Best Tips For How To Clean Retainers Properly

In this easy-to-follow guide, learn the best tips for how to clean retainers properly and the most effective ways to keep your retainers sparkling clean for a bright smile and enduring oral health.

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Jump to:

Why Cleaning Retainers Is Important
Different Types of Retainers
Daily Cleaning: The Simplest Method
Deep Cleaning Methods
Special Considerations for Permanent Retainers
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Tips for a Long-Lasting Retainer
A Quick Shopping List
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts on How To Clean Your Retainers Properly

If your teen (or even you!) has recently finished an orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth, congratulations are in order. After the hard work of wearing metal braces or clear aligners, there’s nothing quite like seeing that beautiful smile emerge. But the journey doesn’t stop once the braces come off—now, the focus shifts to proper retainer care. Retainers are essential for maintaining the original positions of those newly aligned teeth, ensuring they don’t shift back over time. However, if you’re a busy mum, you’ve probably already discovered that teaching your teen to clean retainers can be a bit of a challenge!

In this post, we’ll explore effective ways to keep your teen’s retainer fresh, clean, and free of buildup of bacteria. We’ll cover different types of retainers, daily cleaning, and deep cleaning methods. By following these simple steps, you can help your child maintain good oral hygiene and preserve their healthy smile for a long time to come. So pop the kettle on (though we won’t be using hot water on the retainer!), and let’s dive into the best way to handle retainer cleaning.

Why Cleaning Retainers Is Important

A dirty retainer can quickly become a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria, leading to bad odors, potential gum disease, and even bad breath. Not to mention, an unclean retainer can develop mineral deposits, plaque buildup, and calcium buildup on the retainer’s surface—all of which can affect its fit and potentially alter the shape of the retainer. As mums, we all want to ensure our children continue to enjoy a beautiful smile and avoid any additional dental issues, so taking proper care of the retainer is crucial.

When cleaning becomes a habit—just like brushing and flossing—it protects the entire mouth’s oral health. Plus, a well-maintained retainer will last longer and help preserve those original positions of the teeth. Given how much braces or aligner treatments can cost, it’s definitely a good idea to do all you can to avoid needing a new retainer prematurely!

Different Types of Retainers

Before we talk cleaning process, it’s helpful to understand that there are different kinds of retainers—and each type of retainer may need slightly different care. Your teen might have:

Hawley Retainers: These are the traditional style retainers that use a metal wire spanning the front teeth, with an acrylic base that rests against the roof of the mouth (upper arch) or along the inside of the lower teeth. They’re removable retainers, which makes them easier to clean, but the metal components require gentle handling to prevent bending.
Essix Retainers (also known as clear retainers or clear plastic retainers): These look very similar to clear aligners (like Invisalign trays). They’re removable and less noticeable. However, because they’re made from more porous materials, they can more easily trap food particles, bacteria buildup, and harmful bacteria. Regular and thorough cleaning is crucial to keep them clear and odor-free.
Permanent Retainer: Sometimes, an orthodontist bonds a metal wire behind the front teeth to hold them in place. While you don’t remove this type of retainer, special cleaning steps (like using floss threaders) are needed to ensure no food debris gets stuck around the metal components.

No matter which of these orthodontic retainers your child has, consistent daily cleaning and the occasional deep cleaning will be an essential step to maintain it. Read on to find out how to clean retainers properly.

Daily Cleaning: The Simplest Method

The simplest method to keep on top of retainer cleaning is a daily cleaning routine—just as we brush our teeth daily!

Rinse with Lukewarm or Cool Water
Encourage your child to remove their removable retainer and rinse it under lukewarm water or cool water immediately after taking it out. Cold water is also fine, but be sure never to use hot water as it can warp clear plastic retainers like Essix retainers. A warped retainer may lose its better position and no longer fit properly.
Brush Gently
Using a soft-bristle toothbrush (or soft toothbrush), gently brush the retainer’s surface to dislodge food particles. Avoid using regular toothpaste that contains abrasive elements, as it can cause tiny scratches on clear retainers. Instead, use a mild soap—like castile soap—to keep it clean without damaging the material.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Although it might be tempting to zap away bacteria with strong cleaning agents, stay away from harsh chemicals or highly abrasive products. These could damage porous materials, compromise the type of retainer, and even lead to an odd taste or harmful substances being in contact with your teen’s mouth.
Dry and Store Properly
After rinsing and brushing, ensure the retainer is thoroughly dried. Moisture can encourage bacterial growth, so it’s a good idea to pat the retainer gently with a clean cloth or paper towel. Then, store it in a retainer case to keep it safe from damage (and from being lost!).

