How to Clean and Sanitize Toothbrush Heads

Start with routine cleaning after every brush

The first step to a clean brush head is simple: rinse it thoroughly after every use. The American Dental Association advises rinsing the toothbrush after each brushing to remove leftover paste and debris. This matters for both manual and electric brushes. For an electric brush, detach the head so you can rinse it without running water into the handle; see how to clean an electric toothbrush handle if water has already gotten into the handle.

After rinsing, store the brush head upright and let it air dry. The ADA's MouthHealthy site explains that a moist environment, such as a closed container, encourages microbial growth more than open air. If you store brushes together, keep the heads separated to prevent cross contamination. Learn more about drying and storing toothbrushes.

• Shake off excess water after rinsing.
• Stand the brush upright, not lying flat.
• Keep brush heads from touching other heads.
• Only use a cover or case when traveling, and let the head dry afterward.

When deeper sanitizing makes sense

Routine cleaning is usually enough. The ADA notes that while toothbrushes can harbor bacteria, there is no evidence that these bacteria cause adverse health effects. Still, you may want to reduce the bacterial load after an illness, after someone else has used your brush by accident, or if your immune system is compromised. In those cases, a sanitizing step can give you peace of mind. See how to disinfect a toothbrush after sickness.

One important rule: never share a toothbrush. Sharing can transfer bodily fluids and microorganisms between people. This is especially risky for someone with a cold, flu, or a weakened immune system. A brush head is a personal care item, and replacing it is a better option than trying to sanitize a shared brush.

Sanitizing methods backed by dental organizations

When you do sanitize, choose a method with evidence behind it. The ADA's toothbrush care page cites one study that found soaking a toothbrush in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or in an antiseptic mouthwash greatly reduces bacterial load, by about 85 percent. To use this method, fully cover the bristles in a small cup of the liquid, let it soak for a few minutes, then rinse the head thoroughly and air dry it.

Several toothbrush sanitizer devices are also available. The ADA advises patients to look for a device that has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. If you are considering a UV sanitizer case, read what to know about UV sanitizer cases and how to care for a UV toothbrush sanitizer.

Cleaning methods to avoid

The ADA specifically advises against microwaving toothbrushes or putting them in the dishwasher. High heat from these methods can damage the brush. Damage to the head can make it less effective and harder to clean, so it is not worth the risk.

The same idea applies to routine storage: do not keep a damp brush in a closed container. A wet, enclosed space gives bacteria a better environment to grow. If you use a travel case, let the head dry before closing it, or clean the case regularly. See how to clean a toothbrush travel case.

Replace heads on schedule

Cleaning and sanitizing do not replace the need to change your brush head. The ADA recommends replacing toothbrushes every three to four months, or more often if the bristles look matted or frayed. A worn head cleans less effectively. This schedule applies to manual and powered brushes alike. For more detail, read how often to replace a toothbrush head.

If you are buying a new brush, think about how easy it will be to replace the head. Some toothbrush families use heads that are widely available and simple to change. A brush with a replaceable head lets you keep the handle and swap only the part that needs replacing. Compare options in our best toothbrushes with many brush heads guide or start with ADA-accepted toothbrushes.

Differences for electric and manual brushes

Electric and manual brushes both need the same basic care: rinse, air dry, and replace on schedule. For an electric model, detach the head after brushing, rinse it, and keep the handle dry. If the handle gets dirty, clean it separately rather than submerging it. See how to clean an electric toothbrush handle.

If you are deciding between brush types, know that both can clean well when used correctly. The ADA's home oral care guidance says a two-minute brushing session is associated with greater plaque reduction than a one-minute session, so use your brush long enough to clean every surface. See manual vs. electric toothbrush for a fuller comparison.

What to pick for your use

Questions

How do I clean a toothbrush head after every use?

Rinse it thoroughly under tap water, shake off excess water, store it upright, and let it air dry. Do not store a wet brush in a closed container, because a moist environment promotes microbial growth.

Does soaking in mouthwash really sanitize a toothbrush head?

The ADA cites a study that found soaking in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash greatly reduces bacterial load. After soaking, rinse the head well and let it air dry.

Can I put my toothbrush head in the dishwasher or microwave?

No. The ADA advises against both methods because high heat may damage the brush. It is better to stick to approved soaking methods or a sanitizer device cleared by the FDA.

Should I use a UV sanitizer case for my toothbrush head?

You can, but look for a device that has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Follow the device instructions, and let the head dry before closing the case. See what to know about UV sanitizer cases.

How often should I replace a toothbrush head?

The ADA recommends every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are matted or frayed. A worn head is less effective at cleaning, so replacement is an important part of brush head care.

Is it safe to share a toothbrush head?

Do not share toothbrushes or brush heads. Sharing can exchange bodily fluids and microorganisms between people, and it is especially risky if one person is sick or has a weakened immune system.