1. Washcloth or toweling? Either will work. I don’t usually like purchasing new materials just for a re-use project, but since a washcloth has a better manufacturing footprint than the typical plastic travel toothbrush holder, and since you might not want to break up your matching set of washcloths just for this project, it’s not a terrible idea here.
If you don’t have a stash washcloth, however, a better plan is to use a piece of toweling. I’m using some white terrycloth that I have left over from other projects, but since the fabric required is so small, you can also feel free to splurge on organic terrycloth, or a hemp or bamboo blend.
2. Measure your toothbrush, if necessary. I measured about a third longer than the toothbrush at both top and bottom, and three times as wide as the toothbrush at the width. In this photo I’m measuring my kiddo’s toothbrush–even though children’s toothbrushes are smaller, I’m still applying the same measurements. I can afford to make her another travel toothbrush holder when she grows up!
Remember, though, that I said that I’m using stash terrycloth for this project? If you’re upcycling a washcloth, just use the whole thing–otherwise, what’s the point?
2. Hem and turn, if necessary. If you’ve cut a piece of fabric to size, sew it right sides together almost all the way around the perimeter, leaving a space unsewn for turning. Clip the corners, turn the fabric to the right sides, and sew the opening closed.
Skip this step if you’re using a washcloth, you lucky duck!
3. Sew the ties. I recommend a shoestring for a tie, since it’s super-sturdy, but a length of ribbon or rick-rack will work in a pinch. Just make sure that it’s machine-washable–I can’t be the only one who MUST wash all my luggage after a trip, right? Center the tie and sew it across the middle of the toothbrush holder.
To use the travel toothbrush holder, center your toothbrush on it, roll it up, and tie it shut. You’ll find that you’ll be able to actually slip your toothbrush in and out of this holder on your trip, saving yourself the steps of untying and re-tying the ties and unrolling and re-rolling the holder. Your toothbrush will stay snug and sanitary, and when you get home?
You can toss your travel toothbrush holder in the washing machine.
