How To Clean a Water Flosser

A water flosser can offer multiple benefits if you have braces, making it a valuable tool for your oral hygiene. To help ensure the effectiveness of your water flosser, it’s important to keep it clean. Here’s a guide to help you learn how to clean a water flosser.

How To Clean a Water Flosser the Right Way

Orthodontists often recommend water flossers as a complement to brushing, since these tools are quick, convenient, and effective. They are particularly useful for removing food particles trapped in braces, helping you maintain a clean mouth. Of course, you need to know how to clean a water flosser to maximize its effectiveness. Here are the steps to follow:

Daily Maintenance: After Each Use

After each use, pour out any remaining water in the reservoir to prevent bacteria and mineral buildup. Then, wipe the inside of the reservoir with a clean cloth to remove moisture. Lastly, you will need to detach the flossing tip and rinse it under warm water to remove any debris.

Weekly Cleaning: Deep Cleaning Routine

Each week, you need to perform a deep cleaning routine. The first step of this routine is to remove the water reservoir, flossing tip and any other removable parts. Next, wash the reservoir with warm, soapy water using a soft cloth or sponge. For stubborn buildup, use a mixture of one part white vinegar to two parts water. Rinse thoroughly.

After rinsing, place the tip in a cup filled with white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for 5-7 minutes to disinfect and remove buildup. Rinse with warm water afterward.

Next, wipe down the handle and nozzle with a damp cloth. Use a cotton swab dipped in vinegar to clean the nozzle opening where the tip attaches.

Lastly, you will need to fill the reservoir with a mixture of one part white vinegar and two parts warm water. Run the flosser until the reservoir is empty to clean the internal parts. Follow up with a rinse using clean water.

Monthly Cleaning: For Hard Water and Heavy Use

If the water you get from your faucet is hard–meaning it has high levels of minerals–you will need to descale the system monthly. This is because minerals can accumulate inside the water flosser.

Descale by filling the reservoir with a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and warm water. Run the flosser until the reservoir is empty. Then you need to flush it again with clean water to remove any vinegar residue.

Each month you should also check for wear and tear on the flossing tips. Most tips should be replaced every 3-6 months for optimal performance.

Storing the Water Flosser

Storing the water flosser properly is key to maintaining its effectiveness. Store the water flosser with the reservoir empty and detached to allow it to dry thoroughly. To prevent mold and mildew, keep the unit in a well-ventilated area.

Clean Your Water Flosser Routinely

To maintain excellent oral hygiene during your orthodontic treatment, it’s important to understand how to clean a water flosser correctly. If you have any questions about orthodontic care or are ready to take the first step toward the smile of your dreams, contact us at Peterson Family Orthodontics. Our team is here to help you every step of the way!