Toothbrush storage is important. Your toothbrush should be stored in an area that’s out of reach of young children, pets, and anyone else who could put it or its bristles in their mouth. This may sound like common sense, but there are many places in your home that can jeopardize your oral health if you store your toothbrush there. By following these dos and don’ts, you can prevent toothbrush-related problems from ever happening to you or anyone else in your household. Remember to replace your toothbrush every three months to ensure the most effective oral care possible!
Toothbrush Storage On the Bathroom Counter
The bathroom counter is one of the best places to store your toothbrush. It’s out of the way of busy areas in your home, like the kitchen, and it’s easy to keep clean. Plus, you’re less likely to forget to brush your teeth if your toothbrush is in plain sight. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when storing your toothbrush on the bathroom counter. First, make sure the counter is clean before setting your toothbrush down.
DO think about getting a toothbrush holder. There are many different styles available, including ones that will hang on your bathroom mirror or stand alone on your counter. The main goal is that your brush can air dry, and water will drip down, away from the bristles.
If you’re using a toothbrush holder DON’T allow different people’s toothbrushes to touch one another. Doing so is a great way to spread bacteria and keep your brush from properly drying.
Inside a Medicine Cabinet
Putting your toothbrush inside a medicine cabinet might seem like a good idea if you’re short on space, but it’s not the best place. The door seals shut when closed, trapping humidity inside that can cause bacteria to grow on your toothbrush. A safer bet is to store it in an upright position away from anything wet such as shaving cream or cleansers that could splash onto it. If there isn’t room near the sink, DO allow your brush to air dry before you put it in the medicine cabinet.
In the Bathroom Drawer
Like a medicine cabinet, it might seem like the bathroom drawer is the obvious choice for toothbrush storage, but it isn’t. The warm, moist environment is ideal for bacteria growth, and your toothbrush can become contaminated by other items in the drawer. Plus, your toothbrush won’t be able to air out and dry properly if it’s constantly stored in a closed drawer. If you have zero counter space DO allow your brush to dry somewhere, and DO put a cover over it before storing it in the drawer.
In Your Bag, Car, or Desk Drawer
When it comes to storing your toothbrush, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, DO always use a cover for your toothbrush if it’s in your purse, desk, or car. This will help keep it clean and protected from outside germs. But DON’T use this as your primary toothbrush. You need your brush to fully dry out, so having a secondary brush in your purse or desk is fine, but if it’s the only one you’re using there will likely be increased moisture and bacteria since it is always stored in a case.
If You’re Traveling
Whenever you’re traveling, DO take measures to protect your toothbrush. Bacteria can easily grow on toothbrushes, so it’s important to store them in a clean, dry place. The best way to do this is to use a protective case in your suitcase or toiletry bag. But DO take your brush out of the case and allow it to air dry between uses wherever you’re visiting.
Close to the Toilet
DON’T store your toothbrush anywhere near the toilet. That’s because toilets are full of bacteria, and you don’t want those germs anywhere near your toothbrush. In fact, it’s best to keep your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible. If your bathroom is small and storage is limited, DO put the toilet sit down before flushing and DO put a cover on your toothbrush when it’s dry, between uses. DO disinfect your toothbrush regularly.
Tips for Disinfecting Your Toothbrush
Soaking your toothbrush in a 1:1 vinegar and water solution, or bleach and water, can quickly disinfect your brush. You can also run it through the dishwasher or a UV cleaner, if you have one. Remember to toss your brush every 3 months or if/when you get sick.
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