Spring is here, and there’s no better time to organize your medicine cabinet so it’s safe and ready for whenever you need it next.
Doing so does more than bring mental relief and order, it’s also an important way to check in and ensure all the medication you have on hand is safe and usable. Making space for what matters doesn’t take long, ensuring your medication is quick and easy to find rather than a cluttered mess.
If you come across old medication while cleaning and are unsure about what to do with it, feel free to visit or contact us to ensure everything you have on hand is still safe to use.
Remove Medication and Check Expiration Dates
The best way to begin the spring clean of your medicine cabinet is to have a clear space, like a table nearby, and transfer everything from the cabinet there. While the cabinet is empty, give the surfaces a quick cleaning of any dust or build-up that might have occurred.
Then, turn to the medication on the table and inspect the expiration date on the label or packaging. Those past the date should be set aside and not returned to the cabinet.
These medications have likely lost some of their potency, and it’s best to bring them to one of our locations for safe, environmentally-friendly disposal. Additionally the DEA has a location locator of where to drop off your old medication safely.
Group Remaining Medication by Category
With all the remaining medication still on the table, take some time to group them together by category so they are easier to find later. Some suggested categories for medication are:
- Pain relievers
- Allergy medication
- Cold and Flu treatment
- Digestive aids
- First-aid supply
- Condition-specific medication
By organizing them this way, and maintaining the organization within the cabinet’s shelves, the chances of accidentally using the incorrect medication drops dramatically.
Safe Medication Storage Tips
Almost all medications should remain in their original containers and within a cool, dry, and secure location.
Medication should be stored away from moisture, so home areas like kitchens and especially bathrooms are usually not the best place to store medication. Heat, humidity, and light can all degrade medication over time, so choosing a stable environment helps preserve both potency and safety.
If you have pets or children in the house, it’s helpful to have this place be out of reach for them, within a locked drawer, cabinet, or on a high shelf in an area not frequented by them.
A Clean Start for Spring
A well-organized cabinet isn’t just for tidiness, but a small step that can potentially make a big difference in daily life. An annual review and cleaning of your medication cabinet reduces misuse risk and ensures you have what you need when you need it.
When in doubt about what to keep, discard, or replace, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions, as our staff is here to help ensure you stay safe, informed, and stocked with all the medication you might need.
