When it comes to maintaining oral hygiene, you might be surprised to learn that selecting the right toothbrush can make a significant difference.
There are two types of toothbrushes to consider the benefits and disadvantages of when weighing up your decision. Those are, of course, electric and manual toothbrushes.
They will both (if used properly) help keep your teeth in good health, but one of the key factors that often influences the choice is cost.
Here, we will explore the general price differences between electric and manual toothbrushes, the costs to replace and maintain them and the long-term considerations to keep in mind.
Electric vs Manual Toothbrush – Initial Purchase Cost
The initial purchase price is one of the biggest differences between electric and manual toothbrushes. Manual toothbrushes are generally considered to be more affordable.
That is because they are available in a wide range of prices, making them widely accessible and so they fit within most budgets.
Manual brushes are available in various designs, bristle types and even materials with fully plastic alternatives growing in popularity. This is providing more choices for consumers that they can make based on their preferences and budget.
At Sustuff, our minimalist bamboo manual toothbrushes start at £12.99 (correct as of March 2025) and are available in two different colours and styles, from eclipse black to jungle green.
We regularly have different sales throughout the year to bring down the upfront cost of purchasing our stylish and practical brushes.
Electric toothbrushes, on the other hand, tend to carry a more expensive upfront cost. The higher cost is attributed to the technology used, built-in features and the convenience they offer.
One of the key differences between manual and electric toothbrushes is that electric ones come with various modes, timers, and pressure sensors. This, of course, carries a higher price tag.
Electric or Manual Toothbrushes – What Are The Replacement Costs?
Both electric and manual toothbrushes require periodic replacement to make sure they are effective at maintaining your optimal oral hygiene.
You might be surprised to know that it is recommended that you change your toothbrush every three to four months.
Manual toothbrushes might need to be replaced sooner if the bristles become frayed. The cost of replacing a manual toothbrush is relatively low, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.
With Sustuff you can also save on the cost of replacing your manual toothbrush. That is because our bamboo brushes come with three replacement heads that you can swap in for old ones if the bristles become frayed.
You can also subscribe and save for replacement heads that will be needed in the future, with them available for as little as £0.75 per month if you go for this option.
Most electric toothbrushes require pricier replacement brush heads, which can make them more expensive than normal manual toothbrushes.
The frequency of replacement is similar, with brush heads needing to be changed every three to four months. However, the cost of replacement heads can add up over time.
Other Maintenance Cost Considerations
Cost of replacing batteries for electric toothbrushes
One of the ongoing costs associated with electric toothbrushes is the need to replace batteries. Some electric toothbrushes are powered by disposable batteries, which need to be replaced periodically.
The frequency of battery replacement depends on the usage and the type of batteries used. While disposable batteries are relatively inexpensive, the cost can accumulate over time, especially for those who brush their teeth multiple times a day – as is recommended.
Alternatively, many modern electric toothbrushes come with rechargeable batteries, which eliminate the need for frequent battery replacements.
However, rechargeable batteries have their own set of costs, including the initial cost of the toothbrush and the potential need to replace the battery after a few years of use.
Despite these costs, rechargeable electric toothbrushes are often seen as more convenient than disposable battery alternatives.
These costs are not something that you have to even think about if you do opt for a manual toothbrush.
Charging Costs of Electric Brushes
For electric toothbrushes with rechargeable batteries, charging costs are another factor to consider. The cost of charging an electric toothbrush is generally low, as they consume minimal electricity.
Usually, rechargeable electric toothbrushes will come with a charging dock or a USB charger. This makes it easy to keep them powered up, even when travelling.
However, the frequency of charging depends on the battery life, which can range from a few days to several weeks on a single charge depending on usage levels and battery strength.
While the cost of electricity for charging an electric toothbrush is negligible, it is still an ongoing expense that should be considered.
Manual vs Electric Toothbrushes - Long-Term Cost Considerations
When evaluating the long-term costs of electric versus manual toothbrushes, it is essential to consider both the initial purchase price and the ongoing expenses.
Manual toothbrushes are generally more affordable upfront and have lower replacement costs, making them a budget-friendly option.
Electric toothbrushes, while more expensive initially, offer advanced features that users find beneficial. The ongoing costs of replacing brush heads, batteries, and charging are factors to consider, but some people will feel the convenience and effectiveness of electric toothbrushes justify that larger investment.
Make the right choice for you
In conclusion, the cost of electric versus manual toothbrushes varies significantly, with each type having its own set of advantages and expenses.
Manual toothbrushes are more affordable upfront and have lower replacement costs, making them a cost-effective choice for those on a budget.
Electric toothbrushes, while more expensive initially, offer advanced features and superior cleaning performance, with ongoing costs for replacement heads, batteries, and charging.
Ultimately, the decision between an electric and a manual toothbrush comes down to personal preference, budget, and the value placed on the additional features and convenience.
By considering the initial purchase price, maintenance costs and replacement costs, you can make an informed decision that best suits your oral hygiene needs and financial situation.
Take the next step to better manual brushing
For more information on electric vs manual toothbrushes you can read our article on whether electric or manual brushes are better for you.
You can also check out our collection of toothbrushes that are a great alternative to fully-plastic brushes!