How to Clean a Spinbrush Toothbrush

Why cleaning a Spinbrush matters

A Spinbrush works by moving the bristles for you, but powered motion also gives toothpaste and saliva more places to collect. Cleaning the brush after each use helps remove the paste and debris that can build up around the rotating head. The ADA recommends rinsing a toothbrush thoroughly after every use to remove any remaining paste and debris.

Good cleaning habits also keep the brush pleasant to use. If too much paste dries on the handle or under the head, the moving parts can feel stiff. For an overview of how Spinbrush compares with sonic models, see Spinbrush vs. sonic toothbrushes.

A cleaning routine also gives you a chance to inspect the brush. When you rinse the head, you can check the bristles and the seam between the head and handle. That makes it easier to spot wear before it affects your brushing.

Rinse the head after every use

Immediately after brushing, turn off the brush and hold the bristles under a stream of tap water. Move the brush slowly so water reaches the bristles and the area between the head and the handle. MouthHealthy, the ADA's patient site, says cleaning a toothbrush is easy: rinse it with tap water to remove remaining toothpaste and debris.

If your Spinbrush has a removable head, take it off at least once a week and rinse the underside. This removes material that a quick rinse from above may miss. Shake off excess water before putting the head back on or storing the brush.

Make it a habit to rinse before you set the brush down. A brush left with paste on the bristles takes longer to dry and may develop a film on the head. The rinse does not need to be long; a few seconds under running water is enough if you also shake the brush afterwards.

Store the Spinbrush upright and let it air dry

After rinsing, stand the Spinbrush upright with the head at the top. The ADA says toothbrushes should be stored upright and allowed to air dry. Storing a moist brush in a closed container promotes microbial growth more than leaving it exposed to open air, so keep the brush on the counter rather than in a drawer or covered cup.

If you share a bathroom, keep your Spinbrush separated from other brushes. MouthHealthy notes that if you store your toothbrush with other toothbrushes, make sure they are separated to prevent cross contamination. See how to dry and store your toothbrush for more practical tips.

If you use a bathroom cabinet, put the brush on a shelf where it is not crowded. Let air circulate around the bristles. You can also use a holder that supports the brush by the handle and leaves the head exposed.

Clean the handle and keep the motor dry

The handle is the part with the switch and, on many Spinbrush models, the battery compartment. Keep the outside clean by wiping it with a damp cloth, then drying it with a separate dry cloth. Avoid running the handle under water and never submerge it; water can seep into the switch and battery area.

If the handle has removable batteries, take them out occasionally and clean the contacts with a dry cloth. This is especially useful if you live in a humid climate or if the brush sits near a sink. For battery-specific maintenance, see how to change a Spinbrush battery.

• Wipe the handle with a damp cloth and dry it immediately.
• Avoid getting water into the switch, battery cover, or charging contacts.
• Remove batteries if you will not use the brush for a long time.

Deep clean and sanitize the brush head

A daily rinse is enough for routine care, but you may occasionally want to sanitize the head. The ADA says one study found that soaking a toothbrush in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or a mouthwash greatly reduced bacterial load. You can soak the brush head in a small cup of either solution for a few minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with tap water.

Do not put a Spinbrush in the microwave or dishwasher. The ADA says these high-heat methods are not recommended because they may damage the brush. Also avoid routinely covering the brush or closing it in a container while it is still wet. For more sanitizing options, read how to clean and sanitize toothbrush heads.

Replace the rotating head regularly

The rotating head on a Spinbrush wears out like any other brush. The ADA recommends replacing a toothbrush every three to four months or more often if the bristles are visibly matted or frayed. Worn bristles do not clean as well, and a damaged head can be harder to keep clean.

Check the bristles each month by looking at them from the side. If they bend outward or lose their shape, replace the head. This is the same schedule you should follow for any manual or powered brush; see how often to replace a toothbrush head.

Some Spinbrush heads have indicator bristles that fade with use, but the ADA's general advice is to watch the calendar and the shape of the bristles. If you are unsure, replacing the head is a low-risk way to keep your brush working well.

When you are ready for a new brush or replacement heads, compare the best Spinbrush toothbrushes and the best rotating or oscillating toothbrushes.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I put my Spinbrush in the dishwasher?

No. The ADA recommends against microwaving or putting toothbrushes in the dishwasher because high heat may damage the brush. Rinse the head with tap water instead.

How often should I replace a Spinbrush head?

Every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are visibly matted or frayed. This follows the ADA's general toothbrush replacement guidance.

Is it okay to store my Spinbrush in a closed travel case while it is wet?

No. The ADA says a moist brush stored in a closed container promotes microbial growth more than leaving it exposed to open air. Let the brush dry before closing a case.

Can I soak my Spinbrush head in mouthwash?

Yes. One ADA-cited study found that soaking a toothbrush in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide or mouthwash greatly reduced bacterial load. Rinse the head afterward to remove any solution.