Toothbrushes are typically made of plastic, rubber, and nylon. The handles of most toothbrushes are made of plastic and rubber to make them easy to grip and dry. The bristles are usually made of nylon, which is a synthetic fiber that is strong and flexible and does not degrade or break down in water or with the types of ingredients usually found in toothpaste. However, some toothbrushes have alternative bristles made of materials such as boar or pig hair, which are more common in Europe than in the United States.

Here are some positive and negative aspects of toothbrush materials:

Plastic

• Positive: Resistant to bacterial growth, which means that harmful bacteria is less likely to grow on your toothbrush between uses. Easier to sanitize, so any bacteria your toothbrush does collect can be easily removed.
• Negative: Creates a large amount of plastic waste that doesn’t break down over time, which usually ends up in landfills or in our oceans.

Nylon

• Positive: Strong and flexible, does not degrade or break down in water or with the types of ingredients usually found in toothpaste, which makes for a toothbrush with a longer usable life.
• Negative: Nylon-6, which is the type of nylon used in most toothbrushes, is not compostable.

There are also eco-friendly alternatives to plastic toothbrushes, such as those made from bamboo or other natural materials. These toothbrushes are more environmentally friendly and sustainable, and some have handles made of recycled materials. However, finding eco-friendly bristles can be more difficult, as a 100% plant-based, effective bristle does not yet exist.