Your tongue scraper is a tool designed to remove bacteria and debris from your mouth—so it's essential that the scraper itself remains clean and hygienic. Proper maintenance not only ensures you're not reintroducing bacteria each time you scrape, but also extends the lifespan of your scraper significantly.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about cleaning, maintaining, and storing your tongue scraper, with specific advice for each material type.
Daily Cleaning: The Basics
After every use, your tongue scraper needs at least a basic clean. This removes the debris you've just scraped from your tongue and prevents bacteria from multiplying on the scraper's surface between uses.
The Quick Daily Clean
- Rinse the scraper under warm running water immediately after use
- Use your thumb to wipe along the scraping edge to remove any stuck particles
- Rinse again to ensure all debris is removed
- Shake off excess water and place in a clean, dry location
This 10-second process should become automatic—just as rinsing your toothbrush after brushing. Never put away a tongue scraper without at least rinsing it first.
Hot Water Advantage
Using hot water (not boiling, just warm from the tap) is more effective than cold water at removing residue and killing surface bacteria. Make it a habit to turn on the hot tap before you begin scraping.
Weekly Deep Cleaning
Once a week, give your tongue scraper a more thorough clean to remove any buildup and ensure optimal hygiene. The best method depends on your scraper's material.
Stainless Steel Scrapers
Stainless steel is the easiest material to deep clean and sanitise:
- Soap and water: Wash with antibacterial dish soap and warm water, using your fingers or a soft brush to clean all surfaces
- Boiling water: Submerge in boiling water for 2-3 minutes for thorough sterilisation
- Dishwasher: Most stainless steel scrapers are dishwasher-safe—check manufacturer guidelines
- Hydrogen peroxide soak: Soak in a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution for 5-10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly
Copper Scrapers
Copper requires a bit more care due to its tendency to tarnish, though tarnishing doesn't affect performance:
- Gentle soap wash: Clean with mild soap and water—avoid harsh detergents
- Avoid boiling: While copper can withstand boiling, repeated exposure may accelerate tarnishing
- Lemon and salt polish: To remove tarnish and restore shine, rub with lemon juice and salt, then rinse well
- Vinegar soak: For stubborn tarnish, soak in a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water for 10 minutes
Embrace the Patina
Copper naturally develops a darker patina over time—this is normal and doesn't affect the scraper's antibacterial properties or effectiveness. Many users prefer the aged look. Only polish if you prefer the bright copper appearance.
Plastic Scrapers
Plastic scrapers require careful cleaning due to the material's porous nature:
- Antibacterial soap: Wash thoroughly with antibacterial soap and warm water
- No boiling: High temperatures can warp or damage plastic
- Mouthwash soak: Soak in antibacterial mouthwash for 5 minutes as an alternative to harsher chemicals
- Replace regularly: Despite cleaning, plastic should be replaced every 3-4 months due to bacteria accumulation in micro-scratches
Proper Storage
How you store your tongue scraper between uses affects its hygiene and longevity. Poor storage can introduce contamination or promote bacterial growth.
Do
- Store upright in a cup or holder, allowing air circulation
- Keep in a clean, dry area of your bathroom
- Store separately from toothbrushes to prevent cross-contamination
- Use a dedicated holder or hook if possible
- Ensure the scraper is dry before storing (a quick shake is usually sufficient)
Don't
- Store in a closed container while wet—this creates a breeding ground for bacteria
- Leave lying flat on the counter where it contacts surfaces
- Store in direct contact with other oral care items
- Keep in a drawer without proper air circulation
When to Replace Your Tongue Scraper
Even with excellent care, tongue scrapers don't last forever. Here's when to consider replacement:
Metal Scrapers (Stainless Steel and Copper)
With proper care, metal scrapers can last many years—even decades. Replace when you notice:
- Visible corrosion, pitting, or rust (rare with quality stainless steel)
- Rough or uneven scraping edge
- Bent or deformed shape that affects comfort or effectiveness
- Handles that have become loose or uncomfortable
Plastic Scrapers
Replace plastic scrapers every 3-4 months, or sooner if you notice:
- Visible scratches or rough texture
- Discolouration that doesn't wash away
- Warping or bending
- Edges that feel rough or sharp
Travel Tips
Maintaining hygiene while travelling requires a bit of extra attention:
- Use a protective case: Pack your scraper in a clean case to protect it from contact with other items
- Dry before packing: Ensure the scraper is completely dry before placing in a closed case
- Clean upon arrival: Give your scraper a thorough wash before first use at your destination
- Consider a travel-specific scraper: Some people keep a separate scraper for travel to simplify packing
Avoid Sharing
Tongue scrapers are personal hygiene items and should never be shared, even between family members. Each person's mouth contains unique bacterial populations, and sharing can spread harmful bacteria.
Quick Reference Cleaning Guide
Key Takeaways
- Rinse thoroughly with warm water after every use—this takes just 10 seconds
- Deep clean weekly using appropriate methods for your scraper's material
- Store in a clean, dry location with good air circulation
- Never store wet tongue scrapers in closed containers
- Metal scrapers can last years; plastic should be replaced every 3-4 months
- Never share your tongue scraper with others
Proper care of your tongue scraper is a small investment of time that pays dividends in hygiene and longevity. By following these simple maintenance practices, you'll ensure that each use of your scraper effectively cleans your tongue without reintroducing bacteria.