The Ugly Truth About Your Toothbrush

Could Your Toothbrush Be Making You Sick?

You probably won't get an infection from your own toothbrush. Even if your brush is covered in bacteria, your immune system can usually take care of any bacterial invaders. However, you should still care for your toothbrush properly and keep it clean. The following discuss some ways to care for and store your toothbrush properly to minimize the chance of illness.

Don't Brush Where You Flush

Where you store your toothbrush in your bathroom is important. In most bathrooms, the toilet is very close to the sink, where most people keep their toothbrushes. Every time you flush, bacteria are released into the air – and you don't want that bacteria to get on your toothbrush.

It's just common sense to store your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible, Keep it in a medicine cabinet if possible, and always close the toilet lid before flushing to minimize the spread of bacteria onto your toothbrush.

Toothbrush Holders

Toothbrush holders as well can pick up bacteria that are spread by toilet flushing. Toothbrush holders are the third-most germy household items (behind dish sponges and kitchen sinks). Remember to clean your toothbrush holder regularly to remove germs.

Toothbrush Storage Tips

After you've moved your toothbrush as far from the toilet as possible, and cleaned your toothbrush holder, here are some storage tips to keep your toothbrush as germ-free as possible:

*Rinse your toothbrush thoroughly with tap water every time you use it.

*Let your toothbrush dry thoroughly between brushings. Don't use toothbrush covers, which can create a moist enclosed breeding ground for bacteria.

*Keep your toothbrush upright in a holder, rather than lying it down.

*Don't ever use anyone else's toothbrush, or let someone use yours.

*Keep toothbrushes separate. If toothbrushes touch they can swap germs.

medicinenet.com