November 27, 2018
How to Disinfect Toothbrushes
We’re in the thick of cold and flu season and if you or someone in your household had a cold, the flu, or a virus, you should either disinfect the toothbrush or replace it. This keeps you from re-infecting yourself and keeps those germs away. I’ve used this technique when a toothbrush has been dropped on the floor and just to ensure that a toothbrush is clean. Curious about other things you can clean with hydrogen peroxide? Check out this post about general uses for disinfection and this post about toilet brush care. If you are dealing with illness in your house right now, check out this post for what I clean when the kids get sick.
The simplest way to disinfect your toothbrush is to pour a little hydrogen peroxide into a small glass or cup, place your toothbrush with the bristles facing downward into the glass. If the bristles aren’t covered with the liquid, pour a little more into the glass. Let the toothbrush sit in the hydrogen peroxide for 15-30 minutes and rinse thoroughly under running water. Allow to air dry.
Simple and effective, the perfect tip!
Anne Says
I do this every Monday when I do our bathrooms.
Melody Says
That’s a great idea, thanks!
Moe Bell Says
Great idea!!
b r Says
Post authorLove this Anne!
Michele Says
I love the dried beef glass! We re-purposed those all the time at our house while I was growing up. You brought a bit of nostalgia to my morning! 🙂
b r Says
Post authorThank you Michele! They’re from my Grandma – every time I use them I think of her, even if it’s disinfecting toothbrushes 😉
mwsamant Says
I just run my toothbrushes through the dishwasher in the utensil basket.
Katie Says
Great idea! One question…do you put multiple toothbrushes in one jar, or does each toothbrush get its own jar?
b r Says
Post authorOne toothbrush per jar 🙂
Suzanne Says
I keep my toothbrush in mouthwash which I change every day. I use a pill box to put it in.
Ena Says
Can this method be used to clean bamboo toothbrushes as well?
b r Says
Post authorYou should be able to 🙂
scotty wickham Says
my wife does this all the time. we are 72 for me and — for her and we don’t get the flue, without shots or colds.
Latrisha Says
How often should tooth brushes be replaced?
b r Says
Post authorEvery 3 months
Audrey Says
I have a ton of hydrogen peroxide left from volunteering at a STEM event for young girls. We used it with yeast to make “elephant toothpaste.” Now I know what to do with all the extra!
b r Says
Post authorGlad you found a great use for the extras!
Juliana Says
Hi Becky, thanks for your wonderful advice. Is this method possible also for bamboo toothbrushes? Thank you.
Clean Mama Says
Post authorGive it a try!