Your Toilet Brush Holder Could Be Causing That Persistent Bathroom Smell, Cleaning Guide Warns

Persistent musty odours in bathrooms may come from the toilet brush holder rather than poor ventilation, according to a household cleaning guide published by Pravda.Ru on 24 October 2026.

Moisture trapped at the bottom of the holder can create conditions that encourage bacterial growth, allowing unpleasant smells to linger even when air fresheners are used.

The recommended approach involves cleaning the holder thoroughly, ensuring it is completely dry and using a small amount of essential oil to provide a lasting fragrance.

Clean the Holder Before Adding Fragrance

Removing existing residue is the first step in addressing the odour. Adding fragrance to a dirty holder can combine with the existing smell rather than eliminate its source.

The cleaning process involves washing the inside of the holder and the toilet brush bristles with hot water. A small amount of baking soda or oxygen-based cleaning powder can be used to help remove soap scum and mineral deposits.

All components should then be rinsed thoroughly. The inside of the holder must be dried completely with paper towels before any fragrance is added.

Essential Oils Can Provide a Lasting Scent

Once the holder is dry, the guide recommends placing two drops of essential oil at its bottom.

Suggested options include tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint and lavender oils, which are described as having antimicrobial properties.

Two drops of dish soap or concentrated fabric softener can then be added to the oil. According to the guide, movement of the brush bristles during use can help release the fragrance gradually.

The method is presented as an alternative to repeatedly using aerosol air fresheners to mask unpleasant bathroom smells.

Allow the Toilet Brush to Drain Before Storing It

Returning a wet toilet brush directly to its holder can cause moisture to accumulate at the bottom, dilute the fragrance mixture and encourage further bacterial growth.

To reduce this problem, the guide recommends placing the brush beneath the raised toilet seat after cleaning, positioning the bristles over the toilet bowl so excess water can drain away.

The brush should remain in this position for approximately 10 minutes before being returned to its holder.

Regular Drying Helps Maintain Freshness

The recommended drying routine can help prevent moisture from building up inside the holder and reduce the conditions associated with persistent odours.

The guide states that the fragrance mixture may last for up to two weeks when the brush is allowed to drain properly. It also suggests that reducing prolonged exposure to moisture can help extend the lifespan of synthetic brush bristles.

Microbiologist and hygiene expert Jason Tetrow was cited as advising that areas requiring active hygiene maintenance should be treated with a disinfectant after use. The guide identifies regular cleaning, thorough drying and periodic renewal of the fragrance mixture as key steps in maintaining bathroom freshness.