Flawed and Unsanitary Product

Philips/Sonicare 5300

Posted: 2009-08-03 by Sita Mae

Flawed and unsanitary product

Complaint Rating:

Company information:

Philips

United States

This is the most unsanitary electric toothbrush I've ever used. Red gelatinous moldy stuff grew in the compartments. Very difficult to clean. 



I've been using Sonicare since 1994. This was a new model intended to replace the one I'd been using for quite a while, until the rechargeable battery died. Never had a problem with mold and bacteria on that electric toothbrush. 

So, this new one was disappointing and disgusting.

The Optiva Corporation created this product. Philips Corporation purchased that company in 2000. Herein lies the problem.

I called Phlips to complain about the problems with the model. I was told that one needs to remove the brush head after every use and let it air dry. 

Then, wash the complete unit every week with mild soap. 



In my opinion, this is entirely too much maintenance for a toothbrush--especially since

the maintenance is intended to address a design flaw which makes mold and other ugly things grow in the product. Even with the maintenance, I would not trust that I could keep it clean.

A company representative told me that the design flaws have been addressed in newer models, but she refused to offer me a replacement or even a discount to purchase a new and improved model, or any remuneration to address my displeasure with this product. 


Philips Sonicare could have made things right and kept a loyal customer. They didn't bother.


So, I will not purchase a Philips Sonicare tooth brush again and I would advise others not to as well.

Comment On This

I purchased one 7 months ago. The battery gave out as it would no longer hold a charge. So, I followed directions to replace batteries. What a hoax. The unit got mangled opening it and I could NOT get the batteries out. What a piece of junk. And, yes, it is very difficult to keep clean. I had one in 1999 and that one lasted a couple of years before the battery died with 3 people using it. Philips is NOT KNOWN for quality in any products they produce.