Many people hang their toothbrushes near the sink after brushing, but this isn’t the most hygienic practice. In most American homes, bathrooms often combine the toilet, bathtub, and sink in one space, which can lead to some seriously icky contamination. Let’s explore the best ways to keep your toothbrush clean and germ-free!
Here’s a gross fact: when you flush the toilet, bacteria can become airborne and spread throughout your bathroom. Unfortunately, your innocent toothbrush sitting nearby could catch all those nasty germs.
A study in the Indian Journal of Dental Research found some shocking results. They compared toothbrushes stored in bathrooms with and without toilets. After just one month, the brushes near toilets were crawling with bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and mutans streptococci. By three months, they even found E. coli.
So, what should a hygiene-conscious person do? Your best bet is to store your toothbrush outside the bathroom. Bacteria and mold love damp environments, so skip the closed bathroom drawer. Instead, find a well-ventilated spot, like near a window.
If you absolutely must keep your toothbrush in the bathroom, place it as far from the toilet as possible. You could also try a toothbrush sanitizer, but you must clean it regularly to avoid becoming a breeding ground for bacteria.
Here’s a pro tip: run your toothbrush under the hottest water from your faucet for about 30 seconds before brushing. This quick step can help zap those invisible bacteria.
After brushing, use a clean finger to gently separate the bristles and rinse away any leftover gunk under running water. Finish with another 30-second hot water rinse for extra cleanliness.
Avoid cramming multiple toothbrushes into one holder. When bristles touch, you risk cross-contamination – when germs from one brush hop over to another. If you’re storing multiple toothbrushes, keep them at least 2 inches apart. This simple step can help keep everyone’s oral hygiene routine more sanitary.
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