when your cleaning tools need to be cleaned

We talk a lot about how to keep our bodies, our hair, and our faces clean, but a clean routine needs clean tools! How do we keep our loofah’s, facial cleansing brushes, retainer cases, and toothbrushes bacteria-free and safe to use? Two words: dry + clean. The easiest + most effective way to make sure your hygiene tools stay clean is to make sure they are cleaned out + able to dry fully after each use, because, as we know, moisture is bacteria’s best friend.

For retainer cases, toothbrush holders, contact lens cases, or anything else that stores things that go in or on your body it is important to make sure that they are properly cleaned and dried so that bacteria cannot grow inside of them.

As for toothbrushes themselves, following similar instructions, rinsing with warm water after brushing and making sure they dry fully to avoid bacteria growth, will keep them clean. Another factor in replacing them, however, is the condition of the bristles. As soon as the head of the toothbrush begins to look worn out or the bristles start pointing out in different directions, it is time to replace your toothbrush, or the head if you are using an electric toothbrush. Expect to have to change your toothbrush every 1-3 months. 

For loofahs or anything else you would use to scrub in the shower, it is important that they are moved out of the shower to dry completely so that they don’t get wet again as soon as someone else uses the shower. This will prevent bacteria growth. Even doing this, you should still replace your scrubbing tools about every month.

Many people don’t immediately think of cleaning the things you use to clean yourself as an important part of good hygiene. However, in a clean hygiene routine, clean tools are an essential part of taking care of yourself. So remember to take care of your tools + avoid bacteria growth so you can continue to have healthy hygiene habits!