First Use Preparation:
Step 1: Remove the toothbrush from its plastic-free packaging. Rinse the bristles under warm water for 10-15 seconds to remove any dust from manufacturing and shipping.
Step 2: Examine the bamboo handle—you'll notice it's smooth and comfortable to hold. The natural grain pattern makes each brush unique.
Step 3: If desired, mark your brush to distinguish it from others in your household. You can use a small dot of nail polish on the handle or tie a colored thread around it.
Daily Brushing Routine:
Step 1: Wet the charcoal bristles with water. The bristles will soften slightly when wet, becoming gentle on gums.
Step 2: Apply a pea-sized amount of your favorite toothpaste to the bristles. Natural or fluoride toothpaste both work perfectly with this brush.
Step 3: Brush your teeth using gentle circular motions for 2 minutes. The charcoal bristles effectively clean while being gentle on enamel and gums. Don't brush too hard—let the bristles do the work.
Step 4: Pay attention to all surfaces—outer, inner, and chewing surfaces of teeth. Don't forget to gently brush your tongue to remove bacteria and freshen breath.
Step 5: Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. Rinse the toothbrush under running water, ensuring all toothpaste is removed from the bristles.
Step 6: Shake off excess water and store the brush upright in a dry, well-ventilated area. Never store in a closed container or cup with water—bamboo needs air circulation to stay dry.
Care & Maintenance:
Daily Care: After each use, rinse thoroughly and shake off excess water. Store bristles-up in a toothbrush holder with good air circulation.
Weekly Deep Clean: Once a week, soak the bristles (not the entire handle) in a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide for 5 minutes to disinfect. Rinse well afterward.
Drying: If the handle gets wet, wipe it dry with a towel. Don't leave it sitting in water or in a damp environment.
Travel: When traveling, let the brush dry completely before packing. Use a breathable travel case (not plastic) to allow air circulation.
Replacement: Replace every 3 months or when bristles become frayed. Mark your calendar or set a phone reminder for easy tracking.
End-of-Life Disposal:
Step 1: When it's time to replace your brush (after 3 months), use pliers to grip the bristles firmly at the base.
Step 2: Pull the bristles straight out. There may be a small metal staple holding them—remove this too.
Step 3: Compost the bamboo handle in your home compost or green waste bin. It will decompose naturally within 6 months.
Step 4: Dispose of the bristles in regular trash or check if your local recycling accepts castor bean products.
Pro Tips:
- Store in a dry area—bathroom humidity is fine, but avoid enclosed spaces
- Don't share toothbrushes, even within families, to prevent bacteria transfer
- The bamboo may darken slightly over time—this is natural and doesn't affect performance
- For kids, choose soft bristles and supervise brushing until age 7-8
- Use with any toothpaste—natural, fluoride, charcoal, or whitening all work well
- The charcoal bristles may appear gray or black—this is normal
- Replace sooner if bristles fray or splay outward before 3 months
- Keep one brush for home, one for travel (you get 2 in the pack!)
- Pair with PNKT's natural oral care products for a complete eco-friendly routine
- Teach children about sustainability by explaining why bamboo is better than plastic