Home living: 10 essential items Kenyans should replace at least once a year
From kitchen tools to bedroom essentials, items that seem harmless can accumulate bacteria, allergens, and wear that affect both health and home hygiene.
As the seasons change and the year comes to an end, it is high time we begin to take a closer look at everyday items and replace them, at least once a year.
From kitchen tools to bedroom essentials, items that seem harmless can accumulate bacteria, allergens, and wear that affect both health and home hygiene.
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“Many Kenyans don’t realise how quickly household items degrade or become unhygienic,” says Dr Emily Njoroge, a Nairobi-based public health specialist.
“Replacing certain items annually can make a big difference in health, comfort, and even energy efficiency.”
Here are 10 essential items Kenyan households should replace yearly:
Pillows
Pillows in Kenya are exposed to dust and humidity, which can breed dust mites and bacteria. Swapping pillows annually improves sleep quality and reduces allergy risks.
Mattress protectors
Even with a cover, mattresses in humid areas like Mombasa can collect sweat, dust, and allergens. Having an annual replacement keeps your bed hygienic.
Toothbrushes
The Kenya Dental Association advises replacing toothbrushes every 3–4 months, but at the very least, an annual refresh ensures effective cleaning and oral health.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
While less common in Kenyan homes, detectors in modern apartments and houses should be tested annually and replaced if old or faulty.
Vacuum cleaner bags and filters
With Nairobi’s dust, vacuum filters can clog quickly. Therefore, having an annual replacement keeps your home clean and the indoor air quality high.
Kitchen sponges
In Kenyan kitchens, sponges often harbour harmful bacteria. Swapping them every few weeks is ideal, but a thorough annual replacement prevents mould and germs.
Shower curtains and liners
High humidity in coastal regions makes mould common. Therefore, replacing shower curtains or liners annually helps keep bathrooms hygienic. And you feel good when you shower.
Toilet brush
Your toilet bowl brush should be replaced every 3 to 6 months in a year. If you still have a toilet brush from last year, then this is your sign to get a new one, to prevent the spread of bad bacteria and promote good hygiene.
Towels, bras, and underwear
Towels, bathrobes, bras, and underwear all accumulate sweat, bacteria, and oils over time. Even with regular washing, towels lose absorbency, and undergarments lose support and hygiene. Replacing them annually ensures comfort, freshness, and better hygiene for the whole family.
Kitchen mats, towels, and carpets
Kitchen mats and towels trap grease, food particles, and moisture, while carpets collect dust, allergens, and, in humid regions, mould.
Annual replacement keeps your home hygienic, reduces odours, and maintains a fresh, safe environment for everyone. Replacing worn household items is not just about hygiene; it is about comfort and well-being. For Kenyans juggling busy lives, it is a simple step that makes a huge difference.
As the new year approaches, experts recommend adding these replacements to your annual checklist. Small, simple updates can improve health, comfort, and the overall atmosphere of your home.
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