How to Clean a Firefly Toothbrush

Rinse the brush head after every use

After your child finishes brushing, the bristles of a Firefly toothbrush can be coated with toothpaste, saliva, and food bits. The American Dental Association recommends rinsing a toothbrush thoroughly after each use to remove remaining paste and debris. This is the first and most important step in keeping the brush clean.

Hold the brush head under clean running water and let the stream pass through the bristles and between the tufts. If a few bristles still look stained, you can rub them gently with your thumb under the water. Do not use soap on the bristles unless you rinse it completely away, and do not put the brush in the dishwasher or microwave, because high heat may damage it.

A simple daily rinse keeps the brush ready for the next time your child needs it. For help choosing a brush your child will actually use, see the Firefly toothbrush guide.

• Rinse the bristles under tap water.
• Wipe the handle with a damp cloth.
• Shake and store upright to air dry.

Wipe the handle and grip

Kids often hold a toothbrush with wet hands, and toothpaste can slide down the handle. After rinsing the head, wipe the handle with a clean, damp cloth. Pay attention to any buttons, grips, or decorated areas where paste and water can collect.

For a powered brush, avoid running the whole handle under the tap. Water can work its way into the battery compartment or around the motor, which may stop the brush from working. A damp cloth is enough for the handle, and it keeps the brush more pleasant for the next child to hold. For more general advice, see how to clean kids' toothbrushes.

Shake and store upright to air dry

Moisture is the enemy of a hygienic toothbrush. The ADA recommends storing toothbrushes in an upright position after use and allowing them to air dry. Storing a moist toothbrush in a closed container promotes microbial growth more than leaving it exposed to the open air.

Shake off any excess water after rinsing, then stand the Firefly brush upright in a cup or holder so the bristles are not touching anything. If your family keeps several brushes together, separate them to prevent cross contamination. Do not routinely cover the brush or put it in a closed travel case while it is still wet. For more on the same topic, read how to dry and store a toothbrush.

Sanitize when you want extra reassurance

Everyday rinsing is enough for most families, but there are times when you may want to sanitize a child's toothbrush, such as after an illness. The ADA notes that soaking a toothbrush in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash greatly reduces bacterial load.

Soak the brush head in the solution for a short time, then rinse it thoroughly with tap water and let it air dry. Do not put a Firefly toothbrush in the dishwasher or microwave to sanitize it. High heat can damage the brush and is not recommended. For more options, see how to clean and sanitize toothbrush heads.

Build a hygienic brushing routine

A clean brush works best when children brush for the right amount of time. The ADA and the NHS both recommend brushing twice a day for about two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. The NHS advises parents to help or supervise children until they are at least 7 years old so they learn to clean every surface of every tooth.

A child-sized brush such as the Firefly is easier for small hands. If your child needs a reminder to keep brushing, look for a brush with a built-in timer. The best timer toothbrushes guide can help you compare options. For more on the two-minute habit, read what a two-minute timer means.

Replace before the bristles wear out

Cleaning a Firefly toothbrush does not make it last forever. The ADA recommends replacing toothbrushes every three to four months, or more often if the bristles are visibly matted or frayed. Worn bristles do not clean as well and can make brushing less effective.

Do not share a child's toothbrush with a sibling. Sharing a toothbrush can exchange bodily fluids and microorganisms between people. If a brush head looks damaged or the bristles start to bend out of shape, replace it sooner. For guidance on timing, see how often to replace a toothbrush head.

Parents often notice that younger children chew on brush heads, which can wear out bristles faster. In that case, plan to replace the Firefly brush more often than the usual three to four months. You can also compare kids' toothbrushes in the best kids' toothbrushes guide.

What to pick for your use

Questions

How often should I clean a Firefly toothbrush?

Rinse the bristles after every use and wipe the handle with a damp cloth. That is the daily routine. Deep cleaning with a soak in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or mouthwash is optional, and the ADA notes that soaking can greatly reduce bacteria.

Can I put a Firefly toothbrush in the dishwasher?

The ADA does not recommend putting toothbrushes in the dishwasher or microwave, because high heat may damage the brush. Rinse with tap water, wipe, and air dry instead.

How do I store a wet Firefly toothbrush?

Shake off excess water, store it upright, and let it air dry. Do not keep it in a closed container while it is wet, because a moist environment is more conducive to bacterial growth.

Should I sanitize my child's Firefly toothbrush after an illness?

Sanitizing is optional. If you choose to sanitize, soak the brush head in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or an antiseptic mouthwash, rinse well, and air dry. Do not microwave it or put it in the dishwasher.

When should I replace a Firefly toothbrush?

Replace it every three to four months or sooner if the bristles look matted or frayed. If a child chews the bristles, you may need to replace it more often.