The Problem with Disposable, Plastic Toothbrushes

Photo of old toothbrushes on a beach by F Delventhal
Let’s talk about disposable, drug store toothbrushes. They're cheap, colourful and they clean your teeth. But they’re really badly designed.

Here’s why…

First off, they're covered in grooves and ridges, which, I can only assume are for grip. If you rely on those grooves to prevent your toothbrush from flying out of your hand and sailing across the bathroom, then I have some news for you: you’re brushing way too hard.

What those grooves actually do is fill up with old toothpaste, saliva and germs. Take a look at your toothbrush after you've brushed for a few weeks and you'll see what I mean. 

Also, why are they so curvy and 'ergonomic' looking? Again I assume this is for grip. Then why aren't golf club or tennis racket handles shaped like that? You would think they’re a perfect example of something that needs a grippy handle.

Have you ever put your toothbrush down only to watch it roll over? You stare in horror as the bristles fall onto the counter or sink, which, let's face it, is in a bathroom. Near a toilet. *Shudder*

I don't care if you're a super germaphobe who cleans your sink or counter every day, it would make a lot more sense for your toothbrush to stay upright if you put it down. I don’t think I'm asking a lot here.

So why are cheap toothbrushes designed that way? Because (and this is only my opinion) they're designed to look expensive.  

Follow the money

Disposable toothbrushes are made by massive brands who are themselves designed to please shareholders. And they make them by the millions. At that scale, the cost for each is probably pennies.

So how do you get people to pay $5–8 for something that cost you pennies to make? You make it appear to be worth $5–8. That why they're curvy, colourful plastic with rubber inserts and grooves everywhere. Instead of a simple, clean design, they over-design them so that you’re under the illusion that you’re getting value.

Well, you’re not.

Here's what really drives me nuts: these brands do everything they can to make a buck. And I get it, that's business. But they don't look past the bottom line when making decisions about the design, the materials and the packaging of these toothbrushes.

I believe that needs to change. I believe that as humans, we can’t afford to act that way much longer.

Look at companies these days like Tesla. They’ve succeeded because they understand that you can make products that are better for the environment AND beautifully designed. Their new Solar Roof Panels are another example.

Now more than ever before, consumers are starting to make choices showing they care about the environment. I see many new brands who are embracing green practices. Which is awesome.

For too long the hippie fringe has been making items that only appeal to the hippie fringe. And that’s not knocking them because they led the way. But I think that products like Nada toothbrush can look great, work well and also take a stand.

Thanks for reading,
– Simon


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Green Nada Sustainable Toothbrush with a Metal Handle and Replacement Toothbrush Heads
"So happy to have found Nada Tothbrush" – Krysti
Pink Nada Sustainable Toothbrush with a Metal Handle and Replacement Toothbrush Heads
Arctic Blue Nada Sustainable Toothbrush with a Metal Handle and Replacement Toothbrush Heads
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Nada eco-friendly toothbrush starter kit with one aluminium handle, 3 toothbrush heads and a return envelope
Christine with a Gold sustainable Nada Toothbrush

Nada Toothbrush

Regular price$19.99
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The toothbrush 2.0 – Nada is an aluminum handle you keep for life and premium brush heads we take back and have recycled into plastic pellets.

What’s included:

1 Forever Handle + 3 Brush Heads
• Rinses clean, no gross buildup
• Lays flat & won't roll over
• Soft, “floss-tip” bristles get 6X deeper
• Built-in tongue scraper for fresher breath

★★
I love how well they work and it feels awesome to be helping the environment!! Really, these work. Just imagine if everyone did this!! 👍🏻👏🏻”
– Christine

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    1 Aluminum Handle + 3 Brush Heads
    • Rinses clean—no toothpaste or bacteria buildup
    • Lays flat—won’t roll over
    • Soft tapered bristles, for a gentler, deeper clean
    • Elevated Brush heads won’t touch dirty surfaces

    Nada brush heads and bristles are 100% recyclable. Please return your used ones in the pre-addressed envelope included with your order. We send them to be recycled into plastic pellets. ♻️Learn More

    Our Guarantee – If you’re not completely satisfied with your order, return it within 30 days and we’ll refund your money 😁. 

    Lifetime Warranty – If you have a problem with your toothbrush, we'll make it right.

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