Are you unsure what to use to safely and effectively clean your Invisalign retainers? You don’t necessarily have to spend money on the branded cleaning products that Invisalign offers. Instead, you can use several household items to clean your retainers just as well. Most can be picked up very easily from your local supermarket, meaning you don’t have to break the bank to find effective cleaning solutions. 

Check out some of the household ingredients you can use to clean your retainers below instead of branded Invisalign providers products. 

1. Antibacterial Soap
Using a colorless, odorless antibacterial soap can clean Invisalign retainers just like toothpaste does. In fact, many people use it instead of toothpaste. Some sources say toothpaste is okay, while others advise against it. Generally, though, a non-abrasive toothpaste is safe to use. But as an alternative to toothpaste, try using antibacterial soap. It’s relatively cheap to pick up from a supermarket and easy to apply. You only need a few squirts, and then you can begin to clean your retainer with a toothbrush. Of course, you’ll want to rinse your aligners with warm water afterward to avoid tasting soap for the next few hours. 

2. Baking Soda 
Chefs, bakers, and those who enjoy cooking already know that baking soda works wonders when cleaning kitchen utensils. But did you know you can apply its cleaning properties to your Invisalign retainers, too? There are two ways you can use baking soda to clean your aligners. The first is by dissolving a spoonful of baking soda in lukewarm water and soaking your retainers in the solution for around 30 minutes. This should give the liquid enough time to eat away at the bacteria and plaque on your aligner trays. 

The second method is by making a baking soda paste. Here, you’ll need far less water. Add a few drops of lukewarm water to a spoonful of baking soda and create a paste-like substance. Rub this into your retainers using a toothbrush in gentle circular motions, taking care to avoid brushing too hard. Once you’ve covered every surface, rinse thoroughly with water.

3. Vinegar
Vinegar, specifically distilled white vinegar, is a cheap yet effective way of removing plaque and bacteria from your Invisalign retainers. Moreover, despite its high acidic content, it’s entirely safe to use. When using vinegar, always mix it with water to create a solution that’s one part vinegar and three parts water. Use lukewarm water and combine the two ingredients before applying the liquid to your retainers. You can then start to gently clean your aligners with a toothbrush, rubbing in the vinegar-water combo. Once you’ve brushed it, soak your retainers in the mixed solution of vinegar and water for around 15-20 minutes. This would be a great time to eat a meal or have a cup of coffee. After the allotted time, thoroughly rinse your retainers with water. 

4. Hydrogen Peroxide 
Another method of cleaning your Invisalign retainers is to use a chemical called hydrogen peroxide. It’s a colorless, syrupy liquid that easily separates into water and oxygen and is used as a cleaning agent or antiseptic for many purposes. Mix together hydrogen peroxide and water in a glass or bowl. Drop your retainers into the solution and let them sit for around 20-30 minutes. Once you remove your retainers, be sure to rinse them thoroughly, as hydrogen peroxide is highly dangerous when ingested. 

5. Mouthwash 
You can use mouthwash to clean your Invisalign trays, but there are so many things to avoid, and remember that most people prefer to clean their retainers using another method. That said, if you find a suitable mouthwash, using a little water and a toothbrush can be a good way to clean your aligners. You should avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol, as this can damage your retainers. Also, avoid colored mouthwashes, as the bright greens and blues can stain your aligners and leave a bad taste. Always rinse your Invisalign trays with warm water after using mouthwash.