A sustainable toothbrush made of bamboo is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic toothbrushes. However, some brands are taking it a step further by creating bamboo electric toothbrushes. While these toothbrushes are not entirely made from bamboo, they do incorporate bamboo in the toothbrush heads and parts of the handle.
Materials matter when it comes to toothbrushes, especially considering the staggering amount of plastic toothbrushes thrown away each year. With 1 billion toothbrushes discarded in the US alone annually, brands are focusing on the benefits of bamboo for planet-friendly plaque removal. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of bamboo electric toothbrushes and how they can help reduce plastic waste in the dental care industry.
The Best Bamboo Electric Toothbrush For Planet-Friendly Pearly Whites
When it comes to sustainable oral hygiene, two bamboo electric toothbrushes stand out. The bamboo electric brush heads of Sustainable Tomorrow’s toothbrush are compostable and biodegradable, while Better & Better’s sonic toothbrush boasts a top speed of 38,000 strokes per minute and replaceable bamboo brush heads. Both toothbrushes are BPA-free and planet-friendly options for a brighter smile.
Why Choose An Eco-Friendly Bamboo Electric Toothbrush
When it comes to choosing an eco-friendly toothbrush, bamboo toothbrushes are often the first choice. However, with the rise of electric toothbrushes, many people are wondering which option is more sustainable.
While manual bamboo toothbrushes are currently the best option for plastic-free plaque removal, an electric toothbrush made with a bamboo replacement head can be a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic electric toothbrushes. These bamboo electric toothbrushes often come with plant-based bristles, making them a more environmentally friendly option.
One of the main advantages of bamboo toothbrushes is that they are compostable and biodegradable. Every plastic toothbrush ever made still exists, and around 50 million pounds of them end up in US landfills each year. By choosing a bamboo toothbrush, individuals can help reduce plastic pollution and its impact on the environment.
In addition to being compostable, bamboo toothbrushes are often made from FSC certified bamboo, ensuring that the toothbrush handle is sustainably sourced. The plant-based bristles used in some bamboo electric toothbrushes also provide a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic bristles.
Another advantage of bamboo electric toothbrushes is their zero-waste packaging. Many brands offer plastic-free packaging, reducing the overall environmental impact of the toothbrush.
While electric toothbrushes may not be as sustainable as manual bamboo toothbrushes, choosing a bamboo replacement head can still make a positive impact on the environment. It is important to note, however, that not all bamboo toothbrushes are created equal, and it is important to do research and choose a reputable brand.
Overall, choosing an eco-friendly bamboo electric toothbrush can be a sustainable and vegan option for individuals looking to reduce their environmental impact.
How We Found The Best Bamboo Electric Toothbrush
When searching for the best sustainable bamboo electric toothbrush, the materials used, durability, charging time, recyclability, and packaging were all important factors to consider. Fast-growing bamboo is one of the most sustainable crops, and bamboo with sustainable forestry certifications ensures that it has come from sustainably managed forests and plantations. However, most bamboo electric toothbrushes consist of a plastic main body to protect the electronic parts. Therefore, it is important to look for toothbrushes with recyclable main bodies, and we hope to see more use of recycled plastic in the future.
When it comes to the brush heads, castor oil bristles are the current most popular choice among sustainable bamboo electric toothbrush brands. While they are biodegradable, they take around six months to break down, which means they cannot be called compostable. Thus, it is crucial to find toothbrushes with replaceable bamboo brush heads to reduce waste.
In addition to materials, durability is a key factor in determining the most sustainable bamboo electric toothbrush. Brands that offer a warranty are an indication that their toothbrushes are well-made and long-lasting. Most of the brushes we found last around 40 days on a single charge, making them a convenient option for daily use.
Recyclability is another important consideration, and toothbrushes with easily recyclable main bodies are preferred. We would also like to see more brands offering recycling programs for their products. Additionally, minimal, compostable packaging is ideal for reducing waste.
Final Thoughts On Sustainable Bamboo Electric Toothbrushes
While a bamboo electric toothbrush presents a more eco-friendly option compared to a standard electric toothbrush, a manual zero-waste bamboo toothbrush is still the most sustainable option. However, if an electric toothbrush is preferred, choosing a sustainable bamboo electric toothbrush with replaceable bamboo brush heads and a recyclable main body can make a significant impact.
It is important to note that the climate impact of an electric toothbrush is 11 times bigger than its manual counterpart due to its extra parts and battery. Therefore, if one can manage without the buzz, switching to a manual bamboo toothbrush, along with zero-waste toothpaste and floss, is an easy way to green their oral hygiene routine.
For those who already have an electric toothbrush, it is recommended to keep using it for as long as possible through care and repair. If buying new, it is suggested to check second-hand marketplaces for pre-loved and refurbished options. Models that are compatible with bamboo electric toothbrush heads, like several in the Philip Sonicare range, are ideal. Supporting bamboo electric toothbrush brands can also help further the move towards more sustainable dental care products.
In conclusion, finding the best sustainable bamboo electric toothbrush involves considering the materials used, durability, charging time, recyclability, and packaging. Choosing a toothbrush with replaceable bamboo brush heads and a recyclable main body can make a significant impact on reducing waste. While a manual bamboo toothbrush is the most sustainable option, a sustainable bamboo electric toothbrush is a viable alternative for those who prefer an electric toothbrush.
