Toothbrushes should be replaced every 2-3 months. However, you don’t need to throw them away, they are actually the perfect cleaning tool. They combine the best features of scrub brushes, sponges, and tiny tools used to clean in detail. Sometimes, specific areas in the bathroom or kitchen are best cleaned with a toothbrush. Here are the best places to use a toothbrush for:
Stove tops
Stovetops regularly become covered in grease, grime and baked-on food. To thoroughly clean all nooks and crannies you will need to use something small enough to reach inside and get rid of all the dirt. Next time it is time to deep clean your stove, grab a toothbrush and pour some dishwashing liquid on it (the degreasing agents that dishwashing liquid contains will help dissolve the grime and grease). Scrub in circular motions and buff with a clean cloth once you are done. Make sure to thoroughly wash the toothbrush when done with the cleaning.
Grout
Grout is often left behind when it comes to bathroom/kitchen cleaning. However, there is a lot of grime that collects there, as well as mildew, mould, and bacteria. An old toothbrush will help you properly remove all dirt that is built up there. Use a solution of bleach and water to get rid of mould and bacteria.
Faucets
Cleaning the chrome faucet is often not sufficient. There is a lot of bacteria and mineral buildup around the base of your faucet. You can use an old toothbrush and a bleach and water solution to get rid of it. Make sure you scrub all the areas covered with mould as well.
Cleaning stains from carpets and upholstery
Whenever you spill something on your carpet or upholstery and want to quickly clean it, grab a toothbrush and some liquid laundry detergent and get to work. Pour a little bit of the detergent on your toothbrush and gently scrub the stain. Use a clean cloth dipped in plain water to rinse the area and remove all soapy residue. Repeat the steps until the stain is completely gone.
Cleaning crayon stains
If the kids have been using the walls as a canvas again, a quick technique for removing crayon stains is to load a toothbrush with shaving foam or toothpaste. Apply it to the crayon marks and scrub gently then buff it away. Simply clean the surface with a paper towel after that. Repeat if needed.
Air vents at home and in the car
Lint and dust accumulate in anything that moves air, including hair dryers, car vents, and even bathroom vents. Have you ever examined your bathroom vent? They are usually covered in dust. Remove the cover after ensuring that the vent is turned off or disconnected. Take it outside to brush off gently, or if it’s caked on, clean it in your sink with a damp toothbrush. Make sure the hair dryer is unplugged from the outlet and gently remove dust with a dry toothbrush. The same goes for your car vents.
Refrigerator
If you are about to deep clean your refrigerator, you want to tackle all hard-to-reach areas as well. Use a toothbrush to get rid of grime and mildew from all nooks, crannies, and other tiny spots that still need attention. Once you remove all shelves and drawers, dip an old toothbrush in the cleaning solution and scrub all channels and edges that the regular cleaning sponge would miss.
Sinks and drains
The sink in your kitchen is probably one of the best areas for bacteria, mould, and mildew growth. That is, especially if you have an under-mounted sink. The edge between the sink and the countertop will collect a lot of grime, dirt, bacteria and even grow mould. Use a toothbrush dipped in bleach or vinegar (never mix those two together) and scrub all the gross buildup from there. You can also use the toothbrush to scrub your drain and remove all gunk that did not manage to pass through.
Cleaning a grater
Brush the teeth of a cheese grater with an old toothbrush before washing or putting it in the dishwasher. This makes washing easier and prevents clogs in your dishwasher drain by removing bits of cheese or any other item you may have grated. This method will also work if you forgot to wash your cheese grater and it dried with some food bits on it. Scrub them with a dry toothbrush, then wash it by hand or place it in the dishwasher.
Dye your hair
If you love dyeing your hair at home, a toothbrush will be your best friend. It is a perfect size and will help you reduce the mess to a minimum. It is best to have a separate brush to specifically use for your hair dye.
Wash your vegetables
Whether you grow your own or buy them at the supermarket, vegetables and fruits need to be thoroughly cleaned before cooking. That is, especially with lettuce, broccoli, mushrooms, and other vegetables that have a lot of hard-to-reach areas that collect mud, and tiny insects. Grab a toothbrush and scrub away all the dirt before you begin cooking your favourite meal.