An expert has issued a stark warning about the dangers of where we leave our toothbrushes in the bathroom, highlighting a nasty health risk. Keeping your toothbrush near the toilet could result in it being “contaminated” with an array of unpleasant bacteria.
While it’s common knowledge that brushing teeth at least twice a day is essential for avoiding dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease, many might not realise that this daily habit could be subjecting them to harmful germs.
Brian Toward, bathroom expert and CEO of Wholesale Domestic, highlighted that placing your toothbrush too close to the loo is a “common blunder” which many people unsuspectingly make.
To avoid this, he suggests positioning toothbrushes “at least” one metre from the toilet. This advice comes amidst concerns that toothbrushes can become tainted with aerosol droplets when you flush the toilet.
Brian said: “Your toothbrush goes straight into your mouth, so should be stored at least one metre away from the toilet and ideally with a cover, especially in shared bathrooms. If it’s left too close, it can become contaminated by toilet spray, which may carry bacteria like E. coli. This can lead to illnesses such as gut infections and urinary tract infections. It’s also why you should always flush with the lid down.”
E.coli, the bacteria found in intestines which can cause severe food poisoning, is known to spread through faeces and also via tainted water and foodstuffs. Those unlucky enough to catch an infection might suffer from symptoms including diarrhoea, stomach pains, and vomiting.
Experts at Paradise Dental Associates agree with Brian’s advice. They warned: “Don’t store your toothbrush anywhere near the toilet. That’s because toilets are full of bacteria, and you don’t want those germs anywhere near your toothbrush. In fact, it’s best to keep your toothbrush as far away from the toilet as possible.”
They added: “If your bathroom is small and storage is limited, do put the toilet sit down before flushing and do put a cover on your toothbrush when it’s dry, between uses. Do disinfect your toothbrush regularly.”
Brian also warned: “Dentists recommend changing your toothbrush every three months but many people go far longer. Not only does an old toothbrush lose effectiveness, it also collects bacteria over time. If you’ve been ill, it’s even more important to switch out your toothbrush, otherwise you risk re-exposure to the illness even after you’ve recovered.”
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