As Earth Day approaches, it is important to evaluate what you are doing to reduce your footprint on Mother Earth. Some people only buy recycled paper; some buy re-useable aluminum water bottles; others simply donate money to environmental groups hoping their money will help make a difference in the world.
Whatever your contribution is to the environment, there is one small change you can add to help: recycle your toothbrush!
While we no longer have to use sticks with frayed ends or boar hair bristles, modern toothbrushes contribute greatly to our landfills every year, nearly 50 million pounds. If you follow your dentist’s recommendations (which you should!), you are replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months. What can you do with your old toothbrushes? Recycle, of course!
Here are 3 ideas to get you started on a more sustainable dental routine.
1) Use it to clean: Toothbrushes are the perfect tool to clean jewelry, small crevices and tile grout.
2) Use it on your pet’s teeth: Pet teeth need care too! Make sure to disinfect the brush before using it on Fido.
3) Make a bracelet: Remove the bristles and boil the toothbrush in hot water. Once the plastic is pliable, wrap the brush around a mason jar and let harden.