Benefits Of Using a Bamboo Toothbrush: Why They're Better Than Plastic

In fact, it has been about two years since I changed to the bamboo toothbrush, and to be frank with you, I wish that I had made that change earlier. When this trend first caught my attention, the first thought that crossed my mind was that it was yet another environment-friendly fad that would soon fade away.

Let me take you through the reasons you should consider switching to bamboo toothbrushes and the way that bamboo toothbrushes are superior to plastic toothbrushes.

A Problem with Plastic We’re Not Talking About

Here's something that just blew me away: Each year in America, one billion plastic toothbrushes are disposed of. That's one billion with a 'B.' It'll take each one of those toothbrushes 400 years to decompose in the landfill. Take that in for a second. The toothbrush you had as a kid is still in a landfill today.

Toothbrushes made from plastic are made from polypropylene and nylon plastics which are non-biodegradable plastics. They just lie there until they break down into smaller plastics called microplastics that wash up in our oceans to end up in our food chain.

At least when I took the time to realize that every toothbrush that had EVER BEEN in my possession was still in existence somewhere on this Earth, it was almost daunting. This was the point that sustainable oral care began to be more than just ‘a buzzword’ to me.

The alarming statistics related to plastic toothbrushes:

• Over 1 billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away annually in the US alone

• Each toothbrush takes 400+ years to decompose in landfills

• Most end up in oceans, breaking down into harmful microplastics

• The average person uses 300 toothbrushes in their lifetime

• Zero percent of plastic toothbrushes get recycled due to mixed materials

What Makes Bamboo Different

Bamboo is one of the world's most rapid-growing crops. We are talking here about rates that can reach 3 feet in one day. It doesn't require any pesticides, fertilizers, or water to grow. It virtually grows on its own; that's rather amazing if you consider the plastics found in normal toothbrushes that come from petroleum.

The toothbrush bamboo is inherently anti-bacterial. This means that without any aid from chemicals, it inhibits bacteria from growing. The handles of your toothbrush are also kept clean without any extra aid, which is an added advantage that took me by surprise.

Additionally, bamboo grows again from its own roots after harvesting. You do not need to replant it. Harvest it and cut it down, and it will regrow again. It is one of the most renewable resources that we use to produce day-to-day commodities.

Why bamboo is the ideal toothbrush material:

• Will grow 3 feet in one day without the use of pesticides and fertilizer

• Naturally Antimicrobial Properties - Resists Bacteria Growth

• It regenerates from its own roots after harvesting

• Needs less water compared to other crops

• Manufactures 35% more oxygen than similar trees

• Harvestable after 3-5 years compared to 30+ years to mature hardwood trees

What Really Provides Environmental Benefits You Can Feel Good About

When I share info about bamboo toothbrush benefits with pals, the first thing that pops up is the environment. Yeah, no kidding; that one matters.

A sustainable toothbrush that is made from bamboo is biodegradable. The bamboo toothbrush decomposes in about one to three years. This may be compared to 400 years if made from plastic. This is definitely much better. It is a whole lot better.

The process of making bamboo toothbrushes requires much less energy compared to plastic toothbrush production. In fact, there is no petroleum extraction, chemical factories, or huge carbon footprint creation. It is all about bamboo that is taken, cut, shaped, and distributed.

The packaging is also an important consideration. Packaging matters are that most bamboo toothbrush packs come in cardboard packaging that is recyclable rather than plastic clamshell packaging. The entire process involved in the use of the toothbrush results in less waste.

Bamboo vs Plastic: The Battle Royale

They Actually Work Just as Well

I'll be honest. My biggest concern was whether the toothbrush would clean well enough to take care of the bacteria in my mouth. Would the bristles be weird? Would the handle get gross and moldy in my bathroom?

The truth is that none of those things occurred. The bristles found on bamboo toothbrushes are made from nylon (just like plastic toothbrush handles) or even castor oil. They are just as effective. The difference eluded even my dentist.

The grip feels good in your hand. It's sleek and sturdy and doesn't end up full of water if you dry it out between each use. Instead of stashing mine in a closed cabinet, I put it in a cup on the counter, and it stays perfectly clean and dry.

