How often should you change an electric toothbrush head? | Expert Reviews (2025)

Though electric toothbrushes are the best solution for effective brushing, you still need to keep them clean and well-maintained to ensure good oral health. From poor cleaning to excessive noise and a build-up of plaque, not changing your toothbrush head frequently enough can create a range of unpleasant problems.

If your electric toothbrushs bristles are suspiciously splayed and looking a bit past their best, then its time to get a new brush head.

But even if your brush head is looking fine, it could still be time to swap it out. Older ones can be a hotbed for bacteria and its important to keep on top of your brush heads lifespan to keep things clean.

How long can you use a toothbrush head for?

Ideally, manual toothbrushes or brush heads must be changed at least every three months. While this might seem wasteful and bad for the environment, its also harmful to keep using them for longer. Electric brushes are slightly better for the planet (as youre only getting rid of the head) and many of these are now recyclable like the Suri Sustainable Sonic Toothbrush (which our reviewer described it as very good at scrubbing plaque off) which is designed to last a lifetime with returnable recyclable heads.

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How do I know if my toothbrush head needs replacing?

Outside of the general three-month rule, there are other signs to look for when considering whether to replace your toothbrush head. Bristles should look stiff and straight, but if they appear frayed or depressed then this is your cue to replace the head as soon as possible. Needless to say, you shouldnt be putting a brush with unpleasant odours or discolouration anywhere near your mouth. If youve been ill, then you should also replace your brush head as it will be full of bacteria (see below).

Why should I change my toothbrush head?

Toothbrushes clean bacteria from your mouth, so they can easily become a hotbed of germs if youre not careful. A germ-ridden toothbrush cant clean your teeth effectively, and you also run the risk of reinfection if youre using the same toothbrush as you did when you were sick.

Bathrooms have been shown to be quite germy places and if possible, keep your toothbrush covered away from the toilet (vented toothbrush covers are best as they help the bristles dry out) or stored vertically in the bathroom cabinet.

How should I clean my toothbrush head?

To discourage bacteria or hard water damage, disconnect your brush head from the main body after each use and rinse thoroughly inside the brush and around the bristles. Using very hot water will help to get rid of any toothpaste residue and dirt plus soaking the brush head in antimicrobial mouthwash every week or so (if you feel it needs extra attention) provides an added deep clean.

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Can I extend the life of my toothbrush head?

No, this isnt possible. But in future, be sure to pay attention to how hard youre brushing as electric toothbrushes require far less pressure than manual ones. Some electric toothbrushes, like the Oral-B iO Series 6, which our reviewer described as fantastic in this full review, come with pressure sensors which cut off the power if you press too hard while brushing.

If youre unsure on the best way to brush your teeth, read our guide on How to use an electric toothbrush to keep your mouth healthy and brush head in tip-top condition. Speaking of which, need to order some more? See our top picks listed below.

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