Do you think your bathroom medicine cabinet is the perfect spot for your pills? Think again. Despite the name, it’s one of the worst places to store medication. The steam from showers and inconsistent temperatures can cause your medications to degrade faster than you think, sometimes even before the expiration date is reached.
That’s right: expired medications aren’t just ineffective—they could be dangerous. According to pharmacist Stacia Woodcock, expiration dates are there for a reason. They’re backed by clinical studies to guarantee safety and potency. Take an expired inhaler during an asthma attack? You might not get the dose you need.
And it’s not just prescriptions. Even everyday items like ibuprofen, eye drops, or antibiotics can break down over time, especially in the wrong storage conditions. Liquid meds, in particular, are prone to bacterial contamination. When in doubt, toss it out.
But don’t just flush old pills. The FDA has a flush list for certain meds, but most should be dropped off at a pharmacy take-back bin or mixed with kitty litter and tossed in the trash (after peeling off your label, of course).
Want to avoid the drama altogether? Store your medications in a cool, dry, and dark place—such as a kitchen cabinet or pantry —far from heat and humidity. And if something looks, smells, or feels off, trust your instincts and don’t take it.
While you’re clearing the clutter, consider restocking your essentials: a first aid kit, cold medicine, pain relievers, and any life-saving medications, such as EpiPens or inhalers.
