How to Clean Aligners

Wondering how to clean aligners the right way? Learn the best methods to keep your clear aligners clean, protected, and odor-free with tips from Paul DiFranco Orthodontics.

Why Cleaning Your Aligners Matters

Clear aligners sit snugly against your teeth for 20 to 22 hours a day. That’s a lot of time for bacteria and food particles to get trapped inside your trays. If you don’t clean them consistently, you may start to notice:

• Bad breath
• Cloudy, discolored trays
• Increased risk of cavities or gum inflammation
• A strange taste when wearing them

Luckily, learning how to clean aligners is easy—and only takes a few minutes a day.

How to Clean Invisalign Aligners and Spark Aligners

If you’re using clear aligners like Spark™ or Invisalign® to straighten your teeth, you’re already on the path to a confident, healthier smile. But aligners need regular care to stay clean, odor-free, and clear. One of the most common questions we get at our orthodontic office is how to clean aligners properly without damaging them.

Maintaining your aligners is just as important as wearing them the right number of hours per day. Clean aligners ensure that bacteria and plaque don’t build up inside your trays—and that your teeth stay healthy throughout your orthodontic treatment.

Let’s walk through the best ways to clean your aligners, what to avoid, and how a few daily habits can make a big difference in your overall results.

Daily Cleaning For Your Aligners

Cleaning your aligners should become part of your morning and nighttime oral hygiene routine. Follow these simple steps each time you brush your teeth:

1. Rinse as Soon as You Remove Your Aligners

Whenever you take your aligners out (whether to eat, drink anything besides water, or brush your teeth), rinse them under cool or lukewarm water. This helps wash away saliva and plaque before it has a chance to harden.

Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic and affect the fit of your trays.

2. Use a Soft Toothbrush

Using a soft-bristled toothbrush (not your regular one for teeth), gently brush your aligners on all sides. A few drops of clear, unscented hand soap or liquid dish soap can help lift away bacteria and grime without leaving a film.

Don’t use toothpaste. Most brands are too abrasive and can scratch your aligners, making them look cloudy.

3. Let Them Air Dry

After cleaning, place your aligners in a clean container or tray to dry. Avoid drying them with tissues or cloth towels, which can leave lint or scratch the surface.

Deep Cleaning For Aligners: Once or Twice a Week

In addition to your daily routine, a deeper clean once or twice a week helps keep your aligners ultra-clear and free from bacteria buildup.

Here are a few safe methods:

Soak in Cleaning Crystals or Tablets

Aligner cleaning crystals, also called retainer-cleaning tablets, can be used to soak your trays for 15–30 minutes. Just make sure to rinse thoroughly afterward and brush off any residue.

Use a White Vinegar and Water Solution

Combine one part white vinegar with three parts lukewarm water. Then, let your aligners soak in the mixture for 15 minutes. This method helps break down mineral deposits and kill bacteria without harming the material.

Hydrogen Peroxide Soak

For extra germ-killing power, soak your trays in a solution of equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide for about 15 minutes. Again, be sure to rinse and brush your aligners afterward to remove any aftertaste.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Aligners

While there are several great ways to clean aligners, there are also a few things you should never do:

• No boiling or microwaving: High heat will warp your aligners and make them unusable.
• No alcohol-based mouthwashes: These can damage and discolor the plastic.
• No colored soaps: Dyes in soap may stain your clear aligners.
• No scented cleaners: Fragrances can linger and irritate your mouth.

If you’re ever unsure whether a product is safe to use, give us a call—we’re happy to help you keep your aligners in top shape.

Additional Tips to Keep Aligners Clean

Beyond just brushing and soaking, a few smart habits can keep your aligners cleaner longer:

• Brush and floss before wearing them: Trapping food and plaque between your teeth and the tray can quickly lead to odor and staining.
• Only drink water while wearing aligners: Colored drinks like coffee, tea, or soda can stain your trays, and sugary drinks can promote bacteria buildup.
• Store aligners in their case: Never wrap them in a napkin or leave them exposed. You’ll reduce your chances of losing them or picking up harmful bacteria.
• Replace as directed: Even with perfect care, aligners are meant to be temporary. Following your wear schedule ensures you get optimal results with each new set.

Don’t Neglect Your Smile—Keep Up With Orthodontic Care

Cleaning your aligners doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few minutes of care each day, you can keep your trays clear, fresh, and effective throughout your treatment. Knowing how to clean aligners properly helps you protect your oral health, avoid stains and odors, and feel confident every time you smile.

At Paul DiFranco Orthodontics, we’re here to guide you through every step of your orthodontic journey. From fitting your first aligner to sharing tips on keeping them clean, we make sure you’re comfortable and informed the whole way through.

If you need advice on cleaning your clear aligners—or if you’re ready to start your smile transformation—schedule a free consultation with us today. We’re proud to serve local families with expert orthodontic care.