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Manual toothbrushes are designed to be used without the use of electricity, which is what makes them so appealing. The lack of electric power also means that they are more affordable than their electric counterparts. But it doesn’t mean you can’t find a great manual toothbrush! It just takes some research and effort to find one that suits your needs best. This article will give you all the information you need on manual toothbrushes in order to make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Pros of a manual toothbrush:

  • Less expensive than electric toothbrushes
  • There are many styles and types of manual toothbrush to choose from, meaning that one will likely suit your needs.
  • Most are made with soft bristles that won’t damage the gums or teeth if used for an extended time period. However, keep in mind that overly vigorous brushing can lead to gum recession over time. But this is true of any type of brush!
  • They do not contain batteries or rechargeable parts which means there’s less chance they’ll break down after a few months use. Some models come equipped with replaceable heads so the handle itself lasts longer without needing replacement.
  • Manual toothbrushes can be traveling companions since you don’t need electricity to run them!

Manual Toothbrushes

For adults
Oral-B Pro-Health All-in-One Manual Toothbrush, Soft, 2 ct., Value Pack

Oral-B Pro-Health All-in-One Manual Toothbrush, Soft, 2 ct., Value Pack

The Oral-B Pro-Health All-in Clear Manual Toothbrush, 2 ct., Value Pack is great for people on the go. It can clean your teeth better than an electric toothbrush and it’s still compact so you can take it with you wherever life takes you. I use this brush twice a day to make sure my teeth stay strong. And anyone who knows me is stunned when they see how white they are because my dentist always says “you have perfect oral hygiene” thanks in no small part to this toothbrush which helps remove 99% of plaque from hard to reach areas – like between teeth or under fixed braces. The medium bristles are perfect for my teeth and gums, not too soft to damage them but also not so hard that they hurt either. And we love how it has indicator bristles which mean I can see when the brush needs replacement – no more guesswork!

The Oral-B Pro-Health All-in Clear Manual Toothbrush, Soft is ideal for people with sensitive mouths as well. It’s gentle on your mouth yet still efficient at removing plaque from all surfaces of each tooth thanks to its angled head design. Bristles have a tapered cut and tufted pattern for optimal cleaning performance and you’ll notice their color change once they’re worn out: white means replace soon while blue shows that the time is now right!

PROs
  • Angled head for easy cleaning
  • Tapered cut bristles that are soft on gums and teeth but still very effective at removing plaque
CONs
  • Bristles might be too hard for some people’s mouths – test this one before buying to make sure it won’t bother you!
Colgate Renewal Manual Toothbrushes for Gums Massage and Deep Clean with Full Head, Extra Soft - 2 Pack

Colgate Renewal Manual Toothbrushes for Gums Massage and Deep Clean with Full Head, Extra Soft - 2 Pack

The Colgate Renewal Manual Toothbrushes for Gums Massage and Deep Clean with Full Head features a firm grip that is comfortable, making it easy to handle. The unique bristles provide a high-foaming action as they wrap around each tooth to massage and revitalize gums. This brush should not replace flossing your teeth as it does not remove the plaque from between the teeth or below the gumline. These brushes come in blue or white colors and include 2 full heads of adult size toothbrushes.

This toothbrush has Soft bristles that are gentle on your gums and teeth. This brush head is a full-sized standard size to fit most adults without being too big for smaller mouths or children’s hands. The ergonomic shape of this manual toothbrush makes it easy for everyone to hold the handle comfortably while brushing their teeth, even if they have less grip strength in their fingers. These brushes do not come with extra heads so replacements need to be purchased separately when needed. There is no indicator on these brushes telling you when its time to replace them either so keep track yourself or change often at least every three months throughout the year as recommended by dentists. When replacing the head, ensure you press down and turn the brush head to lock it in place.

PROs
  • Soft bristles are gentle on gums and teeth.
  • Ergonomic shape makes it easy to hold without slipping or hurting your hands with sharp edges.
CONs
  • None.
Oral-B 3D White Luxe Pro-Flex Manual Soft Toothbrush, 4 Count

Oral-B 3D White Luxe Pro-Flex Manual Soft Toothbrush, 4 Count

Brush daily with Oral-B 3D White Luxe Pro-Flex Manual Soft Toothbrush, 4 Count to gently polish away surface stains and help whiten teeth. It has gentle pro-flex sides that adjust individually to the shape of each tooth for a complete clean every time, removing up to 90% of surface stains along the way. You can be confident in your healthy looking enamel thanks to our advanced stain eraser brush head. So enjoy brushing ever day because together we can put a dazzling smile back on your face.

