Mouthwash expiring

[ktheodos]

Is it okay to use after the expiration date? Thoughts/experiences on this?

[lvstephanie]

I couldn't really say since I don't know what about them make them expire. However, most mouthwashes are mostly alcohol with other stuff added to them, and since alcohol doesn't spoil, I would think it'd be ok. The expiration may be due to a non-health related issue and not because it is unhealthy to consume after that date. For example, soda pop have expiration dates on them even though they are usually safe to consume after such a date; the expiration dates on pop is due more to changes in taste and / or color. Similarly, I could see mouthwash expiring because its color may fade or the taste may change over time. But it could also be due to the packaging; the plastic bottle may deteriorate over time (esp. when sitting in the mouthwash) making the mouthwash unsafe to consume (like you shouldn't drink water sitting in a plastic bottle for extended period of time). There is sometimes a number on the back (near the ingredient list) that you can call about questions such as this.

[masked_brown_guy]

Go get new mouth wash maybe?

[countrygirl12]

It shouldn't hurt anything.  I have used it past the exp date.  As long as it still tastes okay you are good.

[Forp]

If in doubt throw it out

[makeblessed]

I've never paid attention to the expiration date, I guess we use so much in my house it would be hard to expire, but if you have doubt it is probably best to just throw it out; better safe then sorry.

[Cbsteffen]

Try it once. If it tastes really bad, you should probably throw it away.

[ktheodos]

Good points so far....thanks...normally I would just throw it out, but it's a HUGE jar so I feel bad wasting it if it's still okay...I think the points about the plastic are good

[oldbuddy]

My Gosh, it's only like three bucks so why take a chance? Get a new bottle and this time use it.

[linderlizzie]

Most items have expiration dates that are well before they actually expire. I say throw caution to the wind and use it already. The probability of adverse effects are rather slim.

And you're right about the alcohol. It's a preservative.

[mrisha]

Why would anyone have mouth wash after the expiration date?  In fact I never even knew there was an expiration date on mouth wash.  I don't use mouthwash that has alcohol, but never thought of it expiring.  Strange Question!!!!

[alina6]

I have never looked specifically at mouthwash but if it has been open then I would use it. If it weren't open then you could probably use it but I wouldn't let it sit around for too long.

[Gerianne]

gargling with a bit of Himalayan salt and water helps the mouth health. (health of the mouth)

[sdenimandlace1]

You could always use it to soak your feet to get ready of dead skin and then get new to gargle with.

[6265AT99]

I would think it doesn't make a difference cause I believe alcohol (the main ingredient) doesn't expire!