Toothbrush Sanitizer by Philippe Starck

January A report by the U.S. Surgeon General in September 2000 directly linked oral hygiene to general health. The findings concluded that a single toothbrush can harbour millions of microorganisms that translate into bacteria - bacteria which thrive in the warm, moist environment of the average bathroom. The VIOlight Toothbrush Sanitizer & Storage System was created to address these problems. Most people simply rinse their toothbrush after each use and put it in a cup or holder, believing that they have removed these bacterial threats. This is not the case. As the Centers for Disease Control stated in their January 2002 report, "Even after being rinsed visibly clean, toothbrushes can remain contaminated with potentially pathogenic organisms." In addition, brushes kept in a common holder may cross-contaminate one another, spreading colds and flu among family members. The VIOlight Toothbrush Sanitizer & Storage System is a consumer product that utilises a Germicidal UltraViolet (UV) bulb - the same technology used in hospitals and dental offices - to eliminate germs and bacteria.

The VIOlight's UV bulb has been laboratory tested and has been proven to eliminate up to 99.9% of germs it comes into contact with on a toothbrush, safeguarding consumers from harmful bacteria and cross contamination.

The developers of this revolutionary product commissioned famed Philippe Starck to design the VIOlight Toothbrush Sanitizer & Storage System, creating a holder that is sleek, versatile, unobtrusive and a welcome addition to anyone's bathroom.

It holds up to four toothbrushes, including electric toothbrush heads, and features a removable drip cup for easy cleaning. Adults and children alike simply place their toothbrushes in the VIOlight, push a button, and the sanitizing process begins.

After 10 minutes, the VIOlight shuts off automatically, keeping toothbrushes bacteria free until the next use. The VIOlight won't change the user's normal brushing routine.

The VIOlight sells for US$ 49.95 and is available in matte-silver with a translucent cap. It is currently available online through www.violight.com.