The Bathroom Item You Should Avoid Storing On The Counter At All Costs (The Reason Is So Gross)

The one bathroom item that you should avoid storing atop your bathroom counter or vanity is your toothbrush. And the reason why is understandably gross. Still, many assume that it's perfectly harmless to leave their toothbrush perched conveniently on the bathroom sink, completely exposed and out in the open. However, as science reveals, that countertop spot in your bathroom is actually one of the worst places to keep your toothbrush. That's because every time you flush the nearby toilet, tiny droplets and aerosolized particles can drift through the air and land on nearby surfaces, including your toothbrush. Over time, those particles, combined with the bathroom's naturally humid environment, turn the bristles into a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew. Indeed, researchers have documented that toothbrushes quickly pick up pathogenic microbes, especially when stored in damp, exposed conditions.

Your bathroom vanity is incredibly germ-ridden and is just one of the things in your home you should be cleaning everyday. That's why experts warn you should never store your toothbrush on your bathroom countertop. The fewer airborne pathogens your toothbrush is exposed to, the better, so feel free to come up with a creative way to keep your toothbrush far from the toilet and under cover while maintaining airflow.

The good news is that it's easy to protect your toothbrush from this common bathroom danger. First, invest in a toothbrush holder or container that allows good airflow. Fully closed holders may trap moisture and create an ideal environment for bacteria to flourish; research shows that stationary humidity and damp conditions encourage microbial growth on oral hygiene tools. Next, always position that holder well away from the toilet. After all, flushing the toilet generates droplets that can travel up to 6 feet and settle on nearby surfaces, including your toothbrush. In fact, one comparative study found that toothbrushes stored close to toilets unequivocally exhibited contamination from flushing.

You should also begin a regular sanitizing habit. If you'd like, you can soak the brush head for a few minutes in a mild antibacterial rinse, such as diluted hydrogen peroxide or mouthwash, although the ADA notes that no commercial product can fully sanitize a toothbrush. Either way, rinse your toothbrush thoroughly in warm water, shake off the excess, and stand it upright to air dry. Moisture is the enemy, so remember that letting the bristles sit damp invites bacteria. Once your toothbrush is dry, move it to a different location. Toothbrush storage ideas include a medicine cabinet, linen closet, or high shelf. Make sure to replace the brush head or whole toothbrush every 3 to 4 weeks.