The 10 Best Toothbrush Sanitizers – [Reviews & Rankings]

Toothbrush sanitizers help keep our toothbrushes germ-free so you limit your exposure to harmful bacteria. We know we need to take care of our teeth, but we often don’t pay a lot of attention to our toothbrushes.

It may seem like a small thing, but toothbrushes can be a breeding ground for germs (Source) including E. coli and staphylococci (staph).

Toothbrush sanitizers help fight bacteria using ultraviolet light that kills most of the germs. All you need to do is remember to put your toothbrush into the sanitizer after you’ve used it.

There are different types of toothbrush sanitizers — some designed for the counter in your bathroom, some designed for multiple toothbrushes, and others designed so you can take them with you when you travel.

Are your gums receding? If your answer is yes, the problem could be traced to simply with your brushing technique. To address this problem, you should consider buying an electric toothbrush to solve your problem.

What is a Toothbrush Sanitizer?

A toothbrush sanitizer is a device that kills germs and bacteria using ultraviolet light. The UV light can destroy the nucleic acid bonds that form DNA. This damage or disruption of the DNA hinders bacteria from reproducing through cell division.

From small solutions that can be carried in a garment pocket to big countertop units, sanitizers come in different sizes and shapes. Some toothbrush sanitizers are designed for the entire family (i.e. for a few toothbrushes), while others are highly portable and perfect for travelers.

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Why Should I Use Toothbrush Sanitizers?

Most people use a transparent cap or plastic case for their toothbrushes. While this is a convenient way of storing toothbrushes, it is not hygienic. This will prevent your brush from drying properly, which increases the risk for bacteria and other pathogenic microorganisms.

Instead, consider using toothbrush sanitizers to:

• Kill harmful microorganisms on your toothbrush: Your toothbrush can be a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses. That’s because intense humidity and heat in the bathroom create ideal conditions for bacterial growth. The UV light is proven to kill bacteria and microbes.
• Get rid of an unpleasant odor and dirt: Toothbrush sanitizers can keep your toothbrush clean and odor-free. As a result, you will have peace of mind knowing that you’re brushing your teeth with a perfectly clean toothbrush.
• Improve your oral health: A dirty toothbrush can cause cavities by spreading bacteria in your mouth rather than killing them. Toothbrush sanitizers can keep your teeth and gums healthy by eliminating bacteria from your toothbrush.

How Much Does A Toothbrush Sanitizer Cost?

Toothbrush sanitizers can cost anywhere between $10 and $200. Such differences in the rates are usually based on the brand, features, size, and flexibility.

High-quality ones will be more expensive, but worth an investment as it will eliminate the bacteria and germs up to 99.99%.

Quick Comparison of the Top 5 Toothbrush Sanitizers

1. Philips Sonicare UV Sanitizer – The Best UV Toothbrush Sanitizer

Phillips has been making amazing electronic products for a very long time, so we were really excited to test the Philips Sonicare UV Sanitizer. Thankfully, it delivered on all fronts and became our number one pick for the best toothbrush sanitizers list.

This unit is capable of holding and cleaning two brush heads at a time. Hence, this is perfect for couples. Likewise, it can handle normal wear and tear with ease and looks sleek and sophisticated enough to fit in standard washrooms.

Additionally, it is also designed to be quickly used and comes with the latest technology. Philips claims that the Philips Sonicare UV Sanitizer is capable of eliminating 99.9% germs on your toothbrush. This means you’ll be kept safe from cold and cough as well.

Alongside that, this sanitizer can accommodate almost every toothbrush head. Furthermore, it boasts an automatic “turn off” feature after 10 minutes and a reflector that can spread the light evenly for even greater performance.

Finally, all you have to do is press the button placed on the top of the unit to effortlessly sanitize your toothbrush.

2. EJiasu Travel Toothbrush sanitizer – Best Travel Toothbrush Sanitizer

The eJiasu Travel Toothbrush Sanitizer is very affordable and available in two different colors. It is basically a compact jewel case that you can use to store any toothbrush, be it an electric one or a normal one.

Alongside that, it uses good quality anti-odor materials and is sturdily made, so you don’t have to worry about damaging it during your travels. It can also kill bacteria and prevent any kind of infectious disease, cavities, and gum diseases.

There are ultraviolet light bulbs inside the case that do most of the heavy lifting, which is extremely efficient and won’t need any replacement for a very long time. In fact, the company says it will last you as long as the case remains intact.

Additionally, we like how the eJiasu Travel Toothbrush sanitizer automatically turns on when the toothbrush is placed inside. There are no buttons to turn it on.

3. Linsam UV Toothbrush Holder – For the Whole Family

If you have a bigger family, then getting separate toothbrush sanitizers for everyone doesn’t make much sense. Thankfully, you don’t have to invest in multiple toothbrush sanitizers: the FDA-approved Linsam UV Toothbrush Holder provides that for you.