By building this habit of daily cleaning, you’ll prevent a lot of the issues that can come from an unclean retainer.

Deep Cleaning Methods

While daily cleaning is essential, you’ll also want to do a deep cleaning from time to time—especially if you notice signs of wear, bad odors, or any visible mineral deposits. Here are some effective ways to do a more intense retainer soak:

1. White Vinegar Soak

A vinegar soak is a great way to remove calcium buildup, plaque buildup, and other gunk without resorting to harsh chemicals.

How to Do It: Mix equal parts water (preferably distilled water) and white vinegar in a small container. Submerge the retainer for about 20 minutes. This solution helps dissolve deposits and kill bacteria buildup.
Afterwards: Gently brush the retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush to dislodge any loosened buildup. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water before placing it back in your mouth or storing in the retainer case.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide Rinse

Hydrogen peroxide is another tried-and-tested household ingredient that can help disinfect retainers.

How to Do It: Create a solution of half hydrogen peroxide and half lukewarm water. Let the retainer soak for around 15 minutes.
Afterwards: Brush gently to remove debris, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.

Make sure not to soak your retainer in this solution for too long, as prolonged exposure to hydrogen peroxide may damage certain porous materials or irritate gum tissue if not rinsed properly.

3. Baking Soda Paste or Solution

A baking soda paste is another easy way to gently scrub away food debris and plaque buildup.

How to Make It: Mix baking soda with a small amount of lukewarm water until a paste forms. Alternatively, you can create a baking soda solution by dissolving one teaspoon of baking soda in a cup of water.
How to Use It: Use a soft toothbrush to gently apply the paste to your retainer, or let it soak in the solution for 15-20 minutes.
Why It Works: Baking soda is slightly abrasive and can help neutralize odors while removing buildup of bacteria.

4. Denture Cleaner or Effervescent Tablets

Commercial products like denture cleaner or effervescent tablets (often labeled as retainer cleaners) can be a simple step toward maintaining a cleaning process that is quick, easy, and reliable.

Example Product: Efferdent Retainer Cleaning Tablets on Amazon
How to Use: Follow the instructions on the box—usually, you’ll dissolve a tablet in lukewarm water or cool water and let the retainer soak for the recommended time.
Important: Rinse thoroughly afterward to remove any residual chemicals.

5. Ultrasonic Cleaner

An ultrasonic cleaner is a small machine that uses ultrasonic waves to dislodge debris and bacteria buildup from retainers, jewelry, and more. This can be incredibly effective for removing residue from hard-to-reach areas.

Example Product: Ultrasonic Cleaner for Retainers on Amazon
Pros: Does a thorough job, easy to use.
Cons: Can be an investment if you’re not planning on using it frequently.

Special Considerations for Permanent Retainers

A permanent retainer (also called a bonded retainer) isn’t removable, which means you need a different strategy to keep it clean:

Use Floss Threaders
Flossing around a metal wire that’s cemented behind the teeth can be tricky. Floss threaders help guide the floss under the wire, ensuring you can remove food particles and reduce plaque buildup.
Stick to Your Brushing Routine
Encourage your teen to gently brush along the gum line and around the wire to prevent bacterial growth.
Non-Alcoholic Mouthwash
A non-alcoholic mouthwash can help kill harmful bacteria without irritating the gums or drying out the mouth.

With proper use of floss threaders, a good brushing technique, and mouthwash, your child can maintain a clean retainer and avoid issues like gum disease or dangerous bacteria buildup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Hot Water
Reiterating this point because it’s a biggie: never use hot water on clear plastic retainers (like Essix retainers) or Hawley’s acrylic portion. Heat can warp the plastic or distort the metal wire, affecting the retainer’s shape.
Scrubbing with Regular Toothpaste
This can create micro-scratches on the retainer’s surface, which become a breeding ground for bacteria buildup. Over time, it can even change the clarity of clear retainers.
Using Harsh or Abrasive Cleaners
While it might be tempting to use bleach or stronger cleaning product to ensure a sparkling retainer, these harsh chemicals can do more harm than good. They can degrade acrylic or plastic and leave harmful substances behind.
Skipping the Soak
Although daily cleaning is crucial, skipping a regular retainer soak for an extended period can lead to an accumulation of mineral deposits, food debris, and bacteria buildup.
Not Replacing an Old or Damaged Retainer
Retainers can only last for so many years. Keep an eye out for signs of wear, like cracks or a consistently poor fit. A retainer that doesn’t fit will not keep the teeth in their better position and may cause more trouble than help.