Some people are concerned about splinters. But I personally use bamboo toothbrushes and haven't had a splinter in the past two years. They are sanded and sealed by nature. It's just not a problem.

Performance comparison you need to know:

• Cleaning efficacy: The same as plastic toothbrushes

• Bristle types: Soft, medium, firm (just like plastic)

• Long Lasting: Has the same 3-month durability as recommended by dentists

• Handle grip: Smooth to hold, with no splinters

• Water-resistance: Remains unchanged if thoroughly dried after each use

• Dentist approved: Meets the same oral hygiene standards

Cost Comparison That Might Surprise You

Bamboo toothbrushes were rather costly before; however, the prices are more affordable these days. They are accessible from $3 to $8 each, depending on the brand and quality.

You can get them in multi-packages (and that’s what I do), and it becomes even cheaper. I paid $30 for a package of twelve; that means $2.50 per toothbrush. That’s even cheaper compared to what I was buying earlier.

The zero-waste toothbrush strategy also saves money in other aspects. You are no longer buying products that come packaged in excessive packaging. You are no longer contributing to the landfill costs that each one of us pays in taxes anyway. This is one of those instances where the more ecologically friendly solution is no more costly to you.

Real Price Breakdown

The difference in price is essentially negligible if you look at the bigger picture here. You are talking about maybe $10 a year difference in terms of price for a family of four.

The Disposal Of Your Toothbrush Made From Bamboo

This will be more straightforward than you might think. When your bamboo toothbrush has reached the end of its lifespan (three months—just like every other toothbrush), you'll be left with these choices.

The handle can be placed straight into your compost bin. Better yet if you are composting in your backyard. It will decompose together with your food and yard trash.

First, take out the bristles since most are still made of nylon. The best way to remove them is to use pliers to remove them. This should take about 30 seconds. These are disposed of through normal trash, but again, that’s still garbage compared to disposing of the whole toothbrush made of plastic.

Some companies are also manufacturing toothbrushes with plant-based components that are fully compostable. These are still on my list to try; I haven't gotten to them yet. The technology related to sustainable oral care products just keeps improving.

Step-by-step disposal guide:

1. Use pliers to grip the bristles at the root

2. Pull sharply to remove the whole bunch (bristles) (30 seconds)

3. Throw away whiskers in regular trash

4. Incorporate the bamboo handle into the compost bin

5. Breaking the handle into smaller chunks facilitates faster decomposition (optional)

6. If there isn't any compost to use, then you can bury the handle in your garden or yard trash

Alternative uses before disposal:

• Plant markers for garden use

• DIY activities with children

• Sticks for stirring paint

• Camping fire starters, kindling wood

• Cleaning aid - tight spaces

Switching to Eco-Friendly Oral Hygiene Practices

If you are thinking about switching to bamboo toothbrushes, here's what I would recommend: just get one. Purchase one toothbrush and use it for three months. You'll see if you like it. You don't need to change toothbrushes for everyone in your household at the same time.

First, though, I changed just the toothbrush. My family thought that was weird. But after a few weeks, my daughter came to me and asked if she could get one. Now the whole family uses them and doesn't think it's such a sacrifice to brush with them.

The change will happen without altering your daily activities. You brush your teeth in the same manner and over the same duration with the same toothpaste. The only change that will take place is with your toothbrush after brushing your teeth.

Your easy transition checklist:

• Begin with one toothbrush for yourself

• Put it in a cup/handler with air flow (not closed cabinet)

• Use your usual toothpaste and brushing routine

• Let it dry completely between uses

• Change every 3 months like other toothbrushes

• Then keep the whole family comfortable

• Purchase multiple items to save money

Beyond the Toothbrush: Other Bamboo Products You Can Consider

When I began to use bamboo toothbrushes myself, other bamboo items caught my attention. Interestingly enough, bamboo has numerous uses in daily products.

The reason I got an engraved bamboo toothbrush was that it was for my sister. She was thrilled to see her name on something that mattered to her. Going green doesn't have to be boring; this gift definitely shows her that without necessarily telling her.

My kitchen makeover also got extended to bamboo. I opted to use eco-friendly coconut bowls made from recycled coconut shells; these are ideal for eating smoothie bowls and salads. They are lovely to look at, durable, and prevent plastic pollution.

