How to Clean Invisalign Aligners: A Simple Guide for a Healthy Smile

Staff Writer
Oct 17
3 min read

If you’re wearing Invisalign, keeping your aligners sparkling clean is just as important as wearing them every day. When your trays stay clear, your smile looks better, and your treatment stays on track. Let’s go over how to clean Invisalign aligners so you can enjoy fresh breath, fewer stains, and a more confident smile.

Why Cleaning Your Aligners Matters

You already know brushing your teeth is important, but cleaning your aligners is just as essential. If you skip cleaning, your trays can trap bacteria, cause odors, or even discolor. You want your aligners to stay invisible, not cloudy or yellow. Think of your aligners like a favorite pair of glasses, keeping them clear helps you see and feel better.

Daily Routine: Quick and Easy Steps

You don’t need fancy products to keep your trays in shape. You just need a simple daily routine.

Rinse every time you remove them. Always use cool or lukewarm water, never hot, to avoid warping the plastic.
Brush gently. Use a soft toothbrush and clear, unscented soap. Avoid toothpaste, which can scratch and make trays look dull.
Store them safely. Always keep your trays in their case when not in your mouth to prevent damage or loss.

This simple care keeps your aligners fresh and helps you avoid bacteria buildup during the day.

Deep Cleaning: Go Beyond the Basics

Sometimes, aligners need more than a quick rinse. That’s where deep cleaning comes in.

Invisalign Cleaning Crystals: Dissolve one packet in water and soak trays for about 15 minutes.
DIY Solutions: You can use a mix of white vinegar and water or hydrogen peroxide and water if approved by your dentist.
Ultrasonic Cleaners: These devices use sound waves to remove buildup without scrubbing, leaving trays crystal clear.

Deep cleaning once a day or a few times a week gives you extra protection against odor and stains.

Cleaning Options for Invisalign Aligners

Denture Cleaning Tablets

For a deep clean, soak your aligners once a week using denture cleaning tablets. These tablets are designed to work with Invisalign trays. Place the aligners in lukewarm or cool water with a tablet for about 30 minutes.

Antibacterial Soap

A mix of antibacterial soap and warm water helps eliminate bacteria effectively. Let your trays sit in the solution for 10–15 minutes, then gently brush inside the crevices. If calcium deposits remain, switch to a retainer or denture cleaner occasionally.

Baking Soda

With its natural abrasive and antibacterial qualities, baking soda is excellent for removing plaque buildup. Stir one tablespoon into a cup of warm water and soak your aligners for an hour. Afterward, use a soft toothbrush to give them a gentle scrub.

Vinegar

White vinegar is a reliable disinfectant. Combine equal parts vinegar and water, then soak the trays for 15 minutes. After soaking, brush lightly with a soft toothbrush and rinse thoroughly. Be sure to use white vinegar only to prevent discoloration.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Stick with 3% hydrogen peroxide, the same strength often used in mouth rinses, but without the dyes that can stain aligners. Mix equal parts peroxide and warm water, soak for 30 minutes, then brush and rinse. Avoid stronger concentrations, as they may irritate gums or teeth.

What Not to Do With Your Aligners

It’s just as important to know what not to do when learning how to clean Invisalign aligners.

Don’t use hot water, it can warp trays.
Don’t soak in mouthwash, many contain dyes and alcohol that damage plastic.
Don’t brush with abrasive toothpaste or baking soda, these scratch surfaces and invite more bacteria.

When in doubt, keep it simple. Gentle cleaning always works better than harsh methods.

Ready for a Brighter Smile?

Now that you know how to clean Invisalign aligners, you’re one step closer to a healthier, straighter smile. At Dobbs Dental and Cosmetics, we’re here to guide you through every stage of Invisalign treatment.

Schedule a consultation today. We’ll create a personalized treatment plan that keeps your smile bright, healthy, and beautifully aligned.

Call us now to book your Invisalign consultation and get started on your journey to a confident smile!