Brush daily with Oral-B to gently polish away surface stains and help whiten teeth. It has gentle pro-flex sides that adjust individually to the shape of each tooth for a complete clean every time, removing up to 90% of surface stains along the way. You can be confident in your healthy looking enamel thanks to our advanced stain eraser brush head. So enjoy brushing ever day because together we can put a dazzling smile back on your face.

PROs
  • Gentle and efficient cleaning
  • Flexible bristles that adjust to the shape of your teeth
CONs
  • The product is a bit pricey.
Reach Advanced Design Toothbrush, Soft Bristles, 7 Count Value Pack

Reach Advanced Design Toothbrush, Soft Bristles, 7 Count Value Pack

The Reach Advanced Design Compact toothbrush is like no other with its ergonomic rubber grip that puts you in her control, bi-level soft bristles to clean and remove plaque along the gum line, and tongue cleaner with antibacterial properties. Reach Tip Technology uses bulky angles to effectively reach hard-to-reach places in the back of your mouth like teeth, crowns or even braces for better oral care. Now in a 7 count package, this high quality value pack provides convenience for large families or busy individuals.

This manual toothbrush is perfect for those with limited dexterity or weak hands, as its compact design and rubber grip makes it easy to hold onto even in the most trying times of constant hand tremors that cause you difficulty holding everyday objects like glasses or utensils. But don’t be fooled by this brush’s smaller size; at only one inch long, Reach Advanced Design Compact Toothbrush has bristles spaced only 0.15 inches apart so each bristle can effectively clean teeth surfaces all around your mouth to remove stubborn plaque build-up that causes gum disease and cavities.

PROs
  • Ergonomic rubber grip
  • Reach Tip Technology, easy to reach back of mouth like teeth and crowns. Friendly for braces.
CONs
  • Only one size available (0.15 inches apart)
Colgate Keep Soft Manual Toothbrush for Adults with 2 Deep Clean Floss-Tip Brush Heads, Navy

Colgate Keep Soft Manual Toothbrush for Adults with 2 Deep Clean Floss-Tip Brush Heads, Navy

A toothbrush that is comfortable, durable and helps you maintain a healthy smile. With 2 replaceable toothbrush heads and a soft bristled brush head, this product helps you keep up with brushing your teeth the right way. Aluminum handle reduces plastic waste so you can feel good about how sustainable it is. Handle grip provides control as you brush, tongue cleaner removes bad breath germs, and lower cost than an electric option makes this perfect for those who want to do what they can to maintain their teeth without investing in costly cleaning equipment. Packaged with recyclable materials and made from recyclable materials available in most local communities – Colgate has the power to give back.

Colgate is a trusted brand, with soft bristles that are gentle enough for most sensitive teeth and gums. This product will last you up to three months before needing replacement or rechargeable batteries need changing out after it dies on the go – great value which is easy on your wallet as well!

PROs
  • Handle grip provides control as you brush, tongue cleaner removes bad breath germs, and lower cost than an electric option makes this perfect for those who want to do what they can to maintain their teeth without investing in costly cleaning equipment.
  • Aluminum handle reduces plastic waste so you can feel good about how sustainable it is.
CONs
  • The rechargeable battery may not hold a charge long enough depending on the age of your toothbrush.
For kids
Hello Kids Soft Bpafree Toothbrush Easy To Grip Handle Vegan Cruelty Free Toothbrushes, Unicorn Sparkle, 6 Count

Hello Kids Soft Bpafree Toothbrush Easy To Grip Handle Vegan Cruelty Free Toothbrushes, Unicorn Sparkle, 6 Count

The perfect toothbrush for your little one. Hello Kids soft BPA-free thoughtfully designed wide handle vegan cruelty free toothbrush is perfect for all ages and strong enough to remove germs but gentle enough to not hurt lil’ pearlies so yer lil’ beauties can brush happy too!

