With a plethora of bathroom habits we’ve cultivated over the years, there’s one that might be doing more harm than good. We’re talking about keeping your toothbrush near the toilet. You might be surprised (and a bit disgusted) to learn about the hazardous consequences of this seemingly innocent habit.
1. The Splash Effect
When you flush the toilet, water particles containing bacteria and viruses are launched into the air. This phenomenon, dubbed the “toilet plume,” can reach as far as six feet. That means if your toothbrush is within this radius, it’s likely to get sprayed with these microorganisms.
Microbes such as E. coli and streptococcus, which are commonly found in the gut and mouth, respectively, can be included in this toilet plume. If these land on your toothbrush and you use it, you’re essentially putting these bacteria back into your body. A potential result? Infections and diseases.
2. Contaminated Toothbrush
Keeping your toothbrush near the toilet increases the risk of contamination. And it’s not just the toilet plume you should worry about. Bacteria from the sink, soap dispenser, and even the air can make their way onto your toothbrush. This bacterial cocktail can lead to oral health issues like gum diseases and tooth decay.
To avoid this, consider getting a toothbrush sanitizer. These devices use UV light to kill bacteria and other microorganisms, ensuring your toothbrush is clean before each use.
3. Ineffective Cleaning
Another potential issue with keeping your toothbrush in the bathroom is ineffective cleaning. The damp environment makes it an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. If your toothbrush doesn’t dry properly between uses, it can harbor these harmful microorganisms, diminishing its effectiveness at cleaning your teeth.
Try to keep your toothbrush in a dry, well-ventilated area, and change it every three to four months. If the bristles become frayed or worn out before this time, replace it immediately.
4. Cross-contamination
If multiple toothbrushes are stored together in a cup or holder, they can easily cross-contaminate each other. Bacteria from one toothbrush can transfer to another, especially if they touch. This can lead to the spread of infections, particularly if one person is sick.
Avoid cross-contamination by using a toothbrush holder with separate compartments. This ensures that the toothbrushes don’t touch and keeps them upright, allowing them to dry properly.
5. Mold and Mildew Growth
Bathrooms are often humid, which makes them a prime location for mold and mildew growth. If your toothbrush is stored in such an environment, it could develop mold on the handle or even between the bristles. This can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues if inhaled or ingested.
Try to keep your toothbrush in a dry area and clean the toothbrush holder regularly to prevent mold and mildew growth. Using a toothbrush cover can also help, but ensure it has ventilation holes to allow the toothbrush to dry.
6. Increased Allergy and Asthma Symptoms
Bacteria and mold spores from the bathroom air can get onto your toothbrush and be inhaled or ingested, which can trigger allergy symptoms or worsen asthma in sensitive individuals. Symptoms can include sneezing, itchy eyes, and difficulty breathing.
If you or a family member has allergies or asthma, consider keeping your toothbrushes in a separate room or invest in a toothbrush sanitizer to reduce the risk of triggering symptoms.
7. Potential for Chemical Exposure
We often clean our bathrooms with harsh chemicals to keep them spotless. However, these chemicals can linger in the air and settle on surfaces, including your toothbrush. This could lead to unintentional ingestion of these chemicals, which could have adverse health effects.
To avoid this, store your toothbrush in a closed cabinet or drawer during cleaning, and air out the bathroom thoroughly after. You could also switch to using natural cleaning products that are less likely to cause harm if accidentally ingested.
8. Bacterial Biofilms
Bacterial biofilms are a group of microorganisms that stick together on a surface in a glue-like substance. These biofilms can form on your toothbrush and are resistant to traditional cleaning methods. They can lead to oral health issues if they get into your mouth.
Soaking your toothbrush in an antibacterial mouthwash for a few minutes before using it can help break down these biofilms and keep your toothbrush clean.
9. Unwanted Pests
Bathrooms can sometimes become a refuge for unwanted pests like cockroaches or silverfish. If these pests come into contact with your toothbrush, they could leave behind bacteria or other harmful substances.
Keeping your bathroom clean and your toothbrush stored in a closed cabinet or drawer can help deter pests and keep your toothbrush safe.
In conclusion, keeping your toothbrush near the toilet is a seemingly innocent habit that can have numerous harmful consequences. By being aware of these risks and taking steps to mitigate them, you can ensure that your toothbrush is clean and safe to use, contributing to your overall oral health.