Bamboo utensils, cutting boards, and even clothing are definitely things that are worth researching. The more that I learned about bamboo as an option, the more I realized that there are many plastics in our homes that we can substitute with this product.

Other bamboo swaps to consider:

• Bamboo Utensils to reduce Lunch

• Bamboo chopping boards (naturally antibacterial)

• Bamboo straws instead of plastic or metal

• Bamboo toilet paper (amazingly soft)

• Bamboo cotton buds

• Bamboo dish brushes and scrubbers

• Bamboo food storage containers

FAQ

Does a bamboo toothbrush get moldy?
Not if you allow it to dry. Mine sits in a cup on the counter with air circulation all around it. You'll be fine as long as it's not in a closed cabinet with moisture.

Are bamboo toothbrushes sanitary?
Yes. Bamboo has antimicrobial properties that actually make it more resistant to bacteria than plastic. Research has shown that there are fewer bacteria found on bamboo surfaces compared to plastic surfaces.

How long do they last?
The same applies to plastic toothbrush handles. Dentists advise that you change your toothbrush every three months or sooner if the bristles are frayed. That's not different with bamboo toothbrush handles.

Can kids use bamboo toothbrushes?
Of course. They come in smaller variants designed for use by children, just like plastic toothbrushes. My daughter has been using one since she was six with no issue.

Will the handle splinter in my mouth?
No. The bamboo is sanded smooth and sealed. I have had the chair for two years and no splinters. This is the most common question that people ask, and this concern is entirely bogus.

Are they TSA-approved for travel?
Yes. Bamboo toothbrushes are allowed in carry-ons. In fact, dozens of flights with mine and nothing has happened.

The Bigger Picture

The changeover to bamboo toothbrushes will not save the world. Of that, I am certainly well aware. But it is part of something much bigger that is happening in terms of our thinking about the products that we use daily.

When you buy an ecologically friendly toothbrush, you are making an economic statement. You are telling companies that you are concerned about the environment. You are encouraging companies that are attempting to improve.

What matters more is that you are establishing in yourself that change is possible. Don't you think that if you are changeable with something as trivial as your toothbrush that you can be changeable with other things as well?

Effect of Your Switch Over Time

The bamboo toothbrush benefits go beyond just reducing plastic waste. It has to do with making more mindful choices about what and how you consume. It has to do with making sure that your kids (if you are parents) understand that we can make different choices that are more environmentally friendly without losing anything in the process.

What to Look for When Buying

Not all bamboo toothbrushes are created equal. Here's what I learned the hard way so you don't have to.

Quality indicators:

• 100% biodegradable bamboo handle (check for coatings)

• BPA-Free B

• Smooth sealed surface on the handle

• Packing cardboard/cartons, compostable packaging

• Clear information regarding bristle materials

• Branding transparency on sourcing

Red flags to avoid:

• Plastic coating on bamboo handle

• Excessive plastic packaging

• Vague descriptions about materials

• Artificially colored handles (adds chemicals)

• Prices that seem too good to be true

• No information about bristle disposal

My Final Thoughts

It was about two years ago that I found bamboo toothbrushes to be a little ridiculous. But trust me, after taking the step to change to bamboo toothbrushes from plastics, there’s no switching back! Your toothbrush is something that you use twice daily, every day.

This is one of the most reliable items that you use on a daily basis. To make that one item sustainable has caused a ripple effect in the way that you think about all other items.

If you’ve had questions about trying a zero-waste toothbrush but haven’t gotten around to it yet, this is your sign to take the plunge. Take one home with you. Try it. You might be surprised. The worst that can happen is you’ll be out a few dollars. The best that can happen is that you will find an easy way to lower your impact that works.

Quick action steps to get started:

• Order a single bamboo toothbrush online or pick one up at your local health food store

• Mark your calendar for 3 months from now to replace it

• Store it properly in an open-air holder

• Notice how it feels and performs (I bet you'll be pleasantly surprised)

• Share your experience with friends who might be curious

• Consider switching other household items once you're comfortable

The planet doesn't need a few people doing sustainable living perfectly. It needs millions of people doing it imperfectly. A bamboo toothbrush is a pretty easy place to start.