How to Remove a Ceramic Toothbrush Holder

Many older homes have ceramic toothbrush holders mounted in the bathroom, usually near the sink. These toothbrush holders have a flat plate at the rear that is secured to the wall with tile adhesive. This allows the toothbrush holder to blend into the surrounding tiles. Removing a ceramic toothbrush holder can be tricky because, if you use too much force, you can damage the wall behind it. The secret to this process is to remove as much grout as possible from the edges of the holder.

Bathroom cleaner
Nylon brush
Towel
Grout saw or a rotary drilling tool with a mortar or grout cutting blade
Putty knife or chisel
Hammer

Instructions

- 1
  Remove anything stored inside or on the toothbrush holder, such as toothbrushes or cups.
- 2
  Close the sink drain, if present, beneath the toothbrush holder. This will prevent debris from clogging up the drain.
- 3
  Spray bathroom cleaner on the grout around the tiles and scour off any mildew or mold with a nylon brush. Wipe the area clean with a towel.
- 4
  Use a grout saw to remove the grout around the edges of the ceramic toothbrush holder. If you have a rotary drilling tool equipped with a mortar or grout cutting blade, this can also be used.
- 5
  Insert the edge of a putty knife or chisel in between the edge of the toothbrush holder and the neighboring tiles. Gently press down on the chisel or putty knife until the ceramic toothbrush holder begins to loosen from the backer board or drywall.
- 6
  Work your way around the edges of the toothbrush holder, prying it away from the wall, as you go, until it comes loose.

Removing a Frigidaire Wall Oven

How to Fix a Broken Mirror Frame

General Home Repair