How to Clean Invisalign Retainers: The Complete Care Guide

Key takeaways

Cleaning Invisalign retainers and aligners is easy but requires a little care.

So let's dig a little deeper and discover how you can get the most out of your clear aligners and Invisalign retainers.

Invisalign works hard, but taking care of retainers and aligners is easy

One of the things patients love most about Invisalign is that it's almost invisible. But that only holds true if you keep your retainer or aligners clean.

Fortunately, keeping them clean doesn't require an elaborate routine or a cabinet full of specialty products. A few quick and easy steps each day will help keep your retainer or aligners clear and fresh.

Do not use toothpaste on Invisalign retainers or aligners

OK, so let's get this out of the way, right off the bat. The number one mistake Invisalign patients make when cleaning their retainers or aligners is using toothpaste. Don't do it!

It seems logical to clean your aligners with toothpaste. After all, it's what you use to clean your teeth. But toothpaste is made to polish super-tough enamel, not clear plastic. Most toothpastes contain gentle abrasives, ideal for removing plaque from teeth, but those abrasive ingredients can leave tiny scratches on your Invisalign appliances.

Scratches add up, and gradually cause trays to appear cloudy. Not only that, scratches are an ideal hiding place for plaque causing bacteria, possibly putting your oral health at risk.

Why you should never use toothpaste on Invisalign retainers or aligners

• Most toothpastes contain polishing agents that are excellent for cleaning enamel but are too abrasive for clear plastic.
• Scratches caused by toothpaste add up and begin to make retainers and clear aligners look cloudy.
• Scratches can trap plaque-causing bacteria.
• Trapped bacteria can lead to an unpleasant smell and possibly bad breath.
• Nooks and crannies caused by scratches can make Invisalign harder to clean.

So, how should you clean your Invisalign retainer or trays?

The best way to clean Invisalign retainers and aligners

Before we get to the cleaning process, there is one step that can make all the difference when it comes to keeping your retainer or aligners clean and clear, and that's giving them a quick rinse in lukewarm water each time you take them out. That simple action will help wash away saliva and keep buildup from drying onto the plastic. That's going to help make cleaning your Invisalign appliance even easier and keep your teeth healthy.

Easy routine for cleaning Invisalign retainers and aligners:

Whether you wear your Invisalign retainer full-time, like aligners, or only at night for maintenance, keeping it clean should be part of your daily routine, with the only difference being how often you'll need to clean it. If your retainer is in your mouth most of the day, you'll want to clean it each morning and evening, along with a quick rinse whenever you take it out. If you wear it only at night, a thorough cleaning before or after each use is usually all it takes.

• Rinse your retainer or clear aligners with lukewarm water. Never use hot water. Heat can cause Invisalign to warp and lose their shape.
• After a quick rinse, gently brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a tiny drop of clear, fragrance-free liquid soap. Liquid soap cleans gently without scratching the clear plastic.
• Rinse your retainer or clear aligners thoroughly to remove soap before placing them back onto your freshly brushed and flossed teeth, or into the case provided for safekeeping.

That's it. A few minutes each day can help keep your Invisalign appliances clear and comfortable to wear while preventing scratches, bacteria and plaque from building up.

Bonus step for an extra healthy looking smile with Invisalign

Make sure your teeth are clean before putting your aligners or retainer back in. After all, you don't want to go to the effort of cleaning your Invisalign appliance only to trap food particles, bacteria, and plaque that are sitting on your unbrushed teeth!

But my Invisalign appliance is already cloudy, what should I do?

If you notice your retainer or aligners looking a little dull or developing an odor, don't worry. That happens sometimes. A simple deeper clean can often restore their clarity and keep them feeling and smelling fresh.

How to deep clean Invisalign retainers and aligners

Daily routine cleaning does most of the heavy lifting, but every now and then your aligners or retainers deserve a little extra attention. If they're starting to look cloudy, have developed an odor, or simply don't feel as fresh as they used to, a deeper clean can help.

Here's how to deep clean your Invisalign retainer or clear aligners:

Invisalign Cleaning Crystals

Invisalign Cleaning Crystals are made specifically to clean Invisalign retainers and clear aligners. Just dissolve the crystals as directed, soak your trays for the recommended amount of time, then rinse them thoroughly before putting them back in. That's it. They're an easy way to help remove plaque buildup and keep your aligners looking clear.

Retainer or denture cleaning tablets

Retainer cleaning tablets and many non-bleach denture tablets are another popular option. Drop a tablet into water, let your aligners soak according to the package directions, then rinse them well before wearing them again. They're especially helpful for freshening trays and lifting everyday buildup.

White vinegar soak

If you prefer a simple at-home solution, a diluted white vinegar soak can help remove mineral deposits and freshen your aligners.

Mix one part white vinegar with three parts lukewarm water, soak your aligners for 15 to 20 minutes, then gently brush them with a soft toothbrush before giving them a thorough rinse.

Ultrasonic cleaner

If you'll be wearing retainers long term, it may be worth investing in an ultrasonic cleaner. These devices use gentle vibrations to loosen plaque and debris from hard-to-reach areas without scrubbing. Many patients pair them with retainer cleaning tablets for an even deeper clean, though they're not essential for keeping your aligners in great shape.

What never to use when cleaning your Invisalign retainer or aligners

When it comes to caring for your Invisalign appliances, gentle is always the way to go. We know it can be tempting to reach for whatever cleaner is nearby, but some everyday products are dangerous, and others can damage the clear plastic or affect how your aligners fit.

It's best to avoid:

• Hot water. Heat can warp the plastic, preventing your retainer or aligners from fitting the way they were designed to.
• Toothpaste. As previously mentioned, most toothpastes contain abrasives that can leave tiny scratches, gradually causing retainers to become cloudy.
• Colored mouthwash. The dyes can stain clear aligners, and formulas containing alcohol may be too harsh and damage retainers.
• Hard-bristled toothbrushes. Hard bristles could lead to scratches. A soft-bristled brush is all you need. 
• Bleach or household cleaners. These products aren't intended for anything that goes in your mouth and should never be used to clean aligners or retainers.

When in doubt, stick with lukewarm water, a soft toothbrush, and clear liquid soap. It's a simple routine that helps keep your aligners looking clear and feeling fresh throughout treatment.

Answers to FAQs about how to clean aligners and retainers

Even after you have made a diligent cleaning routine part of your morning and evening routines, questions might spring to mind. Here are answers to some of the questions we hear most often from Invisalign patients.