WARNING: Your Toothbrush Could Be Covered in Poo

Here's The Dirt: Your Toothbrush Is Dirty

We all want our mouths to be clean, pristine places. However, the truth of the matter is they're not; in fact, they're incredibly gross. The amount of bacteria and viruses on your toothbrush is startling, and if not cared for properly, all we're doing is brushing that gunk around.  Aside from the scary things growing on your toothbrush each day, think of the blood, saliva, and other daily things we're putting in our mouths. Of all the things disturbing the cleanliness of your toothbrush, what's the primary culprit? Your toilet and the "toilet plume".

What Is "Toilet Plume"?

When you flush your toilet, that spinning circle of water on the porcelain is actually stirring up a vortex of, you guessed it, poo and all the particles that come with it.  That vortex of microscopic yuck creates a vapor that then settles on anything and everything it touches in your bathroom.  If your brushes aren't covered with a casing or rinse cup, you better believe that vapor is making itself at home on your toothbrush.  A 1975 microbiological study confirmed toilet plume in your bathroom can contain Clostridium difficile (commonly known as C. diff), which was evident on the toothbrushes used in this study.  For a more recent study, including a detailed look at children's toothbrushes, you can nerd out here.  Quick solution? Close the lid before you flush.  However, this doesn't help improve the cleanliness of your toothbrush.

How To Clean Up That Toothbrush

While there is little evidence to support that the poo on your toothbrush is enough to actually make you sick, my personal preference is to keep that stick clean! The easiest way to clean your toothbrush is to soak it in Listerine or a three percent solution of hydrogen peroxide.  For a more in-depth cleaning process, try an ultraviolet sanitation device.  These can be found on Amazon for as cheap as $11, with most under $50. Ultimately, at the end of the day, the best way to keep that poo off your brush is to close the toilet lid when you flush.

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