It is especially great if you have kids at home because germs can be more harmful to them. It is made of sturdy materials and won’t break during usage, which makes it perfect for kids alongside adult family members.

We also like how there are separate holders; you can easily put five brushes in it. Consequently, the cleaning process starts as soon as you close the lid, so you don’t have to actually press any buttons. It can be mounted on a wall, too.

Therefore, if you have a big family, this sanitizer is the best option available. It is easy to use, made out of anti-bacterial materials, and works automatically so your kids don’t have to fiddle around with anything.

4. Seasky Deep UV Toothbrush Sanitizer – Best Budget Toothbrush Sanitizer

The Seasky Deep UV Toothbrush Sanitizer is a portable sanitizer that you can take anywhere without much problem. It looks wonderfully sleek and stylish and allows you to sanitize your toothbrush with relative ease.

Notably, it is also small enough to be carried around in a purse or pocket without adding any bulk. So, if you are traveling and need a toothbrush sanitizer to go along, this is one of the best options available. On the other hand, it can easily be mounted on a wall in your bathroom as well.

It opens up to reveal a simple toothbrush holder. To use it, simply place the toothbrush inside and the whole process would only take around three minutes. The UV light will destroy the DNA structure found in the bodies of bacteria.

Finally, we like how you can quickly charge the Seasky Deep UV Toothbrush Sanitizer via USB. The UV light can also work for 12,000 hours, which is more than enough for common users. In addition to that, this product comes at a very reasonable price.

Besides brushing your teeth, mouthwash is a great addition to your day to day dental regime. A considerable number of people today shy off from using mouthwash solutions because of the tingling sensation they produce in the mouth. Check this great article on why does mouthwash burns?

5. Violife Zapi Luxe UV – Best Toothbrush Sanitizer for Kids

The Violife Zapi Luxe UV toothbrush sanitizer is specially made for kids. The product itself has a ninja design. Aside from that, it is also very easy to use.

All you need to do is insert your toothbrush into the unit and let it do its job. Ultraviolet light will sanitize the toothbrush in only six minutes. Additionally, it shuts down automatically when the sanitizing is completed.

Notably, this sanitizer can be used with any toothbrush, be it electric or manual. We also had no trouble using the smaller kid’s toothbrushes.

Alongside that, it is remarkably easy to clean with its removable drip tray. Likewise, you can simply wipe it from the inside as well. However, you’ll need three AA batteries to power the Violife Zapi Luxe UV.

6. Meco UV Toothbrush Holder – Most Versatile Toothbrush Sterilizer

You can say goodbye to germs and bacteria present on your toothbrushes for good with the Meco UV holder for toothbrushes. This UV holder is ideal for sterilizing toothbrushes to kill up to 99.998% of the germs to ensure a clean tool. Plus, it also keeps the brush dry after using it.

Multi-Storage Support

The Meco holder is designed to keep up to five toothbrushes in the rack for the complete family. It even includes a toothpaste dispenser in the unit to give more versatility and ease. You can keep your toothpaste locked in the dispenser and use the unit whenever needed.

Powerful UV Technology

To use its UV technology, you just need to plug it in the power outlet and turn it on with the silver button while keeping your brushes in the holders. Upon closing the lid, the UV light starts sterilizing the brushes. This procedure is automated. Thus, it turns off after five minutes.

This silicone-based environment-friendly unit can keep working for up to 25000 hours to offer UV of 1000uW/cm2 wavelength to keep your brushes clean. As it is a wall-mountable device, you can save space in your bathroom as well.

7. VioLife VIO200B – Most Portable UV Toothbrush Sanitizer

The Violife VIO200B UV Toothbrush Sanitizer utilizes high-quality UV light to take care of germs and bacteria. With its ample space, you can easily fit both electric and manual toothbrushes in it. Its superior-quality design includes a suction cup to keep your brushes free of contamination.

Battery-Operated Mode

The VIO200B uses 2 AA batteries to power its UV source. Upon turning on, it keeps the light active for six minutes before shutting again. Despite being battery-powered, it gives you a long lifespan to keep the airborne dust, bacteria, germs, etc., away.

Not to mention, the capable UV light on this tool is capable of killing viruses and bacteria such as E.Coli, Influenza, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and many others.

Highly Portable

Violife has designed this unit with a preference for travelers, which is why this lightweight compartment-based sterilizer is great for carrying with you on trips. Its portability is, without a doubt, appropriate for ensuring a clean toothbrush whenever and wherever. Keep in mind that it will not fit Sonicare electric toothbrush heads.

