Keeping your kitchen tools fresh and functional is key to maintaining a clean and efficient cooking space. Over time, even well-made items can wear down, lose effectiveness, or harbor germs that you don’t want near your food.
Replacing certain kitchen items every year helps ensure safety, hygiene, and better cooking results. Staying on top of this simple habit can save you time and avoid potential health risks without much effort.
Microplane Zester Grater
Your Microplane zester grater is a handy tool for adding zest and finely grated ingredients. Over time, the blades will dull, making it less effective and harder to use.
It’s a good idea to replace it every year if you use it often. This keeps your zest fresh and your grating effortless.
OXO Good Grips Silicone Spatula
You’ll find the OXO Good Grips Silicone Spatula handy for stirring, mixing, and scraping. Its flexible, polished edges help you get every bit of batter or sauce out of bowls.
Though durable, silicone spatulas like this one can wear down with heavy use, so replacing them yearly keeps your kitchen tools in good shape. It’s a reliable choice for many cooking tasks.
Joseph Joseph Cutting Board Set
You’ll appreciate the bright, color-coded boards in the Joseph Joseph set. Each board helps you avoid cross-contamination with clear icons and different colors.
The boards have a textured surface that’s gentle on your knives and non-slip feet for safety. They come in a slim storage case that keeps your kitchen tidy. With proper care, these boards can last well over a year, but replacing them yearly keeps your prep safe and fresh.
Rada Paring Knife
You should replace your Rada paring knife every year to keep it sharp and safe. These knives are great for peeling fruits and vegetables and can handle tougher tasks like trimming meat.
If yours feels dull or hard to control, it’s time for a new one. A fresh blade makes your prep work easier and more precise.
Zwilling J.A. Henckels Vegetable Peeler
You want a peeler that feels comfortable and works efficiently. The Zwilling J.A. Henckels vegetable peeler offers a sharp blade and a sturdy handle, making peeling easier and faster.
Its design gives you good control, reducing waste on fruits and vegetables. Replacing your peeler yearly keeps your prep smooth and safe.
Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponge
You should replace your Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Scrub Sponge every year to keep your kitchen clean and hygienic. These sponges are gentle enough for non-stick cookware but still effective on grease and grime. Over time, they can harbor bacteria and lose scrubbing power, so freshening up your sponge ensures better cleaning results.
Lodge Cast Iron Skillet (check seasoning)
You don’t always need to replace a Lodge cast iron skillet, but you should check the seasoning every year. Over time, seasoning can wear down, affecting your pan’s nonstick surface.
If food starts sticking or the pan looks dull, it’s time for a quick reseasoning. Use a thin layer of oil and heat it in the oven to restore the finish.
Rubbermaid Plastic Food Storage Containers
You rely on Rubbermaid containers to keep your food fresh and organized. Over time, plastic can stain, absorb odors, or weaken, so it’s a good idea to replace them every year for safety and freshness.
Choose BPA-free, airtight containers like the Rubbermaid Brilliance line to avoid leaks and keep your meals fresh. Regularly check for cracks or warping to protect your food quality.
ThermoPro Digital Food Thermometer
You should replace your ThermoPro digital food thermometer every year to ensure accurate readings. Over time, sensors can lose precision, which affects cooking results.
ThermoPro offers instant-read thermometers with helpful features like backlights and wireless options. Keeping your thermometer updated helps you cook safely and confidently every time.
Kenmore Refrigerator (10-20 years recommended)
Your Kenmore refrigerator can last between 10 and 20 years, depending on how well you maintain it. Keep an eye out for unusual noises or frequent repairs.
If your fridge is more than 10 years old and showing signs of wear, it might be time to think about replacing it. Upgrading can help improve energy efficiency and save you money on bills.
KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachments (rubber parts)
You should check the rubber parts on your KitchenAid stand mixer regularly. Rubber feet, for example, can wear out and cause the mixer to slip during use. Replacing them keeps your mixer stable and safe.
Over time, seals and gaskets may also degrade. Swapping these out helps maintain the mixer’s performance and prevents leaks. Replace these parts yearly to keep your mixer working smoothly.