Most of us know we should replace our toothbrush every few months. But the toilet brush? It tends to sit by the loo for years. So how often should you actually replace a toilet brush, and what are the signs it's time?
The short answer
For a traditional toilet brush, a good rule of thumb is to replace it every three to six months, and sooner if it's used a lot or you notice any of the signs below. A brush in a busy family bathroom will wear out much faster than one in a guest toilet.
Signs your toilet brush needs replacing
- Flattened or splayed bristles. Once the bristles bend out of shape, they stop reaching under the rim and into the curve of the bowl.
- Discolouration. Staining that won't rinse off is a clear sign the brush is past its best.
- A lingering smell. If the brush or holder smells even after cleaning, it's time for a new one.
- A grimy holder. If you can't face cleaning the pot underneath, that tells you something too.
- Loose or cracked parts. A wobbly head or cracked handle makes cleaning harder and messier.
How to make a traditional brush last longer
If you're sticking with a traditional brush, a few habits help:
- After cleaning, rinse the brush in a fresh flush and let it drip dry over the bowl before putting it away. You can wedge the handle under the seat so it hangs above the water.
- Every week or two, soak the brush in hot water with your usual toilet cleaner or a bleach solution, following the product's instructions.
- Empty and wash the holder regularly. Never leave water sitting in the bottom.
- Never mix bleach with other cleaning products, especially ones containing acid or ammonia, as this can release harmful fumes.
Or skip the question entirely
A disposable toilet brush removes the guesswork. Instead of one brush slowly wearing out over months, you use a fresh head every time you clean and drop it in the bin afterwards. There's no brush to soak and no holder to scrub.
With Flush Buddy, a pack of 48 refill heads lasts about a year if you clean once a week, and the 96 and 144 packs about two and three years. You can read more in our guide to disposable vs traditional toilet brushes.