How to Keep Your Philips Sonicare Clean of Black Gunk

Co-authored by Bailey Cho Medically reviewed by Cristian Macau, DDS

Last Updated: April 18, 2024 Fact Checked

If you are a fan of electric toothbrushes, you may use a Philips Sonicare to deep clean your teeth and mouth. If it is not stored properly, however, black gunk can build up on the unit, which may be mold or bacteria. Disinfecting your Philips Sonicare and allowing it to air-dry can remove any unwanted gunk and prevent it from returning.^{[1]
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Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Removing the Gunk

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1
Separate the toothbrush parts. Take apart your Philips Sonicare toothbrush by removing the brush head from the handle.^{[2]
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Research source} This will make it easier to identify gunk so you can remove it thoroughly.
- Unplug the charger before disassembling the toothbrush—even if the wire is not connected, it’s best to be safe.
- Align the brush head with the front of the handle, and then pull up to remove it.
- Place each part on a clean towel to prevent bacteria from spreading onto other surfaces.
2
Identify the parts with gunk. Mold and bacteria tend to develop in areas that are not exposed to open air, especially if you store your toothbrush in a closed container.^{[3]
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American Dental Association
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Go to source} Figuring out which parts have gunk can help you remove it and prevent it from returning.
- Inspect the brush head and handle individually and thoroughly. Bacteria thrives in a moist environment, like the area where the bristles are secured to the base of the brush head.^{[4]
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3
Soak the brush head. Submerge your brush head in hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, antibacterial mouthwash or a baking soda solution.^{[5]
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Research source} This will not only remove and kill mold, but also any lingering bacteria that could infect your oral cavity.
- Wipe loose debris from the base of the brush head before soaking it to remove caked on gunk more effectively.
- Place the brush head in a cup with 3.0% hydrogen peroxide for 20 minutes.^{[6]
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- Disinfect the brush head by soaking it in 1 cup of antibacterial mouthwash or white vinegar for 15 minutes.^{[7]
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- Mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda in 1 cup of water, then swish the brush head in the solution for 30 seconds.^{[8]
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4
Rinse and dry brush head. Once you’ve soaked your brush head in your chosen solution for the allotted time, rinse and dry it thoroughly. Keep track of the time to avoid fraying the bristles. This ensures you remove all of the solution and residue, preventing black gunk from forming.^{[9]
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- Rinse your brush head for at least 20 seconds under warm, running water.^{[10]
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- Dry your brush head with a clean cloth and then store it in open air to prevent further gunk from developing.^{[11]
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5
Clean the handle. After you’ve removed the gunk and properly stored your brush head, move onto cleaning the handle. In most cases, you can get rid of black gunk with a mild hand soap and a soft cloth.^{[12]
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- Do not submerge the handle in water or a disinfectant solution. Do not push on the rubber seal on the metal shaft with a sharp object, as this may cause damage.^{[13]
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- Dip the cloth (or a cotton swab) in soapy water and clean the area where the head attaches. You can also use disinfectant wipes that have been pre soaked in alcohol.
- Allow the unit to dry thoroughly before reattaching it to the brush head.
- If black gunk is coming out of the handle, you may want to call Phillips Customer Service and request a new handle, as it is difficult to deconstruct the handle to effectively clean it. You can reach them at 1-800-682-7664.^{[14]
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Do not clean the brush head, handle, or charger in the dishwasher.^{[15]
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Research source} This can damage the unit and make your toothbrush inoperable.

Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Keeping it Clean

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1
Choose the optimal toothpaste. Select a toothpaste that effectively kills oral bacteria. This may help keep your brush from developing gunk and other bacteria that could harm your health.^{[16]
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- Studies show that toothpastes with triclosan may reduce the spread of bacteria.^{[17]
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2
Rinse the head thoroughly. After each use of your Sonicare, rinse the brush head thoroughly to remove any remaining paste and debris.^{[18]
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American Dental Association
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Go to source} Consider detaching it from the handle to minimize the risk of gunk developing.
- Hold the brush head under the water for at least 20 seconds.
- Allow the head to air-dry completely.
- Wipe off the handle if necessary.
3
Disassemble the head and handle. When you’re not using your toothbrush, store the head and handle separately. This allows each part to dry completely, which can prevent unwanted bacteria growth.^{[19]
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- Wipe any surfaces that appear moist, especially around the head and handle seal.
4
Store the Sonicare toothbrush properly. Store your Sonicare in an upright position and allow it to air-dry.^{[20]
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Research source} If you aren’t going to use it for a while, keep it in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and any place where it could fall off and break.^{[21]
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- You can store the unit on the charger if you like, though you shouldn’t need to charge it more than once a week.

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Question

My charger has a build up of gunk where the toothbrush fits into the powerbase. How do I clean it?

Cristian Macau, DDS
Doctor of Dental Surgery
Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015.

Cristian Macau, DDS

Doctor of Dental Surgery

Expert Answer

Try using a dry gauze or a wipe and put a small amount of alcohol over it. Let it evaporate for 2 minutes and then clean very well the area making sure it is unplugged.

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I just found all the black gunk you are referring to. I did not know that I was supposed to open and clean it. Can this black gunk make me sick?

Cristian Macau, DDS
Doctor of Dental Surgery
Dr. Macau is a Doctor of Dental Surgery based in London, England. Dr. Macau is an oral surgeon, periodontist, and aesthetician at Favero Dental Clinic where he is known for his cosmetic dentistry and facial aesthetics work. He is actively involved in scientific research in the field of dentistry and he received his DDS from Carol Davila University of Medicine in 2015.

Cristian Macau, DDS

Doctor of Dental Surgery

Expert Answer

It is best to clean it off to avoid any potential contamination being a place where aerobic bacteria develops and can easily enter your mouth while brushing. A clean toothbrush will also make you more happy to brush and enjoy the brushing.

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Tips

Replace your brush head every 3-4 months, or when the bristles become frayed or matted.^{[22]
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You can also rinse your toothbrush in hot water to remove large chunks of food or toothpaste.^{[23]
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Cleveland Clinic
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Go to source} Once it looks clean, move onto the disinfecting solution.

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