I got this tip from a yahoo article. After reading it and contemplating the loopholes of the author’s advice, I say that this may work.

To remove bacteria from your cleaning sponges and toothbrush, try microwaving them on high for 30 seconds. 30 seconds can kill the E. coli species. In the yahoo article, it cited that it only need to nuke the toothbrush on high for 10 seconds but I don’t think the more resistant bacteria can die under that short time. Investigating further brought me the answer that 2 minutes can inactivate 99% of the bacteria.

However the plastic handle of the toothbrush might melt, right?

So I did a little experiment and nuke my old toothbrush for 10sec. Nothing happened to the handle. I think at 30sec, the toothbrush is still safe.

Now before you start zapping your sponges and toothbrush, here are some safety guidelines:

  • Microwave only sponges or plastic scrubbers that do not contain steel or other metals.
  • Make sure the sponge or scrubber is WET, not dry or else it can cause a fire!
  • Two minutes should be enough to kill most disease-causing germs.
  • Be careful in removing the sponge from the microwave because it will be hot and should not be handled immediately after zapping.

And though you can do this every other day, replacing the sponge and toothbrush is still inevitable. If you see the sponge is tattered and grimy and stained, throw it away. If the bristles of the toothbrush are frayed and splayed out, throw it away. For those who are anti-microwave, you can disinfect your toothbrush by dipping it in listerine for 1 minute. It won’t help a lot but it’ll make you feel better :)

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