No Tox Life Dish Brush

A new sustainable swap that helps you replace plastic dish brushes in the kitchen! This removable-head dish brush has a Moso Bamboo handle and brush head, with stiff agave fiber (vegan) plant bristles. It is held together with silver metal wire, and includes a small wire loop at the end for hanging dry. Replaces: plastic handled dish brushes. Can be used to wash general dishes as well as to loosen stuck on food. 

Why it matters: Plastic bristle brushes shed tiny pieces of plastic called micro plastics. Unfortunately these tiny plastic pieces are not filtered out fully by sewage treatment. So when you hear about the "Great Pacific Garbage Patch" the majority of this garbage patch in the Pacific Ocean is actually tiny pieces of plastic that aren't even visible to the human eye. These tiny plastic pieces are being eaten by marine animals and ending up in the food chain, being consumed by humans in sushi restaurants around the globe! 

Sustainability: The handle and replacement head are made of Moso bamboo, known as the giant bamboo or timber bamboo, a fast-growing grass that has been used for centuries to fashion buildings, flooring and culinary tools. The young shoots are often prepared into asian dishes.

Longevity: Each brush head can be used for 1-6 months. Do not leave any of the wood parts soaking in water, the wood will absorb water and it will cause the wood to swell and crack, or the metal pieces to come out. Hang to dry or place in a dry spot after using it. If you find your brush head is not staying dry, dip it in vinegar occasionally to help kill bacteria. The white teakwood is naturally antibacterial but the vinegar will help too. The handle should last for a couple years with normal usage. Don't apply undue pressure on the handle or it will break.

Replacing the brush head: The first time, it is a little stiff to bend the wires and you may need to use a pair of pliers to loosen it. (use caution). The subsequent times, you can use strong fingers to squeeze the wires together, loosen the metal grip, and pop off the brush head. Just slide a new brush head on and replace the metal grip that holds it tight. 

End of life: Once worn out, the wood and agave parts can be composted or buried in the garden, the silver metal parts can be recycled.