Mandy PhillipsThere’s just too little time to get ready in the morning. If you’re a known multitasker, you’ve probably wondered how you can find shortcuts to make your morning routine more efficient.
If only you could do more, like brushing your teeth while taking a shower, which begs the question – can you use your electric toothbrush in the shower?
It saves you a couple of minutes and helps you save water too, which all sounds fantastic. But sometimes, these timesaving a.m. methods might work against you.
While it seems smart to brush your teeth in the shower, it’s not very good for your hygiene. Not to mention, your electric toothbrush might be water-resistant instead of waterproof, meaning you should not use it in the shower where it can get soaked in water!
Are Electric Toothbrushes Waterproof?
If you plan to brush your teeth in the shower, first, you have to know if it’s okay for your electric toothbrush to get wet. So, the question is, is your electric toothbrush waterproof? It has to be if you’re going to use it in the shower since it will get soaked in water.
There are electric toothbrushes that are waterproof. But, as a general rule of thumb, if the label doesn’t explicitly say that an electric toothbrush is waterproof, then expect that it’s not.
Waterproof or non-waterproof electric toothbrushes may look the same, but the main difference is the charger port. In a waterproof electric toothbrush, water can’t get inside. Meaning it’s safe to use while you’re in the shower.
Meanwhile, non-waterproof electric toothbrushes are more susceptible to water getting inside the brush. While they are protected against typical splashes of water when brushing your teeth in the sink, using them in the shower risks a short circuit, which can ruin your electric toothbrush.
Water Resistant vs. Waterproof Electric Toothbrush
Generally, electric toothbrushes are water-resistant. It means you don’t have to worry about exposing them to water from time to time. Splashes of water are okay, and you can even rinse your electric toothbrush in water. But potentially, water can get inside the electric toothbrush when exposed to water for long periods and may damage it.
In addition, the battery of your electric toothbrush can also get destroyed by water. Generally, anything with electrical components, like your electric toothbrush, should be kept away from water.
Then there are waterproof electric toothbrushes, designed to include extra protection against water. These types are impervious to water and are fully submersible, which means if you have a waterproof electric toothbrush, it can resist water penetration.
Can You Use an Electric Toothbrush in the Shower?
The short answer is yes, but to be cautious, only use a waterproof electric toothbrush in the shower.
If you have a water-resistant electric toothbrush, it’s best to keep it away from the shower as water can get inside of it. Not only can it damage the electric toothbrush, but once water gets trapped inside, it can become a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. Worst-case scenario, charging an electric toothbrush with water inside is a potential shock hazard.
What Should You Do If Your Electric Toothbrush Gets Soaked in Water?
If you do get your electric toothbrush wet in the shower, avoid trying to turn it on or charging it. Instead:
- Dry off any water on your electric toothbrush with a clean towel.
- Leave the electric toothbrushes head off until it’s fully dry.
- Leave the toothbrush to dry for around 24 hours, allowing the electronics inside to dry out completely to prevent damage to the internal circuitry.
Should You Buy ‘Waterproof’ Electric Toothbrush?
A waterproof electric toothbrush is a convenient choice if you want to use a toothbrush anywhere you go. It has plenty of advantages over your typical electric toothbrush.
- It all comes down to convenience. You can use a waterproof electric toothbrush anywhere without worrying that water can get inside and damage your brush. This means you can brush your teeth in the shower or in the bathtub.
- It’s more hygienic than a non-waterproof electric toothbrush. Since there’s no way for water to penetrate the inside of the toothbrush, it’s safer from germs and bacteria.
But to be extra careful, always read the label and check the specifications before you buy one. Remember that not all electric toothbrushes are waterproof, so when buying one, the label should explicitly say that it’s waterproof.
Is It Okay to Brush Your Teeth While in the Shower?
Yes, and no. It depends on your shower environment. Generally, it poses no harm if, one day, you’re rushing through your morning routine and decide to multitask by brushing as you get in the shower.
But remember that the shower’s a moist and often dark environment which lends itself to mold and bacteria growth. Brushing in the same environment where you wash and clean your body isn’t the most sanitary. Not to mention that you probably don’t remember the last time you deep cleaned the shower.
It’s also more convenient to brush your teeth thoroughly while looking at the mirror. So, unless your shower has a mirror, you might forget to brush your teeth at a 45-degree angle.
How About Leaving a Toothbrush in the Shower?
It’s the same with brushing in the shower; leaving your toothbrush in a hot, humid environment creates the risk of germs and bacteria. Keeping your toothbrush in the shower around the clock gives bacteria and viruses plenty of time to grow.
Does Brushing Your Teeth While in the Shower Save Water?
It depends on your brushing habits. If your routine includes turning off the tap while brushing, you can save water whether you’re brushing your teeth in your bathroom sink or in the shower.
But if brushing your teeth causes you to stay in the shower longer, you may actually be using more water there.
Final Thoughts
Unless you have an electric toothbrush that says ‘waterproof,’ it’s best not to use your electric toothbrush in the shower.
Also, it’s always wise to read the product label. Brands will usually explicitly say whether you can or can’t use the electric toothbrush in the shower.
But also remember that the ‘water-resistant’ and ‘waterproof’ ratings of an electric toothbrush only cover the brush head and the body. It doesn’t include the charging base or any charging accessories, so you should never bring those items into the shower.
