What’s in your medicine cabinet? Safe storage and expiration checks

January 29, 2026 / Pharmacy / 6-minute read

When was the last time you looked closely at what’s actually in your medicine cabinet?

Most of us don’t think much about medications once they’re stored away—until we’re sick, in pain, or helping a family member in need. But expired medications, improper storage, or leftover prescriptions can increase the risk of side effects, reduced effectiveness, or accidental misuse.

A quick medicine cabinet check—just once or twice a year—can help keep you and your family safer.

Why safe medication storage matters

Medications are powerful tools when used correctly—but they need a little care to stay effective and safe.

Improper storage or expired medications can lead to:

Reduced effectiveness (the medicine may not work as intended)
Increased side effects
Accidental ingestion by children, pets, or visitors
Confusion that leads to taking the wrong medication or dose

A few simple habits can go a long way in protecting your household.

Where medications should (and shouldn’t) be stored

Surprisingly, the bathroom medicine cabinet often isn’t the best place for medications.

Avoid storing medications in:

Bathrooms (heat and humidity can break them down)
Near sinks or windows
Cars, garages, or anywhere with temperature swings

Better storage options include:

A cool, dry drawer or cabinet
A locked container if children or pets are in the home
Original containers with labels intact

If a medication needs refrigeration, follow the label instructions and keep it clearly separated from food.

” Medications are most effective—and safest—when they’re stored properly and used as directed. A quick review of what’s in your medicine cabinet can prevent accidental misuse and help ensure your medications work when you need them most. “

Kati Dvorak, PharmD, BCACP
Welia Health Pharmacist

How often should you check expiration dates?

A good rule of thumb is to check medications once or twice a year—and anytime someone in your household has a change in health, medications, or providers.

When reviewing medications:

Check expiration dates carefully
Look for changes in color, smell, or texture
Dispose of anything that is expired or no longer needed
Be especially cautious with liquids, eye drops, and injectable medications, which often expire sooner

If you’re unsure whether a medication is still safe to use, your pharmacist can help.

What to do with leftover or expired medications

Never flush medications down the toilet unless the label specifically instructs you to do so.

Safe disposal options include:

Medication take-back events
Local drop boxes (often available at pharmacies or law enforcement offices)
Searching drop-off locations throughout Minnesota
Following FDA-approved disposal instructions when take-back options aren’t available

You can also dive deeper by watching this video from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or by reading a previous post, Safe Disposal of Medications and Sharps.

If you’re not sure where to dispose of medications locally, the Welia Health pharmacy team can point you in the right direction.

A note about sharing medications

Even if symptoms seem similar, medications should never be shared. What’s safe for one person may not be safe for another—especially with differences in age, allergies, or other health conditions.

Keeping medications clearly labeled and properly stored helps prevent mix-ups.