Do you ever sterilize toothbrushes?

[PAfirsttimemom]

I am over a week into an evil virus/bronchitis, whatever. My kids just got over being sick, too. I'm sure our toothbrushes are teeming with germs, and I wonder if we should somehow sterilize them. My DH always says it's no big deal, because you can't reinfect yourself with the same virus your body has already fought off. But still, isn't it gross to use germy toothbrushes all the time? Do you just throw yours away after you're sick? Or clean it in some way? Not worry about it? If you do sterilize it, how do you do it? Thanks.

[cckwmh]

if it is something more than a cold, we throw them away. The idea of the germy toothbrushes really bothers me. Dh thinks I am crazy for replacing it for anything except step.

[ett]

I usually replace it after an illness.

[hillview]

Wow I never do anything and just keep using it. That said I can't recall a repeat illness.
/hillary

[ohsara430]

We occasionally throw them in the dishwasher on the sanitize cycle. Although we have thrown them out too if it's been about 6 months since we got a new one out.

[Melaine]

I pour hydrogen peroxide on them once in awhile or after illness.

[lizzywednesday]

I toss them & buy new after nasty bugs.

Perhaps I am overcautious, but it makes me feel better to do it that way.