Buying guide for best toothbrush holders
Are you storing your toothbrush correctly? According to the American Dental Association, toothbrushes should be stored upright in a well-ventilated area to promote proper drying and prevent microbial growth. Toothbrush holders allow you to do just that, and some even offer extra storage space for everything from hand soap to razors. Whether you're trying to boost toothbrush hygiene or simply want to reduce bathroom clutter, a toothbrush holder is a worthwhile investment.
However, with countless options available, pinpointing the best toothbrush holder can be a challenge. Holder type, capacity, mounting method, and special features (such as built-in toothpaste dispensers) are just a handful of important considerations to keep in mind while you shop.
This buying guide is packed with helpful information and handy tips to help you choose a toothbrush holder.
Most toothbrush holders are excellent multitaskers, and many come with extra compartments to help keep your bathroom organized and tidy.
Key considerations
Freestanding vs. mounted
Toothbrush holders come in designs that range from classic and simple to modern and high-tech. While style and features can vary dramatically from model to model, all toothbrush holders can be classified as either freestanding or mounted.
Freestanding
If you have a bit of counter space to spare and like the idea of hassle-free setup, a freestanding toothbrush holder is worth considering. These toothbrush holders stand directly on your bathroom countertop and require no installation whatsoever. While there is a good possibility of water collecting at the bottom of solid models, most free-standing toothbrush holders are relatively easy to clean, especially with the help of a small bottle brush.
Mounted
If you have limited counter space or simply prefer to keep your surfaces clear and clutter-free, a mounted toothbrush holder is the way to go. These toothbrush holders attach to smooth surfaces, like mirrors or tiles, to help save on valuable counter space. Rather than standing upright in the holder, toothbrushes slide into pre-cut slots and hang by their heads.
Covered vs. uncovered
Keeping your toothbrush covered might seem more hygienic than leaving the bristles exposed, but this isn't always the case. Without adequate airflow, your toothbrush won't be able to dry properly, creating an ideal environment for microbial growth. If you're concerned about free-floating bathroom bacteria ending up on your bristles, storing your toothbrush well away from the toilet is a healthier alternative to covering it. Or, if you share a bathroom and just don't feel comfortable leaving your toothbrush uncovered, opt for a ventilated covered toothbrush holder instead.
Capacity
Toothbrush holders come in a range of sizes, with the number of toothbrush slots varying from as few as two to as many as six. If you have multiple toothbrushes to store, make sure the toothbrush holder you're eyeing has enough space to accommodate all of them. Extra slots on freestanding toothbrush holders can even be used to store items such as razors, toothpaste, and slim tubes of shaving cream.
Mounting method
Mounted toothbrush holders typically attach to surfaces via suction cups or adhesive strips. Suction cups can be ideal for those who are renting, but they must be attached to certain surfaces, like mirrors or tiles, for a secure hold. If this isn't possible or you're concerned about suction cup strength, you may want to explore toothbrush holders that use adhesive strips for installation. These models generally provide a stronger hold and can be installed on just about any smooth surface.
Think about your bathroom décor before selecting a toothbrush holder. Is it bright and cheerful or sleek and modern? Choosing a toothbrush holder that blends well with the rest of your bathroom will help tie it in with your existing style.
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Features
Toothpaste dispensers
Some mounted toothbrush holders come with built-in toothpaste dispensers. If you have little ones who struggle to squeeze out toothpaste or housemates who consistently forget to put the cap back on, a built-in toothpaste dispenser can help reduce frustration. Most toothpaste dispensers are designed to minimize waste by squeezing out every last drop, making them a top choice for frugal households.
UV lights
UV (ultraviolet) lights are another unique feature found in some mounted toothbrush holders. UV lights destroy viruses and bacteria by breaking down the molecular bonds that hold them together. While they probably won't kill all the bacteria on your toothbrush, studies show that exposure to UV lights is much more effective at removing germs compared to soaking toothbrushes in saline or mouthwash.
Extra storage space
Are you looking for a way to declutter your bathroom counters? Choosing a toothbrush holder with extra storage space can be a fantastic way to keep items like razors, combs, toothpaste, and hand soap organized. A larger wall-mounted model with a flat top can even double as a bathroom shelf — just take care not to overload it, or your whole setup could come crashing down.
