How to store your toothbrush properly

Storing your toothbrush improperly can turn it into a breeding ground for bacteria, viruses, mold… posing many risks to your oral health and your health overall. To keep your toothbrush clean and safe to use, follow these toothbrush storage guidelines:

• Do not share toothbrushes.
• Rinse your toothbrush with warm water for a few seconds before use.
• After use, rinse the toothbrush thoroughly and shake off the water. Then keep it in a dry place at a 45-degree angle so that trapped water drains out easily and the brush dries faster. Avoid leaving toothbrushes in damp places such as the bathroom, and keep toothbrush heads from touching each other.
• Don't regularly keep a wet toothbrush in a closed case; a closed, damp environment helps bacteria grow faster.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles look frayed, worn or splayed out to the sides. Using one toothbrush for too long reduces its cleaning effectiveness. The bristles will have a harder time getting between teeth to remove plaque. On top of that, the longer a toothbrush is used, the more bacteria grow in it. A toothbrush should also be replaced after you have been ill, since germs left on it can cause reinfection.

Toothbrush cleaning methods can also be used to help remove germs from the brush. One of the most effective is to add a spoonful of hydrogen peroxide to a cup of water and soak the toothbrush for at least 30 seconds, then rinse it thoroughly with hot water before use. If you don't have hydrogen peroxide, an antibacterial mouthwash can be used instead. Another method is to soak the toothbrush in diluted vinegar, which helps kill most bacteria and other germs on the brush. Boiling water also helps clean a toothbrush, and it's very simple: just soak the toothbrush in a cup of boiled water for 3 to 5 minutes. However, even if you store your toothbrush properly and clean it regularly, it still needs to be replaced every 3-4 months. Don't choose an overly expensive toothbrush; pick a suitable one at a reasonable price so you can replace it regularly.

A toothbrush is an extremely important item in everyday life. Choosing a suitable toothbrush and storing it properly is also how you protect your own health.

Source: BSVM