How to Disinfect an Electric Toothbrush

Although no one likes to find anything growing in or on their toothbrushes, millions of bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms love to make their homes in warm, moist areas, such as your toothbrush. It's important to clean and replace your toothbrush when needed to reduce the risk of getting sick or spreading infections to others. So, don't toss your electric toothbrush head into the nearest trash bin before you try disinfecting it first -- they can be expensive.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic or paper cup
• Bleach or hydrogen peroxide
• Rubber or plastic gloves
• Anti-bacterial mouth rinse (optional)

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Instructions

Clean the Brush Head

• 1

  Remove the brush head from the toothbrush unit. Depending on your particular device, you can either pull or unscrew it from the base.

• 2

  Add 1 tbsp. of bleach to 1 cup of water and pour in a cup.

• 3

  Soak the toothbrush head upside down in the cup for about 15 to 20 minutes. When finished, rinse it thoroughly under running water for two to three minutes.

• 4

  Air-dry the brush head on a small bathroom or paper towel.

Clean the Unit

• 5

  Add 1 tsp. of bleach to 1 cup of hot water.

• 6

  Put on a pair of rubber or plastic gloves. Dip a small towel into the solution and wipe the entire toothbrush unit.

• 7

  Place the toothbrush on a small towel and allow it to air-dry. Alternatively, if it's only mildly soiled, you can wipe the unit with a hot water and soap solution.