Do You Know What's Living On Your Toothbrush?

Our mouth does a lot for us in way of fighting off possibly harmful germs and bacteria that come in through the air in our environment, and the food, drinks, and other products that we consume. Our mouth is also a refuge to millions of bacteria, some of which are good, while others can lead to disease. Let's take a closer look at some of the common types of germs that can enter your body via brushing, and found out how we can prevent them from causing us harm. 

We know the last place we want germs are bacteria is living on an item we repetitively put in our mouth, but that's often where they end up. Here are some of the common culprits: 

1. E. Coli 
   This widely-known, nasty little bugger is commonly found in and around sewage areas such as the toilet in your bathroom. It's associated with illnesses like diarrhea, pneumonia, and UTI's.  
2. The Flu Virus 
   Another household name is the common flu virus. Although you can't get the same strain of flu more than once, you can be contagious to others and affect their health, especially if you store your toothbrushes together. 
3. Streptococcus 
   This is one of the ultimate bad-guys that lead to throat infections and cavities. When untreated, some strains can cause heart ailments if allowed to enter the bloodstream. 
4. Staphylococcus Aureus
   This bug has a lot of variety and can range anywhere from harmless to life-threatening in levels of severity. You can acquire staph infections from sharing towels, razor blades, and toothbrushes. 

Now that you know some of the scary results of a poorly placed toothbrush, we have some advice on where to put and not to put your toothbrush and hygiene products so they stay safe from contamination. 

1. Toothbrush Holders
   I know, I know, if you can't put them in a product designed for them, where can you keep them? We understand it might be handy and convenient, but toothbrush holders are also the third dirtiest household item. This is especially true when it holds multiple people's toothbrushes. Toothbrush holders that are located next to a toilet also have an 80% higher chance of contamination. 
2. Toilet Counter Top 
   If your toilet is located near to or adjacent from your bathroom counter or sink, make sure you are closing the lid of your toilet before you flush for every flush! Each time you flush, bacteria is spun up and released into the air which allows for microscopic fecal matter to land directly on your toothbrushes and other personal items. 
3. Toothbrush Cap 
   Germs and bacteria are more likely to survive and thrive within enclosed areas such as plastic caps, like the one you put on the head of your toothbrush, or use for traveling. These little toothbrush helmets actually maintain moisture and humidity which nurture microorganisms; we definitely don't want that. 

So now you're equipped with a few handy tips to make your bathroom routine all the more hygienic, we have a few more on the best ways to keep your toothbrush clean. This goes a long way for making your toothbrush last longer as well as helping you maintain a healthier, happier smile and mouth. 

1. Try Using A UV Sanitizer 
   These are a growing trend and we're pretty big fans. The UV lights help to quickly kill deadly bacteria and viruses that may have penetrated your toothbrush. Most UV sanitizers don't require any liquid, heat, or stinging.
2. Soak Your Brush in Mouthwash 
   Especially if you choose a natural mouthwash product, this can be a helpful practice for you and your toothbrush. Mouthwash is an antiseptic and will cleanse your breath and ensure it smells nice for each use as well.  

Do you have any helpful hygiene hacks for your toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, or other dental products? Drop us a line, we love to hear your methods!