If you use an electric toothbrush and notice a bad smell or buildup of dirt on it, you should clean it thoroughly. Cleaning an electric toothbrush doesn't take long and doing it once a month can extend the life of your toothbrush so it can be used for years. You only need a few things you usually have at home, such as bleach and a clean washcloth. After the series of processes is complete, the electric toothbrush will be clean and ready to be used again.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Toothbrush Head
Step 1. Mix the bleach and water in a 1:10 ratio
Once a month, clean your electric toothbrush with bleach and water. Mix bleach and water in a 1:10 ratio in a small container, such as a cup. Make sure the container you are using is large enough so that the toothbrush head can be completely submerged.
- Wear rubber or latex gloves before working with bleach to prevent skin irritation.
- If you don't want to use bleach, you can also use mouthwash or hydrogen peroxide.
Step 2. Soak your toothbrush head in the mixture for 1 hour
Make sure the head is completely submerged, then set the timer for 1 hour. The bleach will work as a disinfectant to clean the toothbrush head so that bacteria and dirt can be removed.
- Don't let it sit for more than an hour! Bleach is very strong, even after being dissolved.
- Make sure the container you are using is placed high enough so that it will not be disturbed by children and pets.
Step 3. Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly
Remove the toothbrush head from the water and rinse it in the sink. Keep rinsing until the water turns clear and you don't smell the bleach on the toothbrush.
It's not safe to use a toothbrush that still has residue on the bleach. So, make sure you rinse it thoroughly
Step 4. Wipe the toothbrush head and let it dry
Take a clean towel and wipe the toothbrush head as clean as possible. Place the toothbrush head on the kitchen counter or in the bathroom until it dries completely to avoid mold or stains from forming.
Wet toothbrushes can cause mucus to form on the handle. Nobody likes this
Method 2 of 3: Toothbrush Grip and Support
Step 1. Rub a cloth that has been dipped in bleach on the handle of the toothbrush
To clean the brush body, you must use a mixture of bleach and water (with a 10:1 ratio of bleach to water). Dip a washcloth or cotton ball into the mixture, then rub it over the handle of the toothbrush, focusing on the moldy or stained areas.
- Disconnect the toothbrush power cord before cleaning it.
- Before starting to work with bleach, put on gloves to protect your skin from irritation.
Step 2. Wipe the metal rod connected to the toothbrush head
If the brush head is removable (most electric toothbrush heads are removable), there is usually a small metal rod protruding. These stems can be a nest of piles of water and bacteria. So, it is very important to wipe it with a rag and scrub it vigorously. If the washcloth is not enough, take a cotton swab and dip it in the bleach solution, then use it to clean small crevices.
If your toothbrush smells bad and you don't know why, the problem is usually caused by fungus in the area
Step 3. Use a rag to wipe the stem of the toothbrush
Most toothbrushes come with a charging stand where water and toothpaste residue can accumulate. Use the same rag to wipe the top and bottom of the stand. Do not wipe the power cord or plug that is there.
To keep the stand clean, try to wipe it every time it comes into contact with water. This will prevent mold and stains from forming
Step 4. Wipe the toothbrush handle until it is dry
Take a clean rag and wipe the entire surface before replacing the toothbrush head. Sticky liquid can trigger the appearance of mold and stains. So, it is very important to dry the toothbrush stem every time it comes into contact with water.
Never immerse a toothbrush in water as this can cause an electric shock
Method 3 of 3: Daily Care
Step 1. Rinse the toothbrush head and handle after each use
When you use a toothbrush, there will be a small amount of toothpaste stuck in the bristles so that the object feels sticky. After brushing your teeth, rinse the brush head and handle with running water until they look clean again.
Rinsing your toothbrush will keep it clean, making it more effective at cleaning your teeth
Step 2. Do not press the toothbrush too hard while brushing
If you brush your teeth with too much pressure, the bristles will wear out faster than usual. When brushing your teeth, apply gentle pressure so that the bristles don't bend and the object can be used longer.
If the bristles are bent or worn, you will need to purchase a new brush head
Step 3. Store the toothbrush in an upright position
This will allow it to dry faster than lying down. You can place it on the sink and countertop, or plug it directly into the charger, if you have one.
Do not put the toothbrush in a closed container because it can trigger the appearance of mold or bacteria
Step 4. Store your toothbrush in a special case when you travel
If you take your toothbrush with you when you travel, don't leave it out in the open or in your bag. Buy a special toothbrush holder that is designed to store electric toothbrushes so the bristles can be protected from dust and dirt while you are traveling.
Don't forget to bring a charger
Step 5. Change your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months
You can buy a new toothbrush head online or at a supermarket. Replace the toothbrush head and remove the old head to keep your toothbrush in top condition.
