Why do toddlers chew their toothbrush? And when should you replace it?

You hand your toddler a toothbrush.

They put it in their mouth.

Excellent. We're off to a promising start.

Then, instead of brushing, they clamp down on it like a miniature crocodile and refuse to let go.

Sound familiar?

If your toddler is chewing their toothbrush rather than actually brushing their teeth, you're definitely not alone.

The good news? It's pretty normal.

The slightly annoying news? All that chewing can turn a perfectly good toothbrush into something resembling a tiny, colourful toilet brush.

So, why do toddlers do it, and how do you know when those poor bristles have had enough?

Why do toddlers chew their toothbrush?

There are a few reasons your little one might be more interested in biting their toothbrush than brushing with it.

1. Teething

Those little gums can still be uncomfortable when toddler molars start coming through. Chewing provides pressure that may feel soothing, and a toothbrush happens to be conveniently located in their mouth.

2. Exploring

Toddlers investigate everything with their mouths. Toys, sleeves, remote controls and occasionally things we'd rather not identify.

Toothbrush bristles have an interesting texture, so naturally they deserve a thorough investigation too.

3. Independence

Toddlers are discovering they have opinions.

You say brush.

They say chew.

You say open wide.

They say absolutely not.

Sometimes it's less about the toothbrush and more about being in charge.

4. They're still learning

Brushing is a skill. Moving the brush around, reaching different teeth and understanding the difference between brushing and chewing takes practice.

Biting down is considerably easier.

Is chewing a toothbrush bad?

An occasional gentle nibble isn't necessarily a problem, but toothbrushes aren't designed to be chew toys.

Repeated chewing can bend, flatten and spread the bristles, making them less effective at cleaning teeth.

And if your toddler bites the bamboo handle, check for cracks, splinters or other damage.

The important thing is that the toothbrush stays intact and safe to use.

Always supervise young children while brushing, particularly those who enjoy testing the structural integrity of everyday objects.

How to stop your toddler chewing their toothbrush

You probably won't stop the chewing overnight, but a few simple tricks can help.

Try the "your turn, my turn" approach

Let your toddler practice brushing independently, then take over to finish cleaning their teeth.

Try saying, "Your turn to brush, then my turn to check."

They get some independence, and you get a chance to actually clean those teeth.

Children generally need adult help with brushing until around seven or eight years old.

Brush together

Grab your own toothbrush and demonstrate how to brush.

Make exaggerated, gentle brushing movements so your toddler can copy you.

If they start chewing, calmly show them again.

No lecture required.

Offer something that's actually made for chewing

If teething seems to be the issue, try an age-appropriate teether before brushing.

That way, there's something for chewing and something for cleaning teeth.

Two different jobs. Two different products.

And if chewing gets a big reaction from you, try making that reaction a little less exciting. Toddlers do love an audience.

When should you replace a chewed toddler toothbrush?

Here's where things get simple.

Look at the bristles, not just the calendar.

If your toddler's toothbrush looks like it's survived an encounter with a lawnmower, it probably needs replacing.

Here's your quick check:

• Bristles straight and tidy? Keep brushing.

• Bristles bent, flattened or spreading sideways? Time for a new toothbrush.

• Loose bristles, cracks or damage to the handle? Stop using it immediately.

A toothbrush with damaged bristles won't clean as effectively, even if you only bought it last week.

And yes, some toddlers can destroy a toothbrush remarkably quickly.

It's a talent nobody asked them to develop.

Are bamboo toothbrushes suitable for toddlers who chew?

Absolutely, provided the toothbrush is appropriate for their age, used under supervision and checked regularly for damage.

Our Boo kids' bamboo toothbrushes have a small head, soft bristles and a lightweight bamboo handle that's comfortable for little hands.

A quick note about our materials: the bristles are nylon, because nothing plant-based cleans as well yet, and we'd rather be straight with you than greenwash it.

The handles are compostable after the nylon bristles are removed, and our packaging is plastic-free.

But here's the important bit.

Bamboo toothbrushes aren't teethers.

If your toddler regularly bites the handle, redirect them to something designed for chewing and inspect their toothbrush for damage.

The Boo bottom line

If your toddler is currently treating their toothbrush like an afternoon snack, don't panic.

Keep practising, brush together and give them plenty of opportunities to learn.

If the chewing is persistent or concerning, your dentist can offer advice.

And remember, if the bristles are damaged, it's time for a fresh brush.

No need to wait three months while your toddler slowly transforms it into a miniature bottlebrush.

Small swaps. Big smiles.

Shop our kids' bamboo toothbrushes