DIY Bamboo Toothbrush Holder from Scrap Wood (Zero Waste, 5-Minute Build)

Plastic toothbrush holders trap moisture, breed bacteria, and crack after months—build a wooden one from scraps for eternal, mold-free drying. In five minutes, drill holes into reclaimed bamboo or oak, oil for waterproofing, and mount a holder that airs bristles upright, extending brush life threefold. Free (or pennies), it saves 10 plastic versions from landfills while adding rustic charm to any sink. Customizable for families or solos, it fits standard bamboo brushes perfectly. Re-oil yearly for decades of use—no rust, no waste. Pair with compostable brushes for a fully sustainable smile station. This quick DIY elevates bathroom hygiene, supports local wood scraps, and slashes plastic pollution effortlessly.

One holder. Zero plastic. 10+ years. One build = 1 holder = lifetime use = 0 landfill waste Why Wood Beats Plastic Holders Store-Bought Plastic:

• Cheap plastic (breaks)

• Harbor bacteria

• $3–$8 each

• Ends in landfill

DIY Wood:

• Reclaimed scrap wood

• Naturally antibacterial

• Free (or pennies)

• Lasts forever

Eco win: One holder = 10 plastic holders saved. Materials (Makes 1 Holder)

• Scrap wood block – 4" x 2" x 1" (oak, bamboo, or reclaimed pine)

• Sandpaper – 120-grit + 220-grit

• Wood oil – Food-safe mineral oil or beeswax balm

• Optional: Wood burner or stencil for label

Pro tip: Raid your garage — old cutting boards or pallet wood work perfectly. Tools (All Reusable)

• Drill with ⅜-inch spade bit (for holes)

• Ruler + pencil

• Clamps (optional)

• Paintbrush or cloth (for oil)

Step-by-Step: 5 Minutes to Bamboo Bliss

Step 1: Mark the Holes (1 min) Measure and mark 4 holes in a row: 1 inch apart, ½ inch from edge, ¾ inch deep.

Step 2: Drill the Holes (2 min) Clamp wood. Drill straight down with ⅜-inch bit to ¾-inch depth (use tape on bit as depth stop). Blow out sawdust.

Step 3: Sand Smooth (1 min) Sand all surfaces with 120-grit, then 220-grit until silky. Round edges slightly.

Step 4: Oil & Seal (1 min) Rub mineral oil or beeswax balm into wood with cloth. Let soak 5 min, wipe excess.

Step 5: Label & Mount (optional) Burn or stencil “BRUSH” on front. Mount with double-sided tape or screw to wall.

How to Use

1. Drop bamboo toothbrush handle-first into hole

2. Let air-dry upright

3. Wipe holder monthly

4. Smile at zero plastic

Pro tip: Fits standard bamboo brushes — bristles stay dry, no mold.

Storage & Care

• Wipe with damp cloth

• Re-oil every 6 months

• Never needs replacing

Bonus: Family-Size Holder Drill 6–8 holes in longer block. Same method. One holder for all.

Troubleshooting

Problem: Holes too tight → Fix: Sand inside with dowel + sandpaper

Problem: Wood warps → Fix: Use hardwood (oak/bamboo)

Problem: Oil smells → Fix: Use food-grade mineral oil Gift It: Eco Bathroom Upgrade

1. Pair holder with 4 bamboo brushes

2. Wrap in jute twine + eucalyptus sprig

3. Add tag: “Lifetime Hold. 0 Plastic.”

Your Zero-Waste Brush Routine Every morning:

1. Grab brush from holder

2. Brush (2 min)

3. Rinse + return

4. Admire zero plastic in sight

Final Word: Dry Brushes, Clear Conscience You replaced 10 plastic holders with one scrap of wood. Every dry = no mold, no waste, no guilt. Drill. Oil. Hold. Forever.