Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Invisalign®

In our Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Invisalign®, we’ll help you get into a good routine of caring for your tray’s and clear aligners. Part of the success of Invisalign® is attributed to the dedication of patients like you who read these articles and actually use the information to better help your smile and keep progressing through your orthodontic treatment at Spain Orthodontics here in Shoreline, Washington. This article is for those of you who have dedicated time and effort and shown commitment to this treatment method. All in all, we’re here to help illuminate and get you ready to show off your perfect smile.

Why Cleaning your Tray Aligners is Important

Although your morning and evening routine won’t change much with Invisalign®, there are some new habits you should develop.

One habit you’ll need is to rinse your aligners when you remove them for meals and drinking. Gently brushing your aligners under running water with a soft bristle toothbrush is optimal. Always store your alignment trays in the case when they are not in your mouth.

Brush your teeth before reinserting your trays after a meal.

Possibly the most important new habit you’ll need is soaking your trays daily. There are many methods that can be used to give your trays a deep clean.

Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Invisalign®

Determining the time you soak your trays is the first step for all the below soaking methods. Many orthodontists recommend soaking your trays during your daily shower but again this is up to you, the user and patient. However, this normally allows enough time for adequate soaking and causes less interruption in your normal routine. Again though, it’s your life so you do what you need depending on your own routine. Your aligners or retainers can be cleaned in only 15 to 20 minutes so, whether you’re showering, getting dressed or having breakfast, you decide when to clean them but, just remember to clean them please!

Invisalign® Cleaning Crystals

There are quick and effective options to clean your Invisalign clear aligners. One way is with Invisalign’s Aligner Cleaning Foam and it works to freshen breath, keep your retainers and aligners odor free and of course, designed by Invisalign themselves. Another option are cleaning crystals, which of course is also brand name and top of the line, Invisalign Cleaning Crystals. Not only do they work wonders but these don’t even require going to the practice, just order from wherever you are and receive in a few days. Also, some dental and orthodontic offices, retail stores, pharmacies, and online retailers have these but we’ve found the best one’s from Invisalign and these will entirely clean your aligner. Just soak your aligners in the provided trays for 10 to 20 minutes.

Let’s take a look at some of the best and easiest ways to keep you fresh throughout the day and your smile looking beautiful!

Invisalign’s Crystal Cleaning Magic

1. Remove aligner trays and rinse
2. Fill a container or small bowl with enough lukewarm water to cover trays
3. Mix Crystals with water
4. Insert trays and soak for 10 to 20 minutes

Denture/Retainer Tablets

Denture or retainer tablets can be used, although you should avoid tablets with added coloring as they can tint your trays.

1. Remove aligner trays and rinse
2. Fill a small bowl or container with enough water to cover trays
3. Dissolve the denture and retainer cleaning tablet in the water (no need to wait, the foaming action helps clean)
4. Insert trays and soak for 10 to 20 minutes

Baking Soda and Water

A quick and easy alternative to prepackaged cleansers is baking soda, which most people already have in their homes. This method does have a longer recommended soaking time but is highly effective.

1. Remove aligner trays and rinse
2. Fill a container or small bowl with enough warm water to cover trays
3. Dissolve one teaspoon of baking soda in the water
4. Insert trays and soak for 20 to 30 minutes

Vinegar and Water

Vinegar is also a very effective natural cleanser. One caution is that you need to rinse the trays really well after using this method or you will be tasting vinegar all day.

1. Remove aligner trays and rinse
2. Fill a container with a 50/50 mix of warm water and distilled white vinegar
3. Insert trays and soak for 20 to 30 minutes

Final Notes

Remember to use only lukewarm water when soaking or rinsing your trays. Hot water can cause damage to the trays so just make a mental note not to use hot water or put your aligners in any boiling pot of water. That would be no good but we have heard stories about this unfortunately.

When cleaning your trays and aligners, always use a soft-bristled brush on your aligners. Hard bristles may cause scratches and make the trays less transparent which exposes the invisible nature of Invisalign, so keep that in mind. Following your soak, you should rinse the trays well and brush them gently to remove cleanser residue.

If you don’t have access to any of the above methods (we did make sure to find the best and most affordable and easily accessible Invisalign options for you), cleaning your trays with a drop of disinfectant soap or dish soap will work in a pinch. Simply add a drop to your toothbrush and gently brush the trays and make sure to rinse them thoroughly so you don’t have soap in your mouth. Again though, the links above provide you with affordable, brand name, easy to use options to keep your smile and your aligners in the best shape possible.

Thinking You Need A Free Consultation For Invisalign Treatment?

You’re always welcome to explore orthodontic treatment options with the finest and most clean and experienced orthodontic practice in Washington, Spain orthodontics. We care not just about getting you treatment but we care about you as a person first and then find the perfect fit for your unique case. We don’t use a ‘one size fits all method like some practices. We’re here for you first, so keep that in mind when you click here to schedule your free initial consultation to see if Invisalign is right for you. You’ll see the ‘Book Online’ option in the top right hand corner so click that and schedule your time. Dr. Spain and his professional and friendly staff are there and always ready to provide you with options and the best orthodontic treatment process in Shoreline, WA and the surrounding areas. Click here to schedule directly or call us today at

We hope that you found our Step-by-Step Guide for Cleaning Invisalign® helpful and if you need further information, we’re hear to answer your questions, comments or address any concerns.

One final thought from Spain Orthodontics team…Daily maintenance of your alignment trays and good oral hygiene practices will ensure success as you discover your perfect smile that we want you to find because well, not only do you deserve it but when you smile, we take that as a win and love being able to provide orthodontic services in our area and see all of the smiles that we’ve transformed and the people that transformed along with their new smile. You have a beautiful smile too so come on in, call, or book a consultation and let’s get a roadmap put together for you and the smile that awaits.

If you have any questions about cleaning or wearing your Invisalign® tray aligners, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

You may use our Contact Form, email us at braceyourself@spainortho.com, or call our office at (206) 693-3123.