Toilet brushes are a crucial part of maintaining a clean and hygienic bathroom, but many people don’t realize just how important it is to properly clean and care for them. These brushes are constantly in contact with one of the dirtiest parts of the home—the toilet bowl—making them hotspots for bacteria, germs, and potentially harmful microorganisms.

It’s not enough to just use them and put them back in their holders; they need regular and thorough cleaning to prevent the spread of germs. Some individuals may consider tossing their toilet brush into the dishwasher, thinking it might be a convenient and effective way to sanitize it. However, this is not only potentially dangerous but also largely ineffective and not recommended. Dishwashers are made to clean items like plates, glasses, silverware, and other kitchen tools—not toilet brushes that come into contact with human waste and other contaminants. The heat and water pressure in a typical dishwasher cycle are not sufficient to kill the tough bacteria that linger on toilet brushes.

More importantly, dishwashers are not designed to accommodate the shape or texture of toilet brushes, meaning many areas of the brush won’t even be reached during cleaning. One of the biggest concerns with using a dishwasher to clean a toilet brush is the risk of cross-contamination. Putting a toilet brush in the same space where you clean items that touch your food, like forks and plates, opens the door for bacteria to transfer and spread. That means your dinnerware could potentially be exposed to germs from the toilet, which poses serious health risks. Plus, standard dishwasher detergents are not formulated to deal with the kinds of bacteria found on toilet brushes, so even if the brush looks clean after a cycle, it might still be covered in harmful microorganisms.

In addition to being ineffective, washing a toilet brush in the dishwasher can actually damage both the brush and the appliance. The harsh water jets can cause bristles to fray or fall out, making the brush less effective for future use. Metal parts, if any, might rust or scratch the inside of the dishwasher, potentially leading to expensive repairs. Instead of using a dishwasher, there are safer and more effective ways to clean toilet brushes using items commonly found at home. Bleach is one of the most powerful disinfectants available and can easily sanitize a toilet brush. All you need to do is fill a bucket with hot water and add about a cup of bleach, then submerge the brush in the solution for an hour. Afterward, rinse it well with hot water and let it air dry.

Another strong disinfectant is hydrogen peroxide, which you can pour directly onto the bristles and let sit for about 10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with hot water. For a more natural approach, vinegar and baking soda can be a great combination. Sprinkle some baking soda over the bristles and pour white vinegar on top to create a fizzy, antibacterial reaction. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then rinse and allow the brush to dry. Regardless of which cleaning method you choose, it’s important to care for your toilet brush regularly. After each use, rinse it thoroughly with hot water to remove any debris, and store it in a container that allows airflow so it can dry completely. This helps prevent the growth of mold and bacteria in between uses. It’s also essential to disinfect the brush frequently—at least once a week if used regularly. Even with diligent cleaning, toilet brushes don’t last forever. If you notice that the bristles are worn out, the brush smells bad, or there’s visible mold, it’s time to replace it. As a general guideline, replacing your toilet brush every six months to a year is a good habit to keep things sanitary. In conclusion, while throwing your toilet brush in the dishwasher might seem like a quick fix, it’s not worth the health risks or potential appliance damage. Stick to proven cleaning methods using bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or vinegar and baking soda to keep your bathroom safe and hygienic. Consistent maintenance and timely replacement will ensure your toilet brush stays effective and your bathroom remains a clean and healthy space.