Tips for a Long-Lasting Retainer

Store Your Retainer Safely
Always place removable retainers in a retainer case when not in use. It reduces the chance of losing them or accidentally throwing them away.
Keep an Eye on Fit
If your child complains that their retainer feels too tight or too loose, or if it causes discomfort, consult your orthodontist. Teeth can shift over time, and it might be time for a new retainer or adjustments.
Use Mild Cleansers
Gentle cleaning agents like castile soap, soda water, or a baking soda solution are often sufficient for routine cleaning. For deeper cleaning, consider an effervescent tablet or denture cleaner specifically designed for retainer cleaning.
Replace When Necessary
While most retainers can last quite a while with proper retainer care, they aren’t indestructible. Acrylic and plastic can wear down, and metal components can bend. Replacing a worn retainer ensures your child keeps that healthy smile intact.
Olive Oil for Stubborn Stains
Believe it or not, a tiny dab of olive oil on a soft-bristled toothbrush can help loosen stubborn deposits. You’d follow this by a thorough rinse with lukewarm water and perhaps a mild soap wash. This is more of a home remedy and not for everyday use, but it can be a lifesaver in certain cases.

A Quick Shopping List

If you’re looking for cleaning tablets, soft-bristle toothbrushes, or even an ultrasonic cleaner, here are a few items that might help:

Retainer Cleaning Tablets
- Example: Retainer Brite Tablets
  
  These tablets dissolve quickly in lukewarm water and help remove stains and odors.
Ultrasonic Cleaner
- Example: Portable Ultrasonic Cleaner
  
  A great way to get a thorough deep cleaning without much effort.
Castile Soap
- Example: Dr. Bronner’s Pure C a stile Soap
  
  Perfect for a gentle wash that won’t damage porous materials.
Floss Threaders
- Example: GUM Eez-Thru Floss Threaders
  
  Essential for cleaning around a permanent retainer or metal wire.
Non-Alcoholic Mouthwash
- Example: Crest Pro-Health Alcohol Free Rinse
  
  An additional step to kill harmful bacteria around the teeth and retainer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use My Usual Toothpaste for Cleaning?
It’s best to avoid regular toothpaste for clear retainers or Hawley retainers because it can be abrasive. Opt for a mild soap like castile soap or a specialized retainer cleaning solution.
How Often Should I Soak My Retainer?
Aim for a retainer soak at least once a week in a vinegar soak, hydrogen peroxide solution, or baking soda solution to remove plaque buildup and mineral deposits.
Will My Retainer Last Forever?
Most retainers will last a long time with proper care, but eventually, they can show signs of wear. Inspect it regularly and consult the orthodontist if you suspect damage.
Is It Okay to Leave My Retainer Out Overnight?
Always follow the orthodontist’s guidance. Typically, you’ll be asked to wear your retainer nightly (or as directed) to maintain alignment. Leaving it out too often could lead to teeth shifting out of their original positions.
What if My Retainer Smells Bad?
Bad odors usually point to buildup of bacteria. A thorough deep cleaning with denture cleaner, effervescent tablets, or a vinegar soak should help. Consider daily rinsing and gentle brushing to prevent reoccurrence.

Final Thoughts on How To Clean Your Retainers Properly

Taking care of your retainer is an essential step in maintaining all the benefits of your teen’s orthodontic treatment. With a consistent cleaning process, a well-maintained retainer can last for years, ensuring that all the hard work (and financial investment) you’ve put into achieving that healthy smile doesn’t go to waste. By using lukewarm water, avoiding hot water, choosing mild soap or specially formulated retainer cleaners, and performing regular cleaning sessions, you’ll significantly reduce bacterial growth, plaque buildup, and harmful bacteria that can cause odors and damage.

Remember: a clean retainer is not just about appearances—it’s about supporting good oral hygiene, preventing dental issues like gum disease, and preserving that beautiful smile for a long time. Whether your teen has Essix retainers, Hawley retainers, or a permanent retainer, the core principles remain the same. Use lukewarm water or cool water, skip the harsh chemicals, and store it in a retainer case when not in use. With a bit of help and direction, your teen will quickly get into the habit of proper retainer care—and if they need a nudge, a gentle mum reminder usually does the trick!

Here’s wishing you and your family a lifetime of good oral hygiene and healthy smiles. If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below. Happy retainer cleaning!

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