Keeping toothbrushes clean is essential for proper oral hygiene. Many people clean them thoroughly using disinfectants, but in reality it is not necessary. Instead, what you need to do is rinse the toothbrush before and after each use. If you decide to use a disinfectant, choose a specific one approved by competent authorities. Make sure you store your toothbrush properly to keep it in good condition at all times.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Regularly Clean the Toothbrush
Step 1. Rinse your toothbrush under running water before brushing and afterwards
This will help you remove all toothpaste residue and kill bacteria. It is not necessary to disinfect it every time. Just open the tap and rinse it for a few seconds under running water. Before brushing your teeth again, be sure to get rid of old toothpaste residue.
The toothbrush can be washed in both hot and cold water. Hot water softens the bristles, making them more delicate when brushing your teeth
Step 2. Clean the brush handle once a month
Toothpaste residues and dirt can accumulate on the handle. If you wish, you can clean it about once a month. Make a solution of one part bleach and 10 parts water. Alternatively, use a chlorhexidine-based mouthwash. Apply the mixture to the handle with a clean cloth.
Some people recommend disinfecting the entire toothbrush using the bleach and water solution. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention do not recommend soaking the entire toothbrush in disinfectant, as this can damage it. Use this product on the handle only
Step 3. Limit the use of disinfectants
It is not a problem to remove dirt residues from the handle, but regularly using disinfectants can be harmful, not to mention that it could cause the onset of allergies to the skin or mucous membranes if the active ingredient is excessively concentrated. It is not necessary to store the toothbrush in a disinfectant solution. For regular and safe cleaning, tap water is enough and left over.
Step 4. Select toothbrush cleaners approved by law enforcement authorities
If you want to use a disinfectant solution, choose one that has been tested by licensed agencies to make sure it is safe. To disinfect a toothbrush, opt for a purchased product rather than a homemade one.
However, in most cases it is not necessary to disinfect the bristles of a toothbrush. If it has been contaminated, it is better to buy a new one than to try to disinfect the old one
Part 2 of 3: Keeping the Toothbrush Clean
Step 1. Do not store toothbrushes in closed containers
Many people think it is best to protect them from contaminants circulating in the bathroom, so they use closed containers. However, toothbrushes need to air dry, as oxygen is very effective in killing bacteria. A wet toothbrush is a breeding ground for bacterial growth. To keep it clean, store it in an open container.
Make sure you keep it in a protected area, such as a tall piece of furniture, to make sure it doesn't fall to the ground
Step 2. Let it air dry after each use
It is not necessary to dry the toothbrush after using it. If you like, you can quickly shake it a couple of times to get rid of excess water. However, no further action is required. You can simply put it back in its normal container after rinsing it.
Step 3. Store your toothbrush upright
Toothbrushes should always be stored this way to facilitate drying and protect them from airborne contaminants. In the bathroom you should have a specific glass for storing toothbrushes.
- You can also use a suction cup toothbrush holder to attach to the mirror.
- If you need to store multiple toothbrushes in the same container, make sure they don't come into contact with each other.
Part 3 of 3: Mistakes to Avoid
Step 1. Throw away the old toothbrushes
The toothbrush generally needs to be replaced every two to three months. While paying it due attention, it wears out over time. After two or three months, throw it away and buy a new one.
Step 2. Don't share your toothbrush
You should always have a personal one. Never share it with another person, as you risk the spread of diseases, viruses and bacteria.
Step 3. Throw away the contaminated toothbrushes
Accidents happen. Sometimes you drop your toothbrush on the floor, in the sink or in the toilet. Disinfecting it is difficult and can do more harm than good. If it gets dirty, throw it away and buy another one. It is much safer to do this than to try to disinfect it.
