How to Properly Store Your Toothbrush and Keep It Clean
We all have something we rely on every day: our toothbrush! Whether it’s an electric toothbrush or a manual one, it plays an integral role in keeping our mouths clean and healthy. For most of us, we take our toothbrushes and toothpaste for granted—it’s just something that takes up space on the countertop in our bathrooms.
But have you ever stopped to think about how much bacteria can end up on your beloved brush? We use it multiple times a day without giving much thought to where we store it afterwards, but the truth is that proper storage of your toothbrush can make all the difference when it comes to prolonging its life and keeping away those nasty bacteria.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some ways to properly store your toothbrush and keep it clean so you can get maximum value out of it.
Store your toothbrush in an upright position and allow it to air dry
It might seem like a small task, but it’s nothing to take lightly. Toothbrushes can become quick breeding grounds for bacteria and germs if not stored cleanly. By positioning the brush head-up, you can help keep the bristles clean and dry for the next use.
Air drying also plays a vital role in keeping the brush clean and uncontaminated. After using your toothbrush, be sure to rinse it thoroughly, shake out any excess water, and store it in a place where air can circulate freely. Doing this small step regularly will ensure that you’re brushing with a clean toothbrush every time.
Keep the toothbrush away from the toilet
Toilets, when flushed, can spray water particles into the air. Those particles contain bacteria from human waste, some of which can make you sick if it comes in contact with your mouth.
Keeping your toothbrush at least six feet away from the toilet helps ensure clean, fresh bristles so you don’t have to worry about germs or contaminants getting into your body.
Investing in a toothbrush rack for each family member isn’t a bad idea either, as this will keep fingers (which also contain bacteria) away from clean brushes.
Clean the toothbrush holder regularly
Toothbrushes are often kept in a holder that can often be damp and warm, which is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. By cleaning the toothbrush holder regularly, you can help prevent the growth of bacteria and keep your toothbrush clean. This is especially important if multiple people are using the same holder, as it can help prevent the spread of illness.
Here are some steps you can follow to clean a toothbrush holder:
- Remove all toothbrushes from the holder.
- Rinse the holder thoroughly with warm water to remove any visible dirt or debris.
- Mix equal parts water and vinegar in a small bowl. Dip a cloth or sponge into the mixture and use it to scrub the inside and outside of the holder.
- Rinse the holder again with warm water to remove the vinegar.
- Dry the holder thoroughly with a clean towel or allow it to air dry.
You can also use a toothbrush holder with antimicrobial properties to help reduce the growth of bacteria. Some toothbrush holders are designed to be dishwasher safe, so you can also consider cleaning it in the dishwasher. Just be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before doing so.
Sanitize your toothbrush on a regular basis
Our mouths can easily become a breeding ground for bacteria, and when it accumulates in our toothbrushes, they can transfer harmful germs back inside the mouth, leading to bad breath and potential long-term health risks. Sanitizing your brush by washing it with hot water can help kill off any lingering bacteria and ensure that you have a clean toothbrush.
To sanitize your toothbrush using hydrogen peroxide:
- Fill a small glass or cup with 3% hydrogen peroxide.
- Soak the toothbrush in the hydrogen peroxide for about 5 minutes.
- Rinse the toothbrush thoroughly with water.
- Allow the toothbrush to air dry or pat it dry with a clean towel.
For an electric toothbrush, you can clean the head the same way as a regular toothbrush, but make sure to remove the base beforehand.
It’s important to note that these methods are meant to help sanitize your toothbrush, but they may not completely kill all bacteria. It’s still important to replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.
Read also: Toothbrush Convenience and Cleanliness
Overall, taking the extra measures to store a toothbrush properly and keep it clean is an essential part of maintaining a healthy smile. By using proper storage solutions and following the tips discussed in this blog post, you can effectively prevent your toothbrushes from harboring bacteria or being contaminated.
However, the above steps shouldn’t replace proper oral care, such as regular teeth cleanings and checkups with your local dentist. If you are looking for an experienced dentist in Lafayette, LA, then look no further because Maestri Family Dental has got everything you need.
We have top-of-the-line equipment and highly skilled dental professionals so you never have to worry about leaving your teeth’s health in question while receiving the care they deserve. Schedule an appointment with us today and begin your journey towards a healthier and brighter smile!
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