What Not to Put in an Ultrasonic Cleaner?

Ultrasonic cleaners are popular for keeping retainers and dental appliances sparkling clean. But while they’re effective, not everything is safe to toss into the tank. Whether you're using an ultrasonic cleaner retainer system at home or in a dental clinic, knowing what NOT to put inside can save your appliance, your machine, and your health.

Misusing an ultrasonic cleaner can cause permanent damage to your retainer and reduce the machine's performance.

Why Knowing What Not to Use Matters

An ultrasonic cleaner retainer works by using high-frequency sound waves to generate microscopic bubbles that clean surfaces gently but thoroughly. While it's a great solution for clear aligners and retainers, certain materials or cleaning products can react poorly inside the machine.

Some items may erode, melt, warp, or even release toxic fumes during the cleaning cycle. It’s essential to understand what’s safe—and what isn’t—before you start.

Using the wrong items inside an ultrasonic cleaner can cost you more than just your retainer.

1. Avoid Using Harsh Chemicals

One of the biggest mistakes users make is adding harsh cleaning agents like bleach, ammonia, or alcohol into the tank. These chemicals can:

• Corrode your ultrasonic cleaner retainer

• Break down the plastic in aligners

• Emit dangerous fumes

• Damage the ultrasonic machine itself

Never substitute these for proper ultrasonic cleaner tablets. These tablets are specially designed to be non-toxic, residue-free, and gentle on retainers. They clean effectively without causing harm.

If the cleaner smells like a chemical factory, you're doing it wrong.

2. Don’t Clean Metal or Jewelry Near Retainers

While ultrasonic cleaners are commonly used to clean small metal items like jewelry or tools, it’s risky to clean them alongside your retainer. Here's why:

• Metal particles can scratch plastic retainers

• Cross-contamination may leave your dental appliance coated in oils, grime, or metal residue

• Some metals can react poorly with the ultrasonic tablet, reducing its cleaning power

If you must clean jewelry or coins, do it in a separate cycle—never with your ultrasonic cleaner retainer.

Dental hygiene and jewelry don’t belong in the same bath.

What You Should Keep Out of Your Ultrasonic Cleaner Retainer

Knowing what NOT to use is just as important as knowing what works. Let’s break down some common don’ts.

3. Hot or Boiling Water

Some people think the hotter the water, the better the cleaning results. Unfortunately, that’s not true when it comes to plastic retainers.

Boiling water can warp or permanently damage your retainer.
The ultrasonic waves do the heavy lifting, not the heat. The ideal temperature is lukewarm (not exceeding 110°F or 43°C). Always follow your device’s user manual.

Too much heat turns a cleaning session into a replacement bill.

4. Denture Tablets or Mouthwash

While it might seem logical to throw in a denture cleaning tablet or a splash of mouthwash, this can backfire. Denture tablets are often too strong and may contain persulfates, which have been linked to corroding cleaners.

Instead, use ultrasonic cleaner tablets that are:

• Specifically made for retainers and aligners

• Non-toxic and free from harsh oxidizers

• Compatible with your ultrasonic cleaner retainer system

Using the wrong tablet isn’t just ineffective—it’s dangerous.

5. Toothpaste or Abrasive Pastes

Never add toothpaste or baking soda to the ultrasonic tank. These are abrasive and meant for brushing—not soaking.

Why it’s a problem:

• Abrasive particles won’t dissolve properly

• They can scratch and cloud the clear surface of retainers

• They may clog or damage your ultrasonic device

Just because it works on teeth doesn’t mean it works on retainers.

Safe Practices for Ultrasonic Cleaning

The safest approach is to keep things simple. Use the right tablets, the right temperature, and only items that are known to be safe inside the device.

6. Always Use Ultrasonic Cleaner Tablets

Stick with high-quality ultrasonic tablet options that dissolve completely and are made specifically for dental appliances. These tablets help remove:

• Bacteria

• Odor

• Plaque buildup

• Cloudiness from plastic retainers

They’re also designed to work perfectly with your ultrasonic cleaner retainer, boosting cleaning power without damaging the material.

The right tablet makes all the difference in your daily cleaning routine.

Shocking Risks of Dirty Retainers: 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.

7. Don’t Overload the Machine

It may be tempting to toss in your retainer case, aligners, or even a mouthguard all at once. But overloading the tank reduces cleaning efficiency and may lead to uneven results.

One item at a time is the best practice—especially if it’s a clear aligner or retainer made from delicate materials.

More isn’t better when it comes to ultrasonic cleaning.

Final Tips to Keep in Mind

• ✅ Only use lukewarm water

• ✅ Add one ultrasonic tablet per cycle

• ✅ Clean your machine after each use

• ✅ Don’t mix metals with plastics

• ✅ Never use bleach, alcohol, or peroxide

Treat your ultrasonic cleaner retainer like a precision tool—not a kitchen sink.

Summary

The ultrasonic cleaner retainer is an incredible tool—but only when used correctly. By avoiding certain products and practices, you can keep your retainer in pristine condition while ensuring your cleaner operates efficiently.

Here’s what to never put in your ultrasonic cleaner:

• ❌ Harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia

• ❌ Boiling water

• ❌ Jewelry or mixed materials

• ❌ Abrasive pastes or toothpaste

• ❌ Denture tablets with harmful additives

And what should you use?

• ✅ Safe, effective ultrasonic cleaner tablets

• ✅ One ultrasonic tablet at a time

• ✅ Proper cleaning intervals with care

Clean smarter, not harder. Your retainer—and your mouth—will thank you.

Disclaimer:

The content in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen. The author and publisher do not take responsibility for any consequences resulting from the information provided in this article.