The first step to start a fresh day is to brush your teeth. Cleaning your toothbrush with water is not always efficient.
The toothbrush remains exposed to various specks of dirt and bacteria as it idly sits on the brush holder.
A wash in the dishwasher can give a thorough cleaning to the brush and disinfectant it. Here is a guide to help you clean your toothbrush using a dishwasher.
Can you put a toothbrush in the dishwasher?
Yes, you most definitely can put a toothbrush in the dishwasher. However, some specific materials do not work well with dishwashers. Sometimes the manufacturers recommend just a traditional wash with water.
If you are keen to disinfect your toothbrush then you should buy a dishwasher-safe toothbrush. This will help you to stay uncompromised with your oral hygiene.
How to clean a toothbrush using the dishwasher?
Dishwashers have a dedicated slot for the silverware or the cutleries. That is the slot where you should put your toothbrush in.
Usually, two cycles complete the cleaning process. So ensure you use the rinsing cycle and the drying cycle to give your toothbrush a deep clean.
This not only cleans the toothbrush but also disinfects and sanitizes the toothbrush during the wash cycle.
Dishwashers on average have a fixed temperature of 130-140°F. This helps in killing the germs and bacteria that may comprise the cleanliness of the toothbrush.
Now, the important thing to look out for is the temperature of the water during the rinsing and drying cycle.
If it is not compatible with the material of the toothbrush, for example, if it is made from plastics or heat-sensitive materials, the toothbrush will melt and cause trouble for the dishwasher.
Read the toothbrush packaging thoroughly before regularly putting it into a dishwasher.
Another crucial thing is to not add any dishwashing liquid or detergent while running the cycle to clean your toothbrush.
The dishwasher will ensure a few things. At first, it will clean into the depths of the bristles. The toothbrush will be freed from impurities.
Lastly, it will result in a clean toothbrush. It will be ready to use. It will help to keep your teeth clean and safe from germs.
What kinds of toothbrushes are dishwashers friendly?
The most popular material for making a toothbrush is plastics.
There are many evolved versions of plastics that can be molded as per need into beautiful, strong, and easy to hold toothbrushes.
Then there are wooden toothbrushes and electric toothbrushes which are also popular these days.
All these have bristles either made from nylon or bamboo fiber. Both of them are dishwasher friendly.
However, low-quality plastics that are not heat resistant are not suitable for a wash in the dishwasher.
Wooden materials are forbidden to be used in dishwashers; hence, wooden toothbrushes are not to be used in the dishwasher.
Heat can tarnish the wood and even wreck the toothbrush.
It is alright to put an electric toothbrush in the dishwasher.
Electric toothbrushes are fancy and trendy yet putting them into dishwashers can bring trouble if you do not remove the batteries first.
Electric toothbrushes might not be able to withstand the rough cycles or the heat in that case. Check in with the details of the manufacturer and the body kit, it may sometimes be prone to get damaged.
They might develop scratches and the battery slot may get compromised. This will lead to ruining the electrically functioning ability of the toothbrushes.
How to clean a toothbrush without a dishwasher?
For simple cleaning, you are recommended to wash off your toothbrush with water. Next, you should rub through the bristles. This process should be repeated after every use.
If you want to disinfect or sanitize your toothbrush you need to follow a few steps. You need to boil your brush in hot water for about 3 minutes.
Next, you need to rinse it well enough in cold water and dry it off before use.
If you want clean bristles, you can use your mouthwash to get them clean. You can also use a UV sanitizer but that is a little expensive.
Other than all these, you should always store your toothbrush in a dry and clean place.
Avoid damp settings as they are breeding places for various germs and bacteria.
Try to use a toothbrush cap or a toothbrush holder to keep it covered and away from any dirt and dust around the toothbrush.
FAQs
How Often Should You Put Your Toothbrush In The Dishwasher?
You can put it twice a week depending on how much it is used.
Does Cleaning Your Toothbrush In The Dishwasher Make It Eligible For Using The Brush Over A Long Period?
It is true that cleaning your toothbrush using a dishwasher is an effective method of cleaning and disinfecting the toothbrush.
However, you should replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
Is It Wise To Place Your Toothbrush In The Washroom?
It is alright if it is stored inside a cupboard or covered with a holder. Otherwise, germs present in the washroom, germs that come up with the flush after use may get into the bristles and make the toothbrush unsuitable for use.
What Liquids Should You Use For Disinfecting Toothbrushes?
You can always use vinegar or baking soda to disinfect toothbrushes by mixing them with water and giving them a thorough cleaning.
When Should You Replace Your Toothbrush?
If the bristles start to get blunt or soggy, it is high time to replace your toothbrush.
Final Thought
Brushing your teeth with a germ-infected brush can not only ruin your hygiene but also cause oral diseases and infections.
Sanitizing, disinfecting, and cleaning your toothbrush with a dishwasher will keep you and your teeth safe from all these miseries and save you from the dentist bills.
Try this easy and effective method of cleaning your toothbrush by putting your hygiene essentials in the dishwasher and having fresh and clean brushing sessions.
