A default toothbrush option is still a single-use plastic brush available in every store. They are cheap, unattractive, and harmful to the environment, as they’re non-recyclable and accumulate in landfills for thousands of years.
So, what can we use instead? Two alternatives that come to mind are compostable bamboo and electric toothbrushes. We’ll compare them below and introduce an even better option.

Image credit etsy.com
Vegan Bamboo Manual Toothbrushes
Sustainably made, natural, compostable bamboo toothbrushes are a much better option than single-use plastic brushes. Naturally antibacterial, bamboo is an ideal material for self-care products. Keep the brush in a dry place between uses and replace it regularly.
Bamboo toothbrushes for kids:
Beware of nylon
Even if toothbrushes claim to be 100% plant-based or eco-friendly, the bristles may still contain nylon 1010 or nylon-4 (eco-nylon). These types of nylon, derived from castor oil, have a lower environmental footprint than traditional nylon but remain polymers that aren’t compostable or biodegradable under normal conditions. So, while they are better than conventional nylon, they’re still not perfect.
A few things to keep in mind to make the most of your choice:
Check the brush’s source and consider the environmental footprint of delivery. Even the most sustainable brush can have a high impact if shipped from afar, like China.
Dispose of it in organic waste for composting. Ideally, cut off the bristles if they’re nylon and recycle them separately.
Opt for brushes with plant-based rather than animal-derived bristles, as it’s hard to call a brush eco-friendly if animal parts were taken unwillingly
Bamboo vs. Electric Toothbrushes
From an ecological perspective, bamboo brushes are the friendlier option. So, if you’re comfortable with a manual brush, choose bamboo. However, if you’re like me and believe electric toothbrushes clean better due to their faster-moving heads, then an electric toothbrush might be your choice. And there’s great news for those who feel the same!
2-in-1: [more] Sustainable Electric Brushes
Eco-friendly tooth care has taken a step forward with a new generation of electric toothbrushes designed for sustainability. Made from more sustainable materials like bamboo or other plant-based options, these toothbrushes feature longer-lasting batteries and offer biodegradable or recyclable brush heads.
It’s not a perfect solution yet, but it’s a significant improvement over traditional plastic toothbrushes. So, if you're considering an electric toothbrush, take a look at these options:
Don’t Throw Away Your Plastic Electric Toothbrush
Already have a favourite electric toothbrush like a Philips Sonicare or Oral-B? You might wonder about its environmental impact and if it’s worth keeping. Good news!
First, environmentally speaking, an electric toothbrush is better than single-use plastic ones, as it generates much less waste over time. Plus, users often use less toothpaste due to the smaller head, further reducing waste. While electric toothbrushes do use energy, their impact varies depending on your electricity’s source.
Second, you can make your toothbrush more eco-friendly by switching to sustainable, compatible brush heads, reducing plastic waste.
It may look funny, I get it. But it’s a big step forward in the eco-friendly direction.
What Else Can We Do to Reduce Environmental Harm from Our Dental Routine?
Switch from traditional toothpaste in plastic tubes to eco-friendly toothpaste alternatives.
Use sustainable, zero-waste dental floss, or try compostable floss picks if you prefer them.
Check if local recycling facilities accept used toothbrushes or brush heads.
Never dispose of a broken electric toothbrush in general waste due to its battery. It should be taken to a specialized battery recycling facility.
Share these sustainable alternatives with friends!