How to Disinfect a Toothbrush After Being Sick

Answer first: replace or disinfect

After an illness, the most direct way to remove germs from your toothbrush is to replace it. This is especially true when you have used the brush throughout the sickness. For a manual brush, throw it out and start with a fresh one. For a powered toothbrush, replace the brush head. Doing so avoids any guesswork and follows the ADA's general advice to replace brushes every three to four months or sooner if bristles are frayed.

If you prefer not to replace it, disinfection is a reasonable step. The ADA notes that toothbrushes can harbor bacteria, although there is no evidence that these bacteria cause adverse health effects. Still, after an illness, many people want to lower the germ load. Soaking the brush in 3% hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash greatly reduces bacterial load, according to research referenced by the ADA. You can use this method for a toothbrush whose bristles are still in good condition.

How to disinfect a toothbrush

To keep the process simple, follow these steps after the illness has run its course. Use a clean container and do not share it with other household items.

• Rinse the bristles under tap water to remove toothpaste and debris.
• Fill a small cup or glass with enough 3% hydrogen peroxide or antiseptic mouthwash to cover the bristles.
• Soak the brush head in the solution for several minutes. Do not soak the handle of a powered brush.
• Remove the brush, rinse the bristles under tap water, and shake off excess liquid.
• Store the brush upright and let it air dry.

Drying and storage

After disinfecting, drying matters as much as soaking. The ADA and MouthHealthy recommend rinsing your toothbrush thoroughly after each use, storing it upright, and allowing it to air dry. Do not routinely cover the brush or store it in a closed container, because a moist environment promotes microbial growth more than open air does. If you keep multiple brushes in one holder, separate them to avoid cross-contamination.

For brushes with travel cases, keep the case for travel rather than daily covered storage. A brush that stays wet in a travel case after use is more likely to grow unwanted bacteria. If you do use a case, let the brush dry before closing it. This advice also applies to UV sanitizer cases, which are available as a separate device; the ADA says to look for a sanitizer device cleared by the FDA if you choose to use one.

When to replace instead

Replacement beats disinfection in several situations. If you are severely ill, have a weakened immune system, or are caring for someone who is sick, a fresh brush removes the concern entirely. The ADA and MouthHealthy both point out that worn bristles reduce cleaning effectiveness, so a brush with matted or frayed bristles should be replaced regardless of disinfection. In general, replace every three to four months or sooner if the bristles are visibly worn.

Also replace the brush if it was stored in a closed container while you were sick and stayed damp, because a moist brush is more likely to grow microbes. If you have any doubt about whether a brush can be cleaned well enough, a fresh one is the safer choice. Replacing the brush is an easy way to protect yourself.

For children, the same rules apply. A child who has been sick should get a new brush or brush head once they are well, or the brush should be disinfected the same way if it is still in good shape. Children can be more likely to chew the bristles, so inspect the brush and replace it if the bristles are matted. See our kids' toothbrush guide if you are choosing a replacement.

What not to do

Some popular cleaning methods are not recommended. Microwaving a toothbrush or putting it in the dishwasher can damage the brush, according to the ADA. Boiling water can also distort soft bristles and may damage a powered brush head, so it is safer to stick with a soak and rinse. Do not use bleach or other harsh household cleaners on a toothbrush, because you do not want to introduce those substances into your mouth.

Avoid sharing toothbrushes, especially when someone is sick. MouthHealthy notes that sharing can spread germs and bacteria, and this is a particular concern if you have a cold or flu to spread or a condition that leaves your immune system compromised. Each person in a household should have their own brush, stored separately so the heads do not touch.

Choosing a replacement brush

When you do replace, choose a brush that follows the ADA's basic guidance: soft bristles, a comfortable handle, and, ideally, the ADA Seal. You can choose a manual brush, a rechargeable powered brush, or a kids' model depending on who needs it. For most people, a brush with a small head and soft bristles is a safe default. See the soft-bristled toothbrush picks or ADA-accepted toothbrushes for guidance.

Once you have a clean or fresh brush, get back to your normal routine. The ADA recommends brushing twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between teeth daily. Regular care, combined with replacing or disinfecting after illness, will keep your mouth ready for daily brushing.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I use mouthwash instead of hydrogen peroxide?

Yes. The ADA cites research showing that soaking a toothbrush in 3% hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash greatly reduces bacterial load. Use enough to cover the bristles and rinse well afterward.

Should I replace my toothbrush after every cold?

Replacing is the safest and simplest option. If you do not want to replace it, disinfection is a reasonable alternative. Whichever method you choose, wait until you are no longer contagious before you use the brush again, unless you are replacing it.

How often should I replace a toothbrush after being sick?

There is no fixed rule beyond the standard three to four month replacement cycle. After a contagious illness, replace the brush immediately if you used it while sick, then follow the usual replacement schedule. If the illness was severe or your immune system is compromised, replacing is the safer choice.

Does boiling water disinfect a toothbrush?

Boiling water is not recommended. High heat can damage the brush, and the ADA specifically advises against microwaving and dishwasher cleaning. Stick with a soak in 3% hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash.

Are UV sanitizer cases effective?

The ADA notes that toothbrush sanitizer devices are available and advises looking for a device cleared by the FDA. A sanitizer case can be part of your routine, but it should not replace ordinary rinsing and air drying. For daily care, follow the ADA's advice to rinse, store upright, and let the brush dry.

Should I disinfect the toothbrush handle too?

For a powered brush, avoid soaking the handle. Wipe the outside of the handle with a clean cloth and follow the maker's care instructions. The brush head is the part that goes in the mouth, so focus your soaking there. See how to clean an electric toothbrush handle for more detail.