Most people clean their bathrooms at least once a week, however, they don’t think to clean items that sit on shelves and around the sink. According to a 2011 study done by the National Sanitation Foundation, the toothbrush holder is the third germiest place in the whole house!
That is because when people clean their bathrooms, they really scrub and disinfect the counter tops, faucet handles and the toilet. They don’t consider that their toothbrush is handled at least once during the day then put away in the toothbrush holder.
Most people dismiss the buildup of toothpaste in their toothbrush holder not realizing it is a great place for bacteria and germs to hide. After they brush their teeth, they rinse the toothbrush and put it back in the holder. Water will then run down the handle and pool in the bottom of the toothbrush holder. The water can pick up bacteria and germs which in turns deposits it on the bottom.
Another reason bacteria and germs grow is because the bathroom is the one room with the most humidity. Humid climates are perfect for bacteria and germs to multiply. In some climates, the humidity draws in bugs like cockroaches who walk through all sorts of contaminated area and leave deposits behind.
What is the most effective way to clean a toothbrush holder?
If you don’t use a house cleaning service, and you have not cleaned your toothbrush holder in a long time, if ever, here are some simple steps for an effective first cleaning.
- If you can take the toothbrush holder apart, carefully pull apart and set on a clean cloth.
- Fill a sink or pail with the hottest water you have, add some dishwasher liquid and put the toothbrush holder in it.
- Let it soak for at least ten minutes.
- Using your dishwasher gloves, dampen a clean cloth and wash the toothbrush holder removing all residue inside and out. You may need to get a pipe cleaner or Q-tip to get into the corners.
- Rinse thoroughly and dry with a clean cloth. Then add your toothbrushes back in the holder.
From that point on, if your toothbrush holder is dishwasher safe, you can place it in the dishwasher once a week or more often if you choose. Be sure to check that there is no toothpaste buildup prior to washing.
This article has been brought to you by Tampa House Cleaning Service. They have been cleaning homes in the greater Tampa, Florida area for years. Their housekeeping professionals are thoroughly vetted before they are hired. Each applicant must pass a credit report and have a clean background history.
Once a housekeeper is hired, they are put through a vigorous training program before they are sent out with a house cleaning team. They are all licensed, bonded and insured to protect the homeowner or renter.
