usually such compositions are not stored for long, especially if the family does laundry constantly. However, powder, bleach, and other similar products have their own deadlines.

Fabric softener

The product, which makes things softer and gives them a pleasant aroma, can be stored for up to 3 years, provided that the packaging has not been opened. An opened bottle will last very little: up to a year. Over time, the air conditioner loses its properties, the smell disappears, and the beneficial qualities disappear completely.

Tip: Always shake the bottle before use, as conditioner (like rinse aid) can create sediment.

Powder

Usually the expiration date is indicated on the packaging, and this is often 12 months. But this only applies to those cases when the package was not opened. If it is opened, it is better to use the product within six months. Then the powder loses its cleaning properties.

If you do laundry rarely, do not buy large packs, even to save money.

Bleach and stain remover

Any such products, after opening the package, begin to lose their effectiveness, and after 6 months they will not be useful. A closed package can be stored for up to 1 year, but if you open it, try to use up the powder within six months.

In fact, even after the expiration date of these products has passed, they can still be used: they do not become toxic. But to achieve the desired results in whitening and stain removal, you may need a large amount.

Capsules

Due to the fact that these products are coated with a polyvinyl shell, they can be stored a little longer than powder. But they also spoil. The maximum period is one and a half years. But this is provided that the capsules are stored in a dry place, without high humidity.

Windshield wiper and polish

These surface cleaners must not be used after 2 years. They become ineffective, and the fragrance in the composition may deteriorate.In addition, if such products have been stored for too long, they can even damage mirrors and furniture (unremovable stains, streaks).

Dish detergent

Effective for 12–18 months. Then it loses its properties and becomes more watery and less soapy.

Folk remedies

Any cleaning products prepared according to the recipes of mothers and grandmothers also have their own shelf life.

Peroxide based

It is often used as a disinfectant. Can be used both separately and as part of other substances. But its storage should be strictly in a cool place. If the condition is violated, then the effectiveness of the solution simply disappears over time. The shelf life of the peroxide itself (if it has been opened) is from six months to a year. Unopened packaging is stored for up to 3 years.

With vinegar

One of the most effective substances, since it practically does not deteriorate and at the same time retains its cleaning properties for a long time. However, if you are preparing a composition that contains other ingredients in addition to vinegar, then it is better to make only as much as may be needed at one time. Then it is more advisable to prepare a new one. In its pure form, this product can be stored for many years.

Containing soda

There are legends about soda, namely about its shelf life. It is believed that it does not deteriorate at all and can be used forever. It's almost like that. After six months, it is better not to add soda to food, but it is quite suitable for cleaning.