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Can you put mouthwash in a water flosser?

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In short

Many water flosser makers, including Waterpik for many models, say you can add mouthwash to the water, usually diluted, and then run plain water through afterwards to rinse the pump. Others restrict which liquids are allowed. Check your manual first. Never use undiluted strong solutions, essential oils, bleach or anything the manual excludes, and empty and dry the tank after each use.

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Adding mouthwash to a water flosser sounds like an easy way to combine two steps, and many people search for whether it is allowed. The answer depends on the flosser and the mouthwash, so the manual is the final word. This guide explains what makers commonly say, how to dilute and rinse, which liquids to avoid, and how mouthwash affects cleaning and upkeep. It does not make claims about mouthwash itself; the NHS gives general advice on using mouthwash, which is covered below.

What makers say

Waterpik's guidance for many of its models says mouthwash and other oral rinses can be used in the reservoir, and recommends flushing the unit with warm water afterwards. Philips and other makers give their own instructions for their flossers. Some manuals list solutions that must not be used, because they can damage seals or the pump.

Because rules differ, check the manual for your exact model before adding anything other than water. If the manual says water only, stick to water.

How to use mouthwash in a flosser

If your manual allows it, a careful routine protects the unit.

Reservoir (ml)Pressure dialPumpHosePause buttonRotating tip
A countertop water flosser: the pump draws water from the reservoir and sends it up the hose to the tip.
  1. 1

    Check the manual for allowed liquids and any dilution guidance.

  2. 2

    Fill the tank mostly with lukewarm water.

  3. 3

    Add a small amount of mouthwash and mix.

  4. 4

    Floss as normal, starting on a low setting.

  5. 5

    Empty any leftover solution.

  6. 6

    Run a tank of plain warm water through the flosser.

  7. 7

    Leave the tank open to dry.

Why dilute and rinse

Undiluted mouthwash can be harsh on rubber seals and can leave sticky residue in the pump, valve and hose. Over time that can cause leaks or a weaker jet. Diluting reduces the load on the parts, and a plain water flush afterwards clears what is left.

If your flosser starts to leak or loses pressure, see Waterpik leaking and Waterpik not pumping water.

Liquids to keep out

Unless your manual says otherwise, keep the following out of the tank.

  • Undiluted or concentrated rinses.
  • Essential oils, which can damage plastics and seals.
  • Bleach or household cleaners.
  • Iodine or other strong solutions, unless the manual allows them.
  • Very hot water, which can damage parts.

What the NHS says about mouthwash

The NHS advises that you do not use mouthwash straight after brushing, as it washes away the fluoride from toothpaste; if you use one, choose a different time, such as after lunch. Bear this in mind if you water floss straight after brushing with mouthwash in the tank.

The NHS also advises brushing twice a day for about two minutes with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth. A flosser does not replace brushing.

Keeping the flosser clean

Mouthwash residue makes regular cleaning more important. Empty and dry the tank after each use, rinse the tip, and clean and descale the unit as the manual suggests. Our guide to how to clean and descale a water flosser covers the routine.

Flossers that combine with a toothbrush

If you like the idea of one device for brushing and flossing, the Waterpik Sonic-Fusion 2.0 combines a sonic toothbrush with a built-in flosser and lists a 16 oz removable reservoir. It appears in our best sonic electric toothbrush guide. Check its manual on mouthwash before using it.

See the Sonic-Fusion 2.0 →

Water temperature and tank hygiene

Most makers suggest lukewarm water in the tank, which is more comfortable on the teeth than cold water. Avoid very hot water, which can damage parts. Whatever you put in the tank, do not leave it standing for hours or overnight. Empty it after each session, rinse and leave it open to dry. A tank left with liquid in it can collect residue and smells, especially in a warm bathroom. If you see a film or black spots inside the tank or hose, clean the unit as the manual describes. In hard water areas, regular descaling also keeps the pressure steady and helps stop the valve from sticking.

Frequently asked questions

Can I put mouthwash in a Waterpik? Waterpik says mouthwash can be used in many models, followed by a plain water rinse. Check your manual.

How much mouthwash should I add? Follow your manual. If it gives no amount, a small amount diluted in warm water is the usual approach.

Will mouthwash damage my flosser? Undiluted or unsuitable liquids can harm seals. Dilute and rinse afterwards.

Can I use mouthwash in an air flosser? Philips designed AirFloss for water or mouthwash. See air flosser vs water flosser.

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