Why do toothbrush holders get dirty?

When you stow your toothbrush in the holder after brushing, the head is usually still wet. That liquid drips down the handle — collecting germs as it goes — and slowly pools in the bottom of the cup where your toothbrush hangs out. Additionally, bathrooms are notoriously steamy.

What is the most sanitary way to store toothbrush?

Clean your toothbrush holder frequently Remember keeping your toothbrush clean helps your oral care as well. The most sanitary way to store your toothbrush is to keep the toothbrush in a clean holder where airflow can dry the toothbrush. Yet, it won’t be contaminated by bathroom germs.

How often should you change your toothbrush holder?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), you should replace your toothbrush (or your brush head, if you’re using an electric toothbrush) every 12 to 16 weeks, or three to four months.

How do you keep a toothbrush cup from molding?

Ways to Prevent Mold From Forming On Your Toothbrush

1. Thoroughly Rinse Your Toothbrush After Each Use.
2. Thoroughly Remove Water From Your Toothbrush After Each Use.
3. Don’t Store Your Toothbrush in a Cup.
4. Make Sure Your Toothbrush Receives Proper Airflow in Storage.
5. Disinfect Your Toothbrush With Anti-Bacterial Mouthwash.

How do you keep your toothbrush germ free?

Storing your toothbrush correctly is probably as important as cleaning it after use.

1. Store it in hydrogen peroxide solution that’s changed daily.
2. Avoid storing toothbrushes side by side.
3. Keep it as far away from the toilet as possible.
4. Clean toothbrush covers and holder.
5. Use a toothpaste dispenser.

Is it bad to keep your toothbrush in the bathroom?

But chances are you’ve continued to leave your toothbrush in the bathroom. “In order for this to be a problem, the bacteria in the bathroom would have to be airborne. Bacteria found in urine and stool are not. So unless you’re scrubbing your toilet bowl with your toothbrush, you’re safe,” says Lowenberg.

Is it bad to cover your toothbrush?

Sterilizing or disinfecting, on the other hand, does eliminate all bacteria on your brush. And while a toothbrush cover may help protect your toothbrush from outside germs, it traps in moisture, leading to bacteria growth and not the good kind, according to the ADA. So — remove and throw away those covers.

Should you put a cap on your toothbrush?

1. Even though it may seem more hygienic (and maybe even a bit more civilized) to slide a nice little cover on your toothbrush after brushing your teeth, it actually is not a healthy practice. Moisture gets trapped within the toothbrush cap, keeps your toothbrush bristles from drying out and promotes bacterial growth.

Should you dry your toothbrush after use?

Though it may seem counterintuitive, you should always keep your toothbrush dry. If moisture stays on the brush, it can encourage bacteria growth. If you use a bacteria-ridden toothbrush to clean your teeth, you increase your risk for developing dental problems.

How long does coronavirus live toothbrush?

After using your toothbrush, wipe the handle with a safe disinfectant. According to the National Institutes of Health, the coronavirus can live for 2 to 3 days on plastic, and it is possible to get the virus from touching contaminated surfaces.

Should I change my toothbrush after a cold?

Always replace your toothbrush after a cold or other illness to prevent contamination. If you or someone else in your family is sick, that person should use a different tube of toothpaste (travel size, for example), to prevent spreading germs to other toothbrushes.

Can mold grow on toothbrushes?

Don’t. The toothbrush can’t dry out between brushing, which encourages mold growth. Also, if you store all the family toothbrushes together in one container, the bacteria can spread from one to the other if the heads are touching.

What is the white stuff on my toothbrush?

The accumulated water and protein-laden water drips down and there are enough nutrients in that water to allow bacteria and mold to grow [sic]. Which all sounds about right: Gunk and mold thrive wherever water sits stagnant—say, the base of the toothbrush, or where the head is attached.

How do I get the black stuff off my toothbrush?

Soak the brush head. Make either a peroxide, vinegar, or bleach solution and submerge your brush head in it. This can not only remove and kill mold, but also any lingering bacteria that could infect your oral cavity. Wipe the base of the head before soaking it to help the solution more effectively remove other gunk.

How do I get black mold off my toothbrush?

Stir together a mixture of 50/50 baking soda and water until it forms a paste. This concoction is best used to remove lighter mold stains and prevent future growth. After applying it to the problem area, use a small brush to scrape away any mold-stained spots.