However, after you are sick, my general recommendation is to replace your toothbrush. It’s an easy fix to make sure lingering bacteria doesn’t lead to reinfection or get passed on to family members. This makes a lot more sense than trying to clean your toothbrush by boiling it or by using hydrogen peroxide or vinegar.
How do you sterilize a toothbrush in the microwave?
Place toothbrush vertically (brush head up) in a microwave-safe container. Using a microwave-safe container, place toothbrush head-down in about 6.5 ounces of sterilized water. Eliminate bacteria buildup by submerging your toothbrush into one of these solutions after brushing for 10-20 minutes.
Can you sterilize a toothbrush in boiling water?
Although boiling water can be a bit harsh on the plastic of your brush, it does a great job killing the bacteria that builds up over time. Boil a small pot of water on the stove and dip the head of your toothbrush in the rolling boil for at least three minutes to kill most germs.
Can you get sick again from your toothbrush?
When you get sick, your immune system produces specific antibodies to fight off virus causing your infection. These antibodies remain on hand, protecting you from catching the same virus again. 3 This is why, even after recovering, the cold or flu germs on your toothbrush won’t make you sick again.
Should you brush your teeth when your sick?
1. Brush your teeth well. Being sick can be exhausting, but make sure to brush and floss. Remember to spend at least two minutes brushing your teeth at least twice a day.
Should I throw out my toothbrush after Covid?
Replacing Your Toothbrush: You should always be swapping out your toothbrush or brush head every three months. However, if you’ve been sick you’ll want to throw out your brush, even if it’s not that time yet.
How do you clean your toothbrush when you are sick?
Once a week, you can also soak your toothbrush in antimicrobial mouthwash for a few minutes or in a mixture of water, vinegar, and baking soda for 30 minutes. Commercial toothbrush sanitizers might work for you in keeping harmful oral bacteria from causing mayhem in your mouth.
Can you sterilize your toothbrush?
The most basic go-to method of sanitizing your toothbrush is to run hot water over the bristles before and after each use. This gets rid of bacteria that may have collected on the toothbrush in the hours between brushings. It also eliminates new bacteria which may have accumulated after each use.
Should I replace my toothbrush after a cold?
Always replace your toothbrush after a cold or other illness to prevent contamination. If you or someone else in your family is sick, that person should use a different tube of toothpaste (travel size, for example), to prevent spreading germs to other toothbrushes.
How do I clean my toothbrush after stomach flu?
Disinfect your toothbrush with hydrogen peroxide. A recent study showed that a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution was 100% effective in killing the bacteria on a toothbrush. So, if you’re worried about it, just soak your toothbrush for twenty minutes.
What is the best thing to take for a stomach virus?
Your doctor may prescribe an antiemetic such as promethazine, prochlorperazine, metoclopramide, or ondansetron to stop the nausea and vomiting. You can also try an over-the-counter antidiarrheal medication, such as loperamide hydrochloride (Imodium) or bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol).
What is good for a stomach virus?
Gradually begin to eat bland, easy-to-digest foods, such as soda crackers, toast, gelatin, bananas, rice and chicken. Stop eating if your nausea returns. Avoid certain foods and substances until you feel better. These include dairy products, caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and fatty or highly seasoned foods.
Does vitamin C help with stomach virus?
One older test-tube study found that vitamin C inactivated a virus that causes the stomach bug and prevented it from multiplying ( 3 ). Furthermore, diets that regularly incorporate foods rich in vitamin C may help protect your digestive system ( 4 ).