Cups
Many toothbrush holders come with cups for rinsing after you brush. The cups are often designed to be stored upside down over your toothbrush head, acting as loose, well-ventilated toothbrush covers to help keep your toothbrush dust- and germ-free.
DID YOU KNOW?
Storing your toothbrush in a medicine cabinet or drawer might seem like a good way to keep the bristles free of dust and bacteria, but it could end up doing more harm than good. Small sealed-off spaces like bathroom cabinets can quickly become moist and humid, encouraging microbial growth.
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Accessories
UV toothbrush sanitizer: Pursonic S1 Portable UV Toothbrush Sanitizer
UV toothbrush sanitizers are an effective and convenient way to rid your toothbrush of harmful bacteria. If your toothbrush holder doesn't come with one, consider purchasing a separate UV toothbrush sanitizer.
Bathroom shelves: HOMFA 3-Tier Bamboo Bathroom Shelf
Bathroom shelves can be an excellent storage solution if you're short on counter and cabinet space. Most are relatively affordable and easy to install and can be used to store anything from towels to freestanding toothbrush holders.
Toothbrush holder prices
Inexpensive: Simple toothbrush holders in freestanding and mounted designs generally start around $6. These toothbrush holders tend to be very basic and usually only accommodate up to four toothbrushes and a tube of toothpaste.
Mid-range: For $6 to $15, you can pick and choose from a wide variety of toothbrush holders in just about any style and configuration. Many toothbrush holders in this price range offer desirable features such as extra storage space, UV lights, and toothpaste dispensers.
Expensive: Extra-large toothbrush holders, ornamental models, and sets that include other items such as toothpaste dispensers, UV sanitizers, or hand soap bottles usually cost from $15 to $25.
If you’re concerned about adhesive reliability, adding a couple of extra strips of double-sided tape to a wall-mounted toothbrush holder can provide a more secure hold. However, this usually isn't necessary.
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Tips
- Position your toothbrush holder away from the toilet. Germs and bacteria spray up into the air each time you flush the toilet. Short of monitoring every person who uses the toilet to make sure they put the lid down before flushing, placing your toothbrush holder away from the toilet is the best way to keep bacteria away from your bristles.
- Clean your toothbrush holder regularly. Keep your toothbrush holder hygienic by cleaning it once a week. If your toothbrush holder can't be washed, consider wiping it down with an antimicrobial cleaner.
- Keep toothbrush heads separated. You probably already know not to share your toothbrush, but it's just as important to keep toothbrush heads separated. While the bacteria on your toothbrush isn't likely to do you any harm, introducing foreign bacteria from someone else's toothbrush can quickly lead to infections and illness. If you're sharing a toothbrush holder with family, take care to angle toothbrush heads away from one another.
- Make sure your toothbrush holder allows for adequate airflow. Storing a moist toothbrush in an unventilated covered toothbrush holder is a surefire way to promote microbial growth. Avoid covered toothbrush holders that don't come with holes for air circulation.
Clean your toothbrush holder regularly, and remember to replace your toothbrush at least once every three months to help keep up good oral hygiene.
FAQ
Q. Do electric toothbrushes require special holders?
A. Many modern toothbrush holders are designed to accommodate just about any toothbrush type. However, there are some that don't, so it's a good idea to check manufacturer specifications before you buy. If this information isn't available and you have your heart set on a particular model, reach out to the manufacturer — most are more than happy to assist.
Q. How can I clean a freestanding toothbrush holder with narrow toothbrush slots?
A. If your toothbrush holder slots are too narrow to allow for proper cleaning, using a small bottle brush or straw cleaner can be a fantastic solution. Simply soak your toothbrush holder in soapy water, and use a bottle brush to reach through the slots and scrub the inside. Rinse well, and give it time to dry properly before replacing your toothbrushes.
Q. How much weight can a wall-mounted toothbrush holder hold?
A. Exactly how much weight a wall-mounted toothbrush holder can withstand depends on a number of factors, including size and the strength of the adhesive. Many larger models can hold up to 10 pounds. However, it's wise to check the maximum weight capacity before you load your toothbrush holder, as this can vary dramatically from model to model.
