How to Sanitize a Toothbrush

It is important to clean your toothbrush regularly to prevent the growth and spread of bacteria, germs and viruses. Studies show that some microorganisms can grow on toothbrushes after use. There are some things you can do to reduce these levels of bacteria growth. The following steps will show you how to sanitize your toothbrush.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Toothbrush
• Mouthwash
• Antibacterial soap
• Boiling water
• Dishwasher
• Dishwasher soap with bleach
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Toothbrush sanitizer machine

1. Rinse your brush every time you use it. Poor a little mouthwash on the brush to kill the germs, then rinse it well with water to remove all the toothpaste and debris. Soak your brush for about five minutes once a week in mouthwash to sanitize the brush of germs and bacteria.

2. Wash your brush with antibacterial soap regularly and rinse well to remove all traces of soap.

3. Boil your toothbrush for about five minutes, which will kill most bacteria, however it can wear out your toothbrush faster. This is the better alternative for babies and small children instead of using chemicals to sanitize the toothbrush.

4. Put your toothbrush in the dishwasher and use dishwashing soap with bleach. The high heat in the washer, along with the heavy duty soap, will thoroughly clean your toothbrush. But just like boiling, the bristles will wear out faster.

5. Soak your toothbrush in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and 97 percent water at least once a week to kill bacteria, or after every brushing when you are sick to prevent the spreading of germs and bacteria.

6. Use toothbrush sanitizer machines. Some use ultraviolet sterilizing lamps to sanitize the toothbrush, killing harmful bacteria and viruses. Others use steam and dry heat. Look for products that are approved and regulated by the FDA to ensure that you get an effective machine.

Tips & Warnings

• Regular cleaning can wear out a toothbrush faster and a toothbrush loses its effectiveness as it wears. Because of this the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you replace your toothbrush once every three to four months or as soon as bristles become frayed. Children's brushes should be replaced more frequently.
• Store your toothbrushes in an upright position and don't let toothbrushes touch one another to prevent the passing of germs and bacteria from one person to another.
• Don't store your toothbrush in a closed container. A moist, closed environment promotes the growth of bacteria.

Resources

• American Dental Association website
• Toothbrush sanitizer regulated by the FDA

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[dfernando]

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