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The best ways to clean our toothbrushes

As most of us run toothbrushes under water before and after brushing, this doesn't mean they're clean – especially between bristles.

The University of Manchester found that your toothbrush is home to more than 100 million bacteria including E.coli and staphylococci.

If that's the case, it means you're cleaning your teeth with a dirty toothbrush.

So how do you clean your brush?

One way to combat bacteria build-up is by soaking it in antibacterial mouthwash and stir the bristled end for around 30 seconds.

If you don't have mouthwash, dissolving a denture cleanser or mixture of two teaspoons baking soda in water also works wonders.

Fortunately, there are more effective ways to clean your toothbrush than simply running it under water. I’ve compiled a list of sustainable methods to ensure good oral care and to prevent colds and flues.

Boiling – According to Dynamic Dental, boiling your toothbrush for about 3 minutes will kill most of the germs. The one downside is that this technique tends to lower the lifespan of your toothbrush

Hydrogen peroxide – Another option is to soak it in a cup of hydrogen peroxide after each use. Make sure to replace the hydrogen peroxide on a daily basis!

Vinegar and baking soda – The Natural Singer recommends a mixture of white vinegar, water, and baking soda and soaking your toothbrush in the solution for 30 minutes. (NOTE: As evidenced in my list of DIY cleaning recipes, vinegar can be used as a substitute for many harsh commercial cleaners).

Dishwasher – You can put your toothbrush in the silverware section of your dishwasher and run it through the hot cycle without detergent.

Isopropyl alcohol – Platinum Dental Care says that rinsing with rubbing alcohol will also do the trick, just make sure to rinse again with water or let it air dry before brushing your teeth.

In most cases, rinsing your toothbrush after every use in hot water is sufficient. In addition to the best practices mentioned, according to the Cleveland Clinic, look for any discoloration or build up in between the bristles. Also, do not share your toothbrush with anyone because we all have our own unique bacteria. You should especially avoid sharing with your young children as their bacteria are still developing.

Hopefully these toothbrush cleaning and sanitizing methods will not only keep your mouth clean, but also help to prevent unwanted colds and the flu during the upcoming season – happy brushing!

(08/30/2020)
by Christine Younan

More Information: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/real-life/youve-been-brushing-your-teeth-22478467

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