Keep it clean with the new Hello Mermaid kids toothbrush that will make for a great Easter or birthday gift. Made from sustainable bamboo fibers, this anti-bacterial nontoxic material doesn’t affect the taste of your tongue unlike plastic which tastes weird now matter how many times you use soap and water.

This toothbrush has a soft textured head with rounded bristles made from food grade silicone which means they are gentle on baby’s gums while still strong enough to remove plaque and germs; unlike other hard plastic brushes that can be too harsh or may even crack under pressure (especially when you accidentally fall asleep in your child’s bed).

PROs
  • BPA free
  • Eco friendly material is anti bacterial and doesn’t affect the taste of your tongue unlike plastic toothbrushes.
CONs
  • None.
Jordan Step 3 Kids Toothbrush, 6-9 Years, Soft Bristles, BPA Free - 4 Pack - Blue & Pink

Jordan Step 3 Kids Toothbrush, 6-9 Years, Soft Bristles, BPA Free - 4 Pack - Blue & Pink

Ever since a child’s first tooth, they’ve been brushing with a step 1 toothbrush. Now that our little ones are growing up and starting to outgrow their infant brush, it is time for the Jordan Step 3 kids toothbrush! This dental care product was specifically made for children between the ages of 6-9 who have just mixed milk teeth and permanent teeth combined. The bristles on this kid’s toothbrush have medium stiff softness that doesn’t damage the enamel while getting every last bit from your kiddo’s mouth. It also comes with an extra special tip to carefully get in those hard-to-reach spots around a small mouth, lips, and cheeks. Not only does this beady brush begin removing plaque buildup but also strengthens enamel to prevent future cavities. Recommended by pediatricians and parents alike, this is a great product for any child that’s just moving from their first brush to a more grown up one!

PROs
  • The toothbrush is made for small mouths
  • The bristles are soft but effective at cleaning
CONs
  • None.
Oral-B Kids Toothbrush, Extra Soft

Oral-B Kids Toothbrush, Extra Soft

Oral-B Kids Toothbrushes are made specifically for your little one. That’s why we’re offering Durable Plastic Handle and Bristles, Extrasoft Bristles to protect teeth and gums while the elliptical shape of Oral-B’s head helps reach hard-to-clean areas. Furthermore, this toothbrush comes with an Attractive Design plus it bears Captian Oral-B on its handle so kids can be confident that their brushing is done right. You should always change your toothbrush every 3 months because bacteria build up over time resulting in less soft bristles; luckily, Oral B has Dentists recommend you change your children’s dentr brush after three moths of regular use. There’s never any need to stress about the right time or age for your child to start brushing with an Oral-B toothbrush.

PROs
  • Durable Plastic Handle and Bristles
  • Extrasoft Bristles to protect teeth and gums
  • Attractive Design plus it bears Captain Oral B on its handle
CONs
  • There are no negative reviews for this product.
Colgate Kids Toothbrush, Trolls, Extra Soft with Suction Cups

Colgate Kids Toothbrush, Trolls, Extra Soft with Suction Cups

Cleaning teeth shouldn’t be a chore, which is why this toothbrush was created to provide your child with plenty of entertainment before actually brushing. The soft, yet durable bristles are gentle on the mouth and gums while the built-in tongue cleaner pushes food particles back for an even better cleaning. And since something as simple as not enough brushing can lead to cavities or brown spots on teeth, it’s important that kids brush well each time! That’s where these fun Minions toothbrushes come in. They make brushing more enjoyable through their vibrant colors and two different sizes – one small size for little mouths, and one regular size to tackle bigger jobs! Plus they’re free from BPA which means you won’t have to worry about any chemicals leeching into your child’s mouth.

This toothbrush removes up to 80% of plaque in hard-to-reach areas, which means it does a much better job than the old school ones that many adults still use. It also has soft bristles with rounded tips so you won’t have to worry about hurting yourself or anyone else when they brush their teeth! Plus, these brushes are built to last since each head can be replaced for less waste and more money saved on future purchases.

PROs
  • Soft bristles and rounded tips make it safe for everyone
  • Comes with two different sized heads to accommodate the whole family
  • Built tough, so each head can be replaced up to 200 times
CONs
  • None!

