Robyn's Nest - The Parenting Network Title

The Family Medicine Chest - Update

What do you see when you open your medicine cabinet? Years of tubes, bottles, liquids that are now solids, black stuff that used to be yellow? And by the way, how long has that hemorrhoid cream been in there? I don't think I want to know! Eww, what IS that?

Try these quick and easy tips to keep your medicine cabinet safe and up-to-date.

1. Empty the entire contents onto a surface (like say…the floor).

2. Get rid of all items that have passed their expiration date and/or changed color, ointments that have separated or discolored, and hydrogen peroxide that no longer bubbles when applied.. No, they are not safe to use after 3 years!

3. Flush unused pills and liquids down the toilet. Trash the rest, but remove trash to a safe place where kids and pets aren't tempted.

4. Determine what you need and what you no longer need. If your child had an allergic reaction to that bottle of amoxicillin, don't save it for another child to save money. It's likely the dose won't be the same anyway. If you're past menopause, chances are you can safety get rid of "the pill".

5. "Keep out of Reach of Children"…literally!
If you have children or grandchildren who visit or live with you, you must lock up your medicines. Try adding a simple latch or eye and hook at the top of your linen closet well out of reach. Or place medicines in the master bathroom (if you have one) and keep the door locked.

6. Replacement Toothbrushes: Keeping extra brush heads or toothbrushes is a convenient way to keep healthy! Get a new toothbrush after a bout with a viral illness or strep throat to prevent the spread of germs. Of course, this logic only works if you don't spit on one another's tooth brushes while sharing a single sink!

7. Stock up: Cough syrup, antibacterial or antiseptic cleansing agent, antihistamine, rubbing alcohol, bandages, thermometer, surgical tape and gauze, topical antibiotic ointment, pain reliever, etc

8. Store other chemicals in your medicine cabinet too. Why waste the lock? Nail polish remover, cleaning products, hair coloring, hair sprays, etc. You've just childproofed your home, well…almost.

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