Why You Need To Spring Clean Your Medicine Cabinet
When was the last time you sorted through your medicine cabinet? If it's the Bermuda Triangle of your bathroom, a place that's sucked in old prescriptions, expired painkillers, and curious tinctures, then it's time for a clean up.
Here we explain why it’s crucial to declutter that mini pharmacy of yours (before it becomes a science experiment):
Medicine Cabinet Makeover
1. Meds Past Their Use By Date
Medications come with an expiration date for a reason. Taking expired pills isn’t just ineffective, it’s like drinking 5-day-old milk and hoping for the best. Over time, the chemical makeup of drugs changes, so it's safer for liquid medications, antibiotics, and pain relievers to be in date.
2. Prevent An “Oops, That Was The Wrong Pill” Moment
A messy medicine cabinet is a recipe for disaster. If your labels have rubbed off, you can't be sure of the contents and you’re asking for trouble - so ditch any bottles that don't clearly explain what's inside.
3. Keep Meds Away from Nosy Visitors and Tiny Humans
Prescription medications, especially painkillers and sedatives, should be carefully stored, in a cool, dry place that's preferably locked. Toddlers (or even guests) might become curious about your medicine cabinet, so regularly checking your stash keeps everyone in the household safe.
4. Make Room for the Good Stuff (Like Plasters and Thermometers)
If your medicine cabinet is stuffed to the brim, chances are when you actually need something you won’t find it. Cleaning things out ensures that your essentials are easily accessible.
How To Clean Out Your Medicine Cabinet
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Check Expiration Dates – If it's past it, toss it.
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Properly Dispose of Medications – Don't flush them, bin them.
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Ditch the Mystery Pills – If you don’t remember what it is, don't eat it.
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Store Medications Correctly – Avoid confusion by storing them in their original containers.
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Childproof Your Cabinet – Keep well out of reach of curious kids.
And What Are The Medicine Cabinet Essentials?
- Bandages: if you've fractured, sprained or injured a limb, a bandage applies helpful pressure before any necessary hospital visit.
- Medical tape: helpful to splint two fingers together, but also to keep bandages in place.
- Plasters: choose waterproof, and have a range of sizes on hand.
- Thermometer: invest in a good digital thermometer as it's an accurate indication of temperature when placed in the mouth. You can put it under the arm to get a reading for your baby.
- Antiseptic: clean cuts immediately prior to dressing them with bandages or plasters. Wipes are a good choice to keep on hand for cuts.
- Eyewash solution: useful in case any grit or dirt gets into the delicate eye area.
- Sterile dressings: if there's a bigger injury, a sterile dressing can help prevent infection until one reaches hospital.
- Tweezers: quality tweezers can help remove splinters.
Lactoferrin
This powerhouse of a protein is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic (the list continues...) which makes it a contender as a must-have in your medicine cabinet. Yes, your body makes Lactoferrin daily, but if you're not feeling well, then supplementing with extra Lactoferrin kicks your recovery up a gear as it calls immune cells into action and powers beneficial bacteria to get you back on track. That's why Lactoferrin is the hero ingredient of our chewable Leapfrog IMMUNE.
Pain Relief
Common over-the-counter painkillers—such as aspirin, paracetamol, and ibuprofen—are very effective at alleviating minor aches and pains, including headaches and period discomfort (though it’s important to note that aspirin isn't given to children under the age of 16). These can also help with fever and body aches, and to reduce inflammation in conditions like arthritis and sprains.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are beneficial for treating allergic reactions and soothing insect bites. They are particularly useful for hay fever and can be found in both topical forms, such as creams that are applied directly to the skin, and oral forms, which are taken as tablets. Topical antihistamines can relieve itching and irritation from insect stings or contact with plants like stinging nettles, while oral antihistamines help control hay fever symptoms and mild food allergies, and can even reduce itchiness during chickenpox. Some formulations may cause drowsiness, so it’s wise to ask your pharmacist if a non-drowsy option is available.
Oral Rehydration Salts
When you experience fever, diarrhoea, or vomiting, your body loses water and vital minerals, potentially leading to dehydration. Oral rehydration salts help restore the natural balance of fluids and minerals, alleviating discomfort and fatigue. While they support recovery by replenishing lost nutrients, they don't address the underlying causes, such as a viral or bacterial infection - if you're concerned, contact your GP or pharmacist.
Anti-Diarrhoea Tablets
Diarrhoea can occur suddenly due to causes like food poisoning or stomach viruses. It’s practical to have an anti-diarrhoeal medication at home, as it can quickly control the uncomfortable symptoms. However, these medications should not be given to children under 12 due to potential side effects, so consult your GP or pharmacist if a child is affected.
Indigestion Treatment
For relief from stomach aches, heartburn, or trapped wind, a simple antacid can neutralise stomach acid and soothe symptoms. Antacids are available in various forms, including chewable tablets, dissolvable tablets, or liquid solutions.
Sunscreen
We recommend using sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 year-round, as even brief sun exposure can lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer. Ensure that your sunscreen offers UVA protection for comprehensive coverage. Additionally, wearing a hat and sunglasses, and avoiding the sun during its peak hours (between 11am and 3pm in the summer), can further safeguard your skin. And remember: sunscreen expires too - and its efficacy declines - so like everything in your cabinet, make sure its in date!
