Is It Time to Replace Your Toothbrush After COVID? What to Keep or Discard

As COVID-19 continues to circulate, especially with the rise of contagious variants, many people are left wondering about the safety of their personal items, including toothbrushes, makeup, and more. While the initial panic of disinfecting every surface has eased, questions about what to safely keep or toss remain relevant.

Dr. Julia Thompson, a Chicago-based internal medicine specialist, explains that while it’s a good idea to disinfect frequently used items after any infectious illness, the risk of re-infection through surfaces is low. “COVID-19 doesn’t linger long on surfaces,” she notes. According to the CDC, the virus can survive for up to three days on non-porous surfaces like glass and plastic, making a thorough cleaning beneficial but not essential.

Should You Discard Your Toothbrush?

Dr. Thompson recommends replacing your toothbrush after recovering from COVID-19, especially if you share a toothbrush holder with someone else. Generally, it’s advisable to change your toothbrush every three months, but post-COVID, starting fresh can help ensure you’re not introducing any lingering germs back into your routine.

What About Beauty Products?

When it comes to toiletries and makeup, Dr. Thompson reassures that most items are safe. Products dispensed without direct contact, like shampoos or pump foundations, are generally fine. However, it’s wise to wipe down the surfaces with alcohol. Even items that require dipping fingers, such as moisturizers or lipsticks, don’t necessarily need to be discarded. Just be mindful of their shelf life, as they can harbor bacteria over time. Waiting about ten days after an infection before using these products can further minimize risk.

Contacts and COVID

If you wear contact lenses, Dr. Thompson suggests you might want to stick with glasses until you’re fully recovered. There’s currently no evidence that COVID-19 can be transmitted through your eyes. For contact lens wearers, using daily disposables can reduce infection risk, and washing your hands before and after handling your lenses is crucial. If you switch to glasses, remember that cleaning them regularly is important, since the virus can linger on hard surfaces.

For more insights on personal item safety after an illness, check out this related blog post on intracervicalinsemination.com.

Helpful Resources

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In summary, while it’s good practice to be mindful of your personal items after recovering from COVID-19, most cosmetics and toiletries can be safely reused. However, replacing your toothbrush and maintaining good hygiene with contact lenses are essential steps to take.