5 Things You Should Replace Before Your Significant Other Moves In

Now that you have decided to take the next step of moving in together, you may want to consider ridding yourself of those worn-out or ancient items you have been holding on to. What should you consider replacing or eliminating when you are about to start anew?

Your Toothbrush

Before your special someone places his/her toothbrush in the drawer, you may want to think about purchasing yourself a new one. If the bristles on your brush look frayed, it is time for a replacement. This is true whether you are using a manual toothbrush or an electric toothbrush. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing your toothbrush at least every three to four months.

If you are heading for holy matrimony, you want your teeth to sparkle when you say ‘I do’ and have fresh breath as you enjoy your first post-marriage kiss. If your worn-out toothbrush isn't doing the job, you may just end up with a kiss on the cheek.

Photos of Past Romantic Relationships

The last thing your special someone wants to see early on in your serious relationship is pictures of you with your past love. This is not to say that you should burn them in the fireplace, just put the photos in a box and store them. These pictures are part of your past and chances are that at some point in your life you will want to reflect on them. Once you and your significant other have been together for some time, he/she may want to look at them with you.

Tattered Linens

If you have been using the same linens for years, they are probably showing some wear. Consider replacing your bath towels, wash cloths and bedding. Stained and tattered linens take away from that clean, fresh feeling after a shower and worn bedding does not contribute to a romantic environment whatsoever.

Your Mattress

A nice comfortable mattress can make an enormous difference in the way you feel upon waking. An uncomfortable mattress can force you to sleep elsewhere. If you have been ‘sleeping alone’ you probably take advantage of and use the entire bed. This generally places you in the middle, which can cause an indentation. This indentation will not offer the support necessary for the spine, most likely causing unnecessary discomfort.

Start your live-in relationship right and avoid the cranky morning syndrome by replacing your mattress before he/she moves in. Macys.com memory foam mattresses, or even traditional coil-spring mattresses come in full, King or Queen sizes from less than $500 to more than $5000.

Romantic Items from Past Relationships

Romantic items include anything from a heart-shaped crystal trinket that reads ‘I love you’ to previously worn lingerie. Put them away, especially if they are in your sanctuary, the bedroom. Again, you do not necessarily have to give them to the nearest Goodwill, if you are interested in keeping particular items, just store them.

Lauren Johnson

Lauren is a homemaker who volunteers for the Susan G. Komen foundation. She hopes her efforts will help her loved ones do everything they can to prevent breast cancer.