How to choose the best manual toothbrush

Bristle Type
  • Soft bristles are ideal for sensitive gums and when cleaning areas with fillings. They can be used to clean around crowns, implants or orthodontics without damaging them in any way. While they aren’t specifically designed to remove stains from teeth, soft bristles will aid in removing surface buildup over time so your smile stays bright!
  • Medium bristle types offer a nice balance between gentle and effective cleansing of the oral cavity. The medium firmness is perfect for those who want their brush to do more than just protect gum health or provide an aesthetic boost – it also offers enough scrubbing power that plaque won’t stand a chance against it! It’s not hard on the gums during use but provides good cleansing to remove tartar and other types of buildup.
  • Hard bristles are the best option if you’re looking for a more thorough cleansing experience as they provide the maximum amount of cleaning power! And because we all know how important good oral hygiene is, so having brushes with hard bristles gives you peace of mind that your teeth will be clean and healthy every day. But it’s not just about what’s great – there can also be some problems associated with this type of brush such as gum damage or enamel erosion over time. Make sure to check out our full guide on brushing technique before using one yourself!
Brush head shape & size

The best manual toothbrush has either an angled head or a round one. Angled heads are perfect for brushing the front and back of each tooth, while round ones give you full access to all surfaces – both offer great cleaning results!

Bristle cut, shape & pattern

There are two types of bristle cut styles available – tapered or tufted. With the first one, each brush has bristles with a gradual taper to their width which makes them great for gentle cleaning and massaging gums too! If you want strong but soft bristles then tufted ones are perfect as they have an extra-firm core that gives them strength so they can remove plaque without being too harsh on your mouth at all.

Indicator bristles

The best manual toothbrush has bristles that are color-coded so you can easily see when they need replacing – the lighter ones have been most commonly used in this feature. As a general rule, it’s recommended to change your brush every three months or earlier if you notice any damage to the bristles themselves.

Handle design & construction

The best manual toothbrush has an ergonomic design which makes it easier to hold and use. This is especially important if you have a poor grip or any other issues that might make your hand shake – these products are great for improving the quality of cleaning as well as reducing injuries over time!

Handle material

There are three common types available on the market today, each with its own pros and cons so be sure to consider all of them before deciding which one will suit you best. Plastic handles can break easily but they’re also comfortable in your hands while stainless steel ones offer excellent durability without compromising too much comfort during brushing. And lastly there’s aluminum alloy brushes which combine both advantages so they’re perfect when looking at long term effects such as increased hand strength and reduced wrist strain.

Price of the Toothbrush

The best manual toothbrush has different prices to suit any budget or requirement out there. Low-cost brushes are great if you don’t want the top of the line model but still need something that can keep your teeth clean and strong!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should you change your toothbrush?

It depends on how often you brush, but most people should replace their toothbrush every three months.

How to clean a manual toothbrush?

Wash the bristles of your toothbrush with soap and water after each use or run it through boiling hot water for one minute to sterilize between uses. Always store in an upright position away from other toothbrushes.

Can I use a cheap toothbrush?

You can, but it’s important to remember that the cheapest toothbrushes are usually not very safe or effective. If you do use a cheap brush, change it every three months and don’t share with anyone since germs will linger on cheaper brushes for longer periods of time.

Do manual toothbrushes clean your teeth as well as electric toothbrushes?

If you brush your teeth with a manual toothbrush properly, it will clean them just as well. But if not, an electric toothbrush may be more effective since they move at much faster speeds than human hands can go.

Are manual toothbrushes bad for the environment?

Not at all. In fact, since you can reuse a manual toothbrush many times over and buy them in bulk for less waste, they’re actually better for the environment than electric ones!

Is a soft or medium toothbrush better?

It depends on how much pressure you like to apply when brushing. Soft bristles are better for people who brush too hard, while medium ones work well for those with average strength in their hands.

Conclusion

Manual toothbrushes are the most affordable option available, making them a viable choice for people on tight budgets. Though they don’t have all of the benefits of electric models, it is possible to use manual brushes efficiently and effectively if you know what you’re doing. Choosing one can be confusing so we put together this guide with everything you need to know about how to choose a manual toothbrush, as well as our favorite picks in each category based on factors like design and price. If you need help finding the best brush or just read this guide!