8. Germ Terminator Toothbrush Sterilizer – Best For Couples

The Germ Terminator promises an innovative vertical holder that utilizes steam instead of UV rays to eliminate bacteria and germs from toothbrushes. The case is designed in the form of an elevated stand with a transparent case to keep two brushes inside. This holder can sanitize both electric and manual toothbrushes.

Superior Hygiene

Steam is an excellent way of sterilizing dental equipment. Its 11.5 inches tall casing can keep most toothbrushes safely in it. It is also a preferred unit because of FDA approval. You can plug it with its adapter and use it conveniently.

You do need to add water at the base of the holder to let the coil inside the unit heat it and create steam. Once the steam reaches the brushes, it is an indication that the sanitization process is taking place. The Germ Terminator further proceeds with a dry heat operation to remove the moisture from the brush heads after sterilizing with steam.

Portable

Despite the need for a power outlet for using it, the Germ Terminator is quite portable. Its compact and lightweight size means you can take it anywhere you like and ensure that your toothbrushes stay clean.

9. Avari Dual Heat & UV Toothbrush Holder – Best High-Tech Sterilizer

The Avari Premium UV Toothbrush sterilizer is an efficient dual model that uses heat and UV to kill bacteria. Its unique design consists of a heating plate and a UV source to ensure high-end protection. Because of the high-end sterilization sources, you can expect it to keep your dental brushes clean, up to 99.9% of the time.

Quick Hygiene

Once the process for sanitizing the brushes is active, the whole process finishes up in around 10 minutes for quick usage. You do need to plug it in an AC power supply source to ensure continuous power for killing the bacteria present on the brushes.

Space-Friendly

To ensure space conservation in your bathroom, the Avari Dual UV and Heat holder comes with a wall-mount option. Furthermore, it even includes a compartment for your toothpaste.

An extra feature added to it is a notification sound when closing or opening the sterilizer’s door, just like a toaster or an oven. You can use it to store up to 5 toothbrushes and even make space for a razor.

10. MAXOAK DUV Toothbrush Sterilizer – High-Performance Toothbrush Sterilizer

If you are interested in a high-performing toothbrush sanitizer, then the MaxOak DUV sterilizer for dental care is worth an investment. Its primary feature is the DUV-C sterilizing technology that uses UVC-LED to create one of the purest light sources, with a wavelength of 250 to 280nm.

High-End Sterilizer

The DUV by MaxOak features a sanitizing capability of more than 3600 times that of a standard light. This feature enables it to eliminate germs and bacteria up to 99.9%. Once turned on, the case automatically stops with the sterilizing process after 3 minutes.

Superior Portability

The MaxOak DUV is compact and lightweight with a Lithium-ion battery-powered source (240mAh). It takes three hours to recharge it, but the sanitizing process is much faster to clean the brush head easily. And, you can use it up to 55 times after charging it fully.

Thus, it includes a USB cable to charge it wherever you carry it with you. You might not see the light in the closed case, but it does its work efficiently.

Do Toothbrush Sanitizers Work?

Toothbrush sanitizers have been tried and tested to show results in eliminating germs and bacteria. Many models are FDA-approved due to the presence of UV light or steam-generating elements.

However, these methods are still not capable of removing the bacterial presence a full 100%. You will always find that manufacturers will claim the killing of germs at most 99.99%.

Nevertheless, toothbrush sterilizers work, which are even recommended by dentists around the world.

How Do You Kill Germs On A Toothbrush?

For removing germs from a toothbrush, you can use UV light, boiling water, or steam to eliminate the presence of bacteria and germs from toothbrushes.

The most efficient way to do so is by using a UV-based or steam-based toothbrush sterilizer. You can also opt for sanitizers with certain features, such as portability, performance, etc.

Do make sure to choose sanitizing machines that have UV rays of appropriate wavelength for the best hygiene results. It should also be noted that you can only clean the toothbrush up to 99.99% maximum.

Does Listerine Disinfect Toothbrushes?

Many have been noted to use Listerine or other mouthwashes to clean their toothbrush bristles. They do so by keeping the brush heads in the solution overnight. This has been said to disinfect the brush to some extent.

However, excessively exposing the bristles to mouthwash solution will damage the bristles instead of treating them.

For proper disinfecting of your toothbrush, you should prefer a sterilizer machine. Such a machine uses UV rays or steam to kill the germs and bacteria present almost completely on the bristles.

Which Toothbrush Sanitizer Is Better: UV or Steam?

Steam sterilizers for toothbrushes are usually only meant to sanitize them. Any machine that has a steam function is just for sterilizing it.

On the other hand, UV sanitizers are more efficient. UV machines usually are multi-functional devices that not only sterilize but also have drying, storing, and self-cleaning features.

Another plus point of UV sterilizers is that they are capable of disinfecting other items as well, even clothes, phones, toys, etc., provided the unit has ample space for storage.

Steam sanitizers are not suitable for other items because the heat from the unit can damage certain materials.

