How to Keep Track of Expiration Dates

3. Mouthwash

Expires In: 3 years Average Price: $2.94-$3.99* According to Colgate, mouthwash does go bad, especially if it is therapeutic (meaning that it is designed to reduce harmful bacteria and help with symptoms of dental diseases like dry mouth, plaque buildup, receding gums, and gingivitis). Most mouthwash has alcohol or some other type of antiseptic in it, along with a good deal of water.

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Mouthwash ©New Africa / Shutterstock If therapeutic, the mouthwash might lose its potency, rendering it useless. Even if you have regular antiseptic mouthwash, it might lose its bite and become no more than minty water if expired. Replace your mouthwash no more than three years after the manufacture date.

4. Disposable Razors

Ends After: 3 uses Average Cost: *$5.38–$12.99* This is unfortunate because disposable razors are not inexpensive at all, as everyone is aware. After three uses, disposable razors become faulty. The razors are dull and ineffective after three uses; they don't give you a close shave and even give you razor bumps and nicks. Throw them out after three usages.

Throwaway Razors ©Shutterstock/Gandolfo Cannatella What, then, makes disposable razors so costly? Brand loyalty is a contributing factor. According to CBS, once consumers choose a brand, they hardly ever change it. Businesses know that once customers are tied to a product, they will stick with it, so they may raise prices gradually.