Why Switch to a Bamboo Toothbrush?
An estimated 1 billion plastic toothbrushes are thrown away in the US every year, and none of them biodegrade. Bamboo toothbrushes swap the plastic handle for a fast-growing, plant-based material. It's one of the easiest plastic-free swaps in the bathroom, but quality varies: cheap brushes can feel rough, shed bristles, or develop mold at the base. Here's what separates a good one from a frustrating one.
What to Look For
- Soft bristles. The American Dental Association recommends soft bristles for most people, and replacing your brush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if the bristles fray. Bamboo brushes can feel firmer than plastic ones, so default to soft.
- Know what the bristles are made of. Most "plant-based" bristles are still nylon, partly made from castor bean oil. They aren't home compostable, so pull them out with pliers before composting the handle.
- A sealed or treated handle. Raw bamboo that stays wet can grow mold. Handles with a smooth, sealed finish resist moisture better and feel better in the mouth.
- A shaped grip. Flat bamboo sticks are harder to hold, especially for kids. A contoured handle makes brushing easier.
- Plastic-free packaging. Look for a paper or cardboard box, not a plastic blister pack.
Bamboo Toothbrush Brands to Consider
The Humble Co.
A Swedish brand with adult and kids' sizes, contoured handles, and a widely available range. The company supports dental care projects for children through its foundation.
Brush with Bamboo
A US brand that uses plant-based bristles and plastic-free packaging, with adult and kids' sizes. A good choice if you want to minimize petroleum-based content in the bristles.
Bite
Better known for its toothpaste tablets, Bite also sells a bamboo toothbrush, which makes it an easy add-on if you're already switching to Bite toothpaste bits.
WooBamboo
Sold in multipacks, WooBamboo is a budget-friendly way to switch a whole household at once. See how it compares with a standard plastic brush in our Colgate vs bamboo toothbrush comparison, or view the bamboo toothbrush set.
At a Glance
| Brand | Sizes | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| The Humble Co. | Adult, kids | Contoured grip, easy to find |
| Brush with Bamboo | Adult, kids | Plant-based bristles |
| Bite | Adult | Pairing with toothpaste tablets |
| WooBamboo | Adult, kids | Budget multipacks |
How to Make a Bamboo Toothbrush Last
- Store it upright in a ventilated holder, never in a cup with standing water at the bottom.
- Rinse and shake it dry after each use.
- Replace it every 3 to 4 months, the same as a plastic brush.
How to Dispose of a Bamboo Toothbrush
Pull the bristles out with pliers and put them in the trash, since nylon bristles won't break down. The bamboo handle can go in a home compost pile, where it breaks down over several months, or be reused as a plant marker in the garden. If your city collects yard or food waste, check its rules before adding handles.
For more bathroom swaps, see our zero-waste bathroom guide and the best shampoo bars for hard water.
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