Disinfecting your tongue scraper is an important step in maintaining good oral hygiene. Here's how you can effectively disinfect your tongue scraper:
1. Rinse: After each use, rinse the tongue scraper under running water to remove any debris or residue.
2. Clean with soap: Apply a small amount of mild soap or liquid dish soap onto the tongue scraper. Use your fingers or a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the entire surface of the scraper, including the handle and the scraping edges.
3. Rinse again: Thoroughly rinse the tongue scraper under running water to remove any soap residue.
4. Disinfecting solution: Prepare a disinfecting solution by mixing equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide or mouthwash in a clean container. Place the tongue scraper in the solution, making sure it is fully submerged.
5. Soak: Allow the tongue scraper to soak in the disinfecting solution for at least 5-10 minutes. This will help kill any remaining bacteria or germs.
6. Rinse and dry: Remove the tongue scraper from the solution and rinse it thoroughly under running water to remove the disinfecting solution. Pat it dry with a clean towel or let it air dry completely before storing it in a clean, dry place.
It's important to note that tongue scrapers should be replaced every 3-6 months or as recommended by the manufacturer. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting your tongue scraper will help ensure its effectiveness and maintain good oral hygiene.