In short, the lifespan of a bamboo toothbrush will vary depending on a number of factors, such as how it’s stored, how often it’s used, the users brushing habits and the general care of the toothbrush.
That said, a bamboo toothbrush should typically last as long as a regular plastic toothbrush, which is around the 2 to 3 month mark. Some individuals might choose to replace their toothbrushes more frequently if the bristles start to fray or if they feel the need for a new one sooner, but every 2-3 months is a good indicator. That said, as bamboo is an organic, porous material, bamboo requires a little more care than their plastic counterparts.
Looking for a high quality bamboo toothbrush designed by dentists? We’ve got you! Check out our wide range of zero-waste bamboo toothbrushes here. Designed to keep both your teeth and the planet clean.
Tips for Maximising the Lifespan of a Bamboo Toothbrush
There are a number of things you can do to maximise the life of a bamboo toothbrush, so you’re not having to replace it sooner than the recommended 2-3 months.
1. Correct Storage
This is something that people often overlook when it comes to taking care of a bamboo toothbrush, and that is correct storage.
The best way to store a bamboo toothbrush once it’s been used is to place it in a clean, open-air toothbrush holder. This is important because, unlike traditional plastic toothbrushes, bamboo has natural antibacterial properties meaning it must properly air dry once it is damp or wet. You should also avoid laying your toothbrush on a flat surface as this might not drain the water out as well as if you were to store it upright.
Before popping it in its storage holder, give your bamboo toothbrush a gentle rub with your towel to ensure it’s completely dry.
It’s important that you store your bamboo toothbrush in a dry open area, as closed containers or damp environments that might encourage bacterial growth, and we do NOT want that going in our mouths!
Learn more about how to store a bamboo toothbrush here.
2. Rinse it Thoroughly
Another important tip when looking after your bamboo toothbrush is to ensure that, after every use, it is rinsed thoroughly under running water.
Rinse both the bristles and the bamboo handle so that you’ve removed all the food debris and excess toothpaste that might have accumulated during brushing. Give the brush a gentle shake while it's under the running water to help dislodge these particles. Once the toothbrush is clean, you can then use a clean towel to remove excess water from your toothbrush bristles and handle after each use.
Remember, bacteria can thrive in a moist environment, and rinsing the toothbrush after each use will help to remove organic matter that could foster bacterial growth.
3. Use Only as Intended
Now, this one might sound obvious, but you should only use your toothbrush as intended, i.e. as a toothbrush, and therefore avoid using it for any other purpose in case you damage the bristles.
That said, once it’s time to replace your bamboo toothbrush, there are a wide range of things you can do to repurpose and recycle your brush, save chucking it away.
For example, for all you garden lovers out there, why not use the handle of the toothbrush for plant markers? (check out this blog to discover how to remove the bristles). You could even coat the handle in paint to add a splash of colour to your garden. Bamboo toothbrushes can also come in handy when it comes to cleaning your house, as they’re small enough to get into those really awkward crevices, for example around bathroom tiles or sinks. Hey, you could also use your old bamboo toothbrush to clean muddy shoes and boots!
The list is endless.
4. Travel Considerations
Now, it’s only natural that when travelling, whether it be a short city break or a 6 month island hop around the Caribbean, routine can sometimes go out the window, including dental routine. However, ensuring you maintain a few key dental habits is key.
For example, when travelling, make sure you allow the toothbrush to dry before storing it away to prevent moisture buildup. You should also carry your toothbrush in a travel case for proper storage. This will not only protect your toothbrush from getting bashed around and damaged, but it will also protect the bristles from picking up any dirt from coming into contact with other items in your luggage. It will also keep your bamboo toothbrush separate from other toiletries or items to avoid potential contamination.
Read more about our top essential dental travel tips here.
Do Bamboo Toothbrushes Mould?
The simple answer to this question is - yes, bamboo toothbrushes can grow mould if they are not properly taken care of. This is because bamboo is a naturally porous organic material that can absorb moisture and hold onto it for a long period of time, which can therefore mean it’s more susceptible to mould.
While the microscopic amounts of mould and bacteria found on the average toothbrush is harmless, it’s still important to take proper care of your bamboo toothbrush to ensure it lasts for as long as possible, and that you’re not transferring bacteria into your mouth.
And there we have it! We hope this article has helped your understanding of how to take proper care of your bamboo toothbrush. Discover more tips on how to clean and care for your bamboo toothbrush here.
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Brush Fresh Co. is founded and run by a group of UK-based dentists, who specialise in environmentally-friendly and sustainable dental products. From biodegradable bamboo toothbrushes to zero waste toothbrush tablets, our product range has been designed to put both your dental health and the environment first. For more information and dental care advice, head over to our blog page or get in contact with us here.
Written by Kate, on behalf of Brush Fresh Co - the UK's Dental Experts Providing eco-friendly dental care.