Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Cleaning Their Aligners
Clear aligners are a popular choice for straightening teeth because they’re discreet and comfortable. But keeping them clean is just as important as wearing them. If you don’t clean them properly, you can end up with staining, bad breath, and a build-up of bacteria that affects both your aligners and your oral health.
At Sereclean, we’ve seen the most common mistakes people make when cleaning aligners and we’ve created the Sereclean Pod to solve them. Here are the top five to avoid.
1. Using Toothpaste or Harsh Cleaners
Toothpaste is designed for teeth, not aligners. Its abrasive particles can scratch the plastic, leaving aligners cloudy and more likely to hold onto bacteria. Strong cleaners like mouthwash or soap can also damage the material and leave a bad taste.
2. Only Rinsing with Water
A quick rinse under the tap might make aligners look clean, but water alone doesn’t remove bacteria, plaque, or food residue. Over time, this can lead to odour and oral health issues, even if your aligners appear clear.
3. Soaking in the Wrong Solutions
People sometimes turn to DIY methods—like vinegar, bleach, or denture tablets—to clean their aligners. These can weaken the plastic, distort the shape, and irritate your gums. Aligner materials need gentler care.
4. Inconsistent Cleaning Routine
Aligners are worn for most of the day, which means bacteria builds up quickly. Cleaning them only once a day isn’t enough and can cause bad breath, discoloration, and poor hygiene. Consistency is key to keeping aligners fresh.
5. Forgetting About the Case
Even if you clean your aligners properly, a dirty case can undo the work. Cases that are never cleaned or left damp become a breeding ground for bacteria, which then transfers back onto your aligners.
Why Sereclean Sets the Standard
The Sereclean Pod uses ultrasonic technology to clean aligners deeply and safely without harsh chemicals or scrubbing. In just a few minutes, it removes the bacteria and buildup that rinsing or soaking can’t. That means:
- Clear aligners without scratches
- Fresher breath and better hygiene
- No chemicals just water and ultrasonic wave
- A quick, portable solution for home or travel
Thousands of aligner wearers are already making the switch. If you want your aligners to stay clear, fresh, and hygienic, the Sereclean Pod is the smart choice.
Learn more about the Sereclean Pod here.