How Long Do Germs Live On A Toothbrush?

Germs and other harmful microorganisms can live from a few hours to several days on toothbrushes. This time can vary depending upon the ecosystem generated on the brushes.

A moist brush head will generate more chances of bacterial growth. That’s why UV sterilizers for toothbrushes also have a dryer option to keep the bristles dry after sanitizing with the ultraviolet rays.

Does Longer Running Time Of A Toothbrush Sanitizer Help Clean It Better?

The longer the sanitizing time for a toothbrush, the better it is to maintain its hygiene. UV rays have been noted to work better at killing bacteria and germs if the brush stays exposed to the light for a longer duration.

That’s one reason you should choose UV toothbrush sterilizers that operate with a long disinfecting cycle, for instance, 10 minutes.

What Is The Difference Between Sterilize And Sanitize?

There is a difference between sanitizing and sterilizing. Many feel they are the same, but here is the difference.

The sanitizing process involves killing the bacteria at most 99.9%. That means, if there is a presence of 1 million bacteria on a surface, then only 1000 bacterial organisms will remain after 99.9% of the bacterial has been killed.

On the other hand, the sterilizing process is a way of killing all the bacteria. However, manufacturers will never state that 100% of the bacteria are eliminated in their sterilizers. They will only claim the sterilizing up to 99.99%, but never to the full extent.

There is still no commercial toothbrush sanitizer or sterilizer that can offer 100% elimination of bacteria. So, if some company claims it, then it might not be true.

Also, in the case of a toothbrush sterilizer or sanitizer, the terms are interchangeable, but the process can be different based on a UV-based or steam-based unit. So, you can choose either of them.

How Often Should I Change My Toothbrush?

Replace your toothbrush every three months. This will help you maintain good oral hygiene. People who suffer from oral infection should do it more often.

Toothbrush sanitizers can’t prolong the life of your toothbrush. They kill bacteria without impacting the wear on bristles by any means.

Damaged, split or frayed bristles are a consequence of tooth positioning, pressure, and brushing technique. This is damaging to both the gums and teeth, which is why you need to change your toothbrush regularly.

Mains Powered vs Battery-Powered Sanitizer: Which is Better?

• Mains powered sanitizers: They are powered from mains electricity and easier to maintain, as it’s not necessary to replace batteries continually. These devices tend to run for a bit longer. Mains powered sanitizers are large, so they can accommodate multiple toothbrushes at a time.
• Battery-powered sanitizers: Units with batteries are more versatile and portable. However, you will have to replace batteries regularly. They are usually designed for one or two toothbrushes.

How to Know if the Lamp in My Sanitizer is Working and Can I Replace It?

Some toothbrush sanitizers come with a light indicator. Otherwise, you will be able to see the lamp through the transparent body of your sanitizer.

The lamps can work from 5,000 to 7,000 hours on average. If the lamp has stopped working, you should open the lid and check the battery charge. So, can I replace it?

It depends on your toothbrush sanitizer. Most cheap and portable sanitizers don’t have a replaceable lamp. This is why you should choose a toothbrush sanitizer with a replaceable bulb.

Things to Consider While Buying a Toothbrush Sanitizer

There are not a lot of factors that you need to consider while purchasing a toothbrush sanitizer.

However, it is better to go in prepared to get the best product for your personal needs. Here are a few minor things you should keep in mind while shopping for a toothbrush sanitizer:

Capacity

Some toothbrush sanitizers only sanitize one toothbrush at a time. If you are a single person, that is the perfect toiletry case for you. However, if you have multiple people in your household, you need to invest in a toothbrush sanitizer that can accommodate more brushes at the same time.

Portability

If you travel a lot, investing in a portable toothbrush sanitizer makes a lot of sense. However, if you simply need a toothbrush sanitizer at home, it makes financial sense to invest in a wall-mounted one.

Battery Timing

Most toothbrush sanitizers come with a built-in battery or run on standard batteries. So, if you’re traveling, you may want to keep an eye on how long the sanitizer works before running out of juice. It’s not a big deal if you have one at home, but during travels, it is important to take note of this.

Buy The Right Toothbrush Sanitizer For You

For your total oral health, you should also ensure that the toothbrush you are using also stays clean for reuse every time. That’s why toothbrush sanitizers exist to give your brush the hygienic cleaning it needs.

This guide offers you some of the best toothbrush sterilizers to stay healthy and germ-free. Even if you are confused to find the right one, you can have a better idea of which one to suit your needs through this post.

We included different types of UV toothbrush sanitizers so that there are a lot of options available for you to choose from because toothbrush sanitizers are almost essential in this day and age. Your oral hygiene does not end here. Find more guides related to dental and oral care below.

If you have any questions, concerns, or suggestions, feel free to talk to us in the comments. We always love to hear from you. 

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