How To Dispose Of And Repurpose An Old Toothbrush

Learning how to properly dispose of and reuse older items are important parts of a sustainable lifestyle. By repurposing an item at the end of its life, you can extend the lifespan of that item by months or even years by not throwing it away. Plastic toothbrushes take years to break down, so it’s best to find ways to use them once the bristles have frayed that don’t involve brushing teeth. Even though a bamboo toothbrush will eventually decompose, you can still find ways to reuse it!

OPTION 1: REUSE

Toothbrushes can have a variety of uses around the house! Use the toothbrush and a natural cleaning solution to clean hard to reach areas in your bathroom such as gaps between tile or around the sink drain.  

The soft bristles of an old toothbrush can also be used to gently dust electronics such as keyboards, wifi routers, and other appliances. 

Have a pair of shoes that needs a deep cleaning? Mix together mild, plant-derived detergent with water and scrub the dirt away. 

If you’re feeling a little creative, use an old toothbrush for your next art project! The bristles on a toothbrush aren’t too different from a paintbrush and can add some fun brushstrokes to a painting!

OPTION 2: REPURPOSE

With some imagination, an old bamboo toothbrush can transform into something of use! Instead of buying wooden popsicle sticks, see how you can use the handle of a bamboo toothbrush.

Need to remember where you planted squash in your garden box? Use the handle of a toothbrush and a pen to make a custom garden marker!

If you’re always dying your hair, use the handle of the toothbrush to stir hair dye! For the artists out there, this method will also work for paint mixing!

OPTION 3: DISPOSE PROPERLY 

Our bamboo toothbrushes are compostable since they’re made of a plant-based material. Simply toss the old toothbrush in a compost bin and the bamboo will decompose on its own! Be sure to remove the nylon bristles before composting!

One benefit of making the switch to bamboo toothbrushes from plastic toothbrushes is that you know your toothbrush won’t contribute to plastic pollution!

Our instinct is to throw used items directly into the trash. While almost all products from The Earthling Co. are recyclable or compostable, it’s best to give items a new life in the best way you can. In need of a replacement toothbrush? Stock up on bamboo toothbrushes for everyone in your household (even your kids!)

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