Is There Fecal Matter On Your Toothbrush? Probably.

Your toothbrush (and bathroom) is a cesspool of germs.

A recent study by the American Society of Microbiology researched the presence of fecal matter on toothbrushes.

The big concern not being the presence of our own fecal matter, but those of others. Why would our own fecal matter not be an issue, you ask? Because that bacterium is already present in our bodies. Other people’s fecal matter, however, would introduce new bacterium.

The study found that 60 percent of toothbrushes collected had fecal matter on them.

It should be noted that they only studied toothbrushes from communal bathrooms. It also didn’t matter what they used to clean their toothbrush. The ones with the fecal matter were cleaned with cold water, hot water, and mouthwash designed to kill germs. All of them tested positive.

What’s the solution?

While a toothbrush cover might sound like a good idea, it’s one of the worst things you could do.

The cover will keep the head of your brush moist, which will encourage bacterial growth. You want the bristles to have the opportunity to dry out between brushings.

There are some precautions you can take:

First, train your children (and possibly your husband or wife) to close the lid to the toilet seat before flushing.

Second, regularly clean any areas that you’d place your toothbrush.

This, of course, is no guarantee, but it will help.

Also, don’t forget to regularly change your toothbrush. It’s recommended to do it every three months.