Aligner Cleaning Products That Actually Work—and Ones to Avoid

Keeping your Invisalign or other clear aligners clean is just as important as brushing your teeth. Dirty aligners can lead to bad breath, discoloration, and even trapped bacteria that affect your oral health. With so many options out there—ranging from tablets to DIY hacks—it’s easy to get confused.

This guide breaks down the aligner cleaning products that truly work and the ones you should avoid at all costs.

Why Aligner Cleaning Matters

Aligners sit snugly on your teeth for 20+ hours a day, making them a breeding ground for bacteria. Without proper cleaning, you risk:

• Odor that won’t go away with brushing.

• Plaque buildup that makes your trays cloudy.

• Stains from coffee, tea, or food.

• Health issues like gum irritation or cavities.

Using the right aligner cleaning routine keeps your trays fresh, clear, and safe to wear.

The Best Aligner Cleaning Products

1. Invisalign Cleaning Crystals

One of the most popular products is Invisalign cleaning crystals. These small packets dissolve in water and work by breaking down plaque and bacteria.

• Pros: Designed by Invisalign specifically for their trays; effective at removing odor.

• Cons: Can be expensive over time.

Keyword fit: Many people search for Invisalign crystal cleaners, so they’re often the first stop for aligner users.

2. Weiss Naturals Retainer & Aligner Cleaner

If you’re looking for a persulfate-free alternative, Weiss Naturals is a safe and effective option. It’s easy to use, affordable, and doesn’t cause irritation like some chemical-based cleaners.

Quick Reviews from Real Users:

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Finally, a cleaner that doesn’t irritate my mouth. My aligners look clear every time.”

• ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Way better than denture tablets—my aligners stay odor-free and fresh.”

👉 Check Weiss Naturals on Amazon

3. Ultrasonic Cleaner (with tablets)

An ultrasonic cleaner for aligners can boost results. These devices use sound waves to shake loose buildup. When combined with cleaning tablets, they’re very effective.

• Pros: Removes deep-set buildup that brushing can’t.

• Cons: Buying the device is an upfront cost; not all are safe for aligners.

Shocking Risks of a Dirty Aligner: Could Your Neglect Lead to Serious Health Issues?

Skipping regular retainer cleaning can turn it into a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, leading to infections, Bad breath, and even damage to your teeth and gums. This isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about protecting your health. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

Want to see exactly how to clean your retainer or aligner the right way?

We’ve added a quick video tutorial below to show you step-by-step how to remove bacteria, stains, and odor — without damaging your trays. Whether you're using Invisalign or a clear retainer, this visual guide makes it easy to follow along and keep your trays looking like new.

Products You Should Avoid

1. Regular Toothpaste

It’s tempting to scrub aligners with toothpaste, but most kinds are too abrasive. Over time, they scratch the plastic, making trays look cloudy.

2. Mouthwash

Colored or alcohol-based mouthwashes can stain and weaken aligners. Even “clear” ones aren’t designed for prolonged plastic contact.

3. Cheap Denture Tablets

Not all denture cleaners are safe. Many contain persulfates, which can cause allergic reactions or damage your trays.

Comparison Table: Best Aligner Cleaning Options