Review (5/5): Durable bamboo handle paired with a soft bristled brush, stop the plastic. Buy.
Pros:
One of the oldest known types of toothbrushes
Sustainable bamboo instead of plastic
Environmentally friendly toothbrush
Super soft modern nylon bristles
Biodegradable bamboo handle
Smaller ecological footprint
Bamboo grows very fast
Strong and durable
Ecological
Cute
Cons:
Synthetic bristles
Still will likely end up in a landfill
Premium price for handmade toothbrush
Bamboo bristle toothbrushes have historically been one of the oldest known toothbrushes, having originated out-of-China, over (500) years ago (Library of Congress). The bristles were made from boars’ hair and the handle from bamboo. Nylon bristles came about around 1938. Today, some toothbrushes still use boar’s bristles, however, some say there are concerns about the action of the natural bristles on the enamel and gums, so many still recommend soft nylon bristles. Here, we have a natural bamboo handle, which is sturdy and durable, with little to no bend and very smooth, so someone took time to sand this down. The bristles are very soft. Which is easy on the gums and enamel. The toothbrush head and handle are perfect for a little one’s mouth, allowing access to those small to reach places. Practicing good oral hygiene is so important, at a young age. Our little one found this toothbrush perfect in size to maneuver about and the bristles comfortable. We see no shedding of a single bristle at this early stage; and plan to rotate this out of commission, after its effectiveness appears of concern, after a bad cold, or just after so many months of service. With that in mind, cost is always a concern. These are no bargain basement toothbrushes. They are a premium product in our opinion and are priced accordingly. Bamboo toothbrush handles can be composted, used as kindling, and can be repurposed for other household uses. However, just like plastic toothbrush handles, they will take up space in a landfill if just thrown away. We reconsidered using plastic toothbrushes, and now choose bamboo toothbrushes as an alternative to the plastic, which ends up in landfills. Plastic is not designed to break down and plastic toothbrushes are difficult to recycle. We decided bamboo to be an excellent alternative to reduce plastic waste at home. Finally, our little one gave this bamboo toothbrush, with its cute design laser burned into the handle two (2) thumbs up for fit, having that fun handle design, unique style, soft bristle comfort, lack of odor, and ease of using. We agree.