How can I sterilize a toothbrush?

Question

I'm always afriad that there's airborne germs that fall onto my toothbrush when I'm not using it. Is there a good way to sterilize it?

Answer 1

The easiest way to sterilze a toothbrush is to boil it in water then store it in a sealed container that also has been boiled.

You'd have to do this everytime after you brush because your mouth has bacterial that would get back on the toothbrush everytime you brush.

Some toothbrushes can not be boiled (because of the materials made) so YMMV.

Answer 2

Do NOT use alcohol or bleach!!!!!!! NEVER - (was I clear enough?)

Both do not kill germs in the presence of protein, and saliva has lots of proteins.

Do not boil the brush - I've had mothers loose pots that way. The handle melts to the bottom of your pot or pan, and ther bristles float.

Microwaves are not good at sterilizing, but again may ruin your brush.

Most good brushes will last thru 5 cleanings in a dishwasher.

Easy method - cover it with a plastic sandwich bag, open enough to let it dry out. But the airborne germs will not harm you, in fact studies show that to sterile an environment leads to increased allergies & compromised immune systems.

Tooth brushes should be replaced when the bristles are bent or frayed. Use only soft bristle brushes. They are kinder to your teeth & gums, and actually do a far better job than stiff or medium.

Stiff or medium bristled brushes are great for cleaning tile, or shoes - but keep them out of the mouth.

Answer 3

Storage of your toothbrush is essential to eliminating bacterial growth on your toothbrush. It is best NOT to keep it laying on the counter or in those toothbrush cups where it can be exposed to bacteria. It is best to keep it in a closed drawer or cabinet. Recomendation is to replace your toothbrush every three to four months or earlier if the bristles become splayed (bent out of straight alignment.) You can also place your toothbrush in a glass jar/container half filled with water and microwave it for two minutes or until the water has been boiling for at least 45 seconds.
** Be sure to keep an eye on it because some toothbrushes can melt.

Answer 4

after each use i rinse it very well and keep a glass or small cup of listerne on the counter an i soak it the listerne when not in use
change the listerine every 3 days this also givenyour toothpaste better cleaning action if u dont rinse off the excesslisterne before adding paste

Answer 5

Rubbing alcohol poured over it will do the trick. Let it sit for 30 seconds and rinse well before using.

Answer 6

lol change ur bursh monthly i worked fro a dentist alcohol is not a germ killer contrary to ppls beliefs.. u can soak it in bleach water let air dry

Answer 7

try putting in the dishwasher, top shelf, when you do your dishes. It works. The heat will kill the germs.

Answer 8

Dip it in hydrogen peroxide

Answer 9

if you want to just buy a new one and get the travel caps that go on them and keep it in that i do that with mine

Answer 10

Run boiling water over it, you can use mouthwash as well.