Best way to clean a clear retainer - hints and tips please!

[ooto]

I have never thought to try Dawn...what a good suggestion!

[js6js6]

Adding my suggestion, as I don’t think I saw it mentioned yet in the thread.

I’ve been wearing the same essix retainer for15+ years at this point, and I’m a huge advocate for daily rinsing (and brushing if needed), and a monthly(ish) diluted white distilled vinegar soak, followed by a good thorough brushing. I won’t say it’s 100% perfect after 15 years, but looks pretty darn close!

[vampirefangs22]

i just use a toothbrush and some water. The toothbrush really helps to remove all the debris caught in them.

[Lily0405]

Hello!

Do you know if I can use 90⁰ alcohol to clean my clear retainers? I brush them daily with hand soap because I can't stand the smell after removing them (I brush my teeth everyday very thoroughly before putting them on). I feel like even after cleaning the retainers they still have a bit of smell. Or maybe I'm too sensitive. I thought alcohol would kill the bacteria for good but I'm afraid to damage them.

I was wondering if I could boil them or put them in the microwave for 1mn.

[djspeece]

Rubbing alcohol AKA isopropyl alcohol or mouthwash with alcohol is not recommended for cleaning Invisalign-type retainers from everything I have read. Absolutely do NOT use boiling water and do NOT place them in a microwave -- either will destroy your retainers immediately.

If you look on this board index you'll see a section that sells various things to clean retainers -- sponsored by our wonderful board admin. See https://www.dentakit.com/ Some here have used dishwashing soap such as Dawn to get rid of crud. Alcohol does not kill bacteria, by the way - it's best use is to cleanse the skin and help remove dead cells and oily residue.

[djspeece]

The other obvious suggestion I should have made was to simply clean your retainers with toothpaste and use an old toothbrush -- no more nasty smell it this makes them "squeaky clean."