How to Deodorize a Smelly Toothbrush

Why a toothbrush smells

A smelly toothbrush is usually a hygiene issue, not a sign that the brush is broken. The ADA notes that toothbrushes can harbor bacteria, and that storing a moist toothbrush in a closed container promotes microbial growth more than leaving it open to the air. Leftover toothpaste, food particles and saliva give bacteria something to feed on. That is why the odor often shows up first on the bristles and near the base of the tufts.

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, and the NIDCR lists poor brushing and flossing habits as the path that lets plaque build up. When you brush, some of that bacteria naturally transfers to the brush. This does not mean your brush is dangerous, but it does mean routine cleaning and drying matter.

Persistent bad breath is also listed as a symptom of gum disease by the NIDCR, so a mouth odor that you notice when brushing may be coming from your gums rather than from the brush itself. If the smell is truly on the brush and does not go away after it dries, focus on the care steps below.

Rinse after every use

Make rinsing part of your brushing routine. The ADA and MouthHealthy both recommend rinsing the toothbrush thoroughly with tap water to remove remaining toothpaste and debris. Run water over the bristles for a few seconds, then rub the bristles with your thumb or rinse the head in a cup of clean water. Pay special attention to the base of the bristles, where paste tends to collect.

Rinsing removes the food for bacteria, but it does not remove all moisture. A rinse is the first step, not the only step. Pair it with drying and occasional soaking for the best results. If you need a fuller routine, see how to clean and sanitize brush heads.

• Do not share toothbrushes. Sharing can exchange bodily fluids and microorganisms.
• If you keep multiple toothbrushes in one holder, space the heads apart to prevent cross contamination.
• For an electric brush, detach the head before rinsing if the handle is not designed to be submerged.

Soak to reduce odor-causing bacteria

When a brush starts to smell, a simple rinse may not be enough. The ADA reports that one study found soaking a toothbrush in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash greatly reduced bacterial load. You can use this as an occasional deep clean. Fill a small cup with enough solution to cover the bristles, soak the brush head for a few minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with tap water.

Do not soak the entire handle of an electric toothbrush. Water can get inside the handle and damage the motor. Remove the brush head and soak only the head. To avoid exchanging germs among family members, use a separate cup or wash the cup between uses.

Some people use white vinegar or baking soda, but those are not included in the ADA summary. Stick with methods that have direct evidence behind them. If the smell comes back quickly, the brush head may need to be replaced.

• Use 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash.
• Soak only the brush head.
• Rinse well after soaking.
• Shake off excess water and air dry upright.

Dry and store upright

Moisture is what lets odor-causing bacteria multiply. The ADA and MouthHealthy both recommend storing toothbrushes in an upright position after use and allowing them to air dry. After rinsing, shake off excess water, then stand the brush in a holder with the bristles at the top. Do not lay it flat on the counter or store it in a closed cup where water pools.

Closed containers are a common culprit. The ADA states that storing a moist toothbrush in a closed container promotes microbial growth more than leaving it exposed to open air. A wet brush in a travel case or a covered holder can develop an odor very quickly. If you use a case, let the brush dry before closing it, or choose a ventilated case. More details are in how to dry and store a toothbrush.

If you use an electric toothbrush, dry the handle with a cloth after rinsing. Remove the brush head and let both parts dry separately. This also helps prevent mold on the toothbrush and keeps the charging contacts clean.

When to replace instead of deodorize

Cleaning and drying solve most smell problems, but toothbrushes do not last forever. The ADA recommends replacing toothbrushes every three to four months, or more often if the bristles are visibly matted or frayed. A worn brush does not clean as effectively, and a brush with damaged bristles is harder to keep fresh. If a brush still smells after rinsing and soaking, replace it.

Replacing the brush head is also part of normal maintenance for powered brushes. A fresh head removes plaque more effectively and gives you a clean surface to work with. For more on timing, see how often to replace a toothbrush head. If you are shopping for a new brush, start with the best ADA-accepted toothbrushes and the best soft-bristle toothbrushes.

What to avoid

Do not microwave a toothbrush or put it in the dishwasher to deodorize it. The ADA warns that such high heat may damage the brush. Do not use boiling water for the same reason. These methods can warp or melt the bristles and handle, and they do not replace proper drying.

Do not routinely cover your brush or keep it in a closed container while it is wet. Do not share toothbrushes, and do not expect a sanitizer to fix a brush that is already worn. If you want extra sanitation, the ADA suggests looking for a device cleared by the FDA. You can learn more about UV sanitizer cases and cleaning and sanitizing brush heads.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Why does my toothbrush smell even after I rinse it?

Rinsing removes visible paste and debris, but bacteria can remain in the moisture between bristles. Soaking the brush head in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash can reduce bacterial load, and the brush should always be stored upright to air dry. If the smell returns quickly, replace the brush head.

Is it safe to soak an electric toothbrush head in mouthwash?

Yes, the brush head can be soaked, but the handle should not be submerged. Remove the head, soak it briefly, then rinse it thoroughly. Dry the handle with a cloth and let the head air dry before reattaching it.

Can I boil my toothbrush to deodorize it?

No. The ADA advises against microwaving or putting toothbrushes in the dishwasher because high heat may damage the brush. Boiling can warp or melt the plastic. Rinsing, soaking in a safe solution and air drying are better options.

How often should I replace a smelly toothbrush?

The ADA recommends replacing toothbrushes every three to four months, or sooner if bristles are matted or frayed. If a toothbrush still smells after cleaning and drying, replace it. More frequent replacement may be needed after illness, which is covered in disinfecting a toothbrush after sickness.

Does a UV sanitizer case help with odor?

Sanitizer devices are available, and the ADA says patients should look for one cleared by the FDA. A sanitizer can reduce bacteria, but it is not a replacement for rinsing, drying and replacing the brush. See UV sanitizer cases for guidance.