12 Best Retainer Cleaner Products for 2025: Tablets & More

12 Best Retainer Cleaner Products for 2025: Tablets & More

If you wear a retainer, aligners, or a night guard, you know how quickly they pick up a cloudy film, funky odors, and stubborn white deposits. A quick scrub with toothpaste can scratch clear plastic, mouthwash can discolor or degrade materials, and hot water can warp the fit—so “just cleaning it” isn’t as simple as it sounds. The right cleaner should remove biofilm, odor, and tartar without damaging your appliance or your mouth, and it should be fast and easy enough that you’ll actually use it.

This updated 2025 roundup highlights 12 standout retainer cleaner products—tablets, foams, crystals, ultrasonic pods, and UV devices—so you can choose a routine that fits your schedule and budget. For each pick, you’ll see what it is, how it works, who it’s best for, price and where to buy, plus practical tips (like persulfate-free options for sensitive users and how to prevent cloudiness in clear retainers). We weighed ingredient safety, material compatibility with common thermoplastics, speed, portability, and real cost per clean across trusted names like Retainer Brite, Efferdent, Polident, Invisalign crystals, Zima and JS Dental Lab devices, and convenient options from Remi. Ready to keep your retainer crystal-clear—and odor-free—without guesswork? Let’s compare your best options.

1. Remi Ultrasonic Cleaner Pro

If you want a fast, no-scrub way to deep-clean clear retainers and night guards without risking scratches, Remi’s Ultrasonic Cleaner Pro is a smart anchor for your routine. It pairs especially well with custom Remi retainers and guards, but works for most removable appliances made from common dental plastics.

What it is

A compact countertop ultrasonic device designed to clean [retainers](https://shopremi.com/products/g-removable-retainers), aligners, and night guards using water. It’s part of Remi’s ecosystem of retainer cleaner products and oral-care accessories built for everyday, at-home use.

How it works

Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create microscopic “cavitation” bubbles in water that lift away plaque, biofilm, and debris from every contour—no abrasive brushing required. You can run it with plain room‑temperature water, and optionally add a cleaning tablet if you want extra deodorizing on heavy-build‑up days.

Who it's for

Great for anyone with clear thermoplastic retainers or guards who wants to avoid micro-scratches from toothpaste, needs a time-saving daily clean, or prefers a water‑only, low‑chemical approach. It’s also ideal if you rotate between travel and home and want consistent results without guesswork.

Price and where to buy

Available directly from Remi at shopremi.com. Check the product page for current pricing and any bundle deals with custom retainers or night guards.

Good to know

• Gentle on clear plastics: Avoids abrasive brushing that can cloud aligners and retainers.
• Use lukewarm water: Hot water can warp plastic appliances.
• Optional boost: Pair with a tablet soak once or twice a week for stain and odor control.
• Dry after cleaning: Rinse well and let your retainer air‑dry before storing.
• Skip mouthwash and whitening pastes: Alcohols and abrasives can discolor or degrade materials.

2. Remi Night Guard Cleaning + Teeth Whitening Foam

Busy days don’t always leave time for tablet soaks. Remi’s Night Guard Cleaning + Teeth Whitening Foam gives you a quick, mess-free way to freshen your appliance and brighten your smile with one product. Among retainer cleaner products, this is the easy daily option that keeps odors at bay without abrasive scrubbing.

What it is

A dual-purpose foam formulated to clean removable dental appliances (night guards, retainers, aligners) and to whiten teeth as part of your regular brushing routine.

How it works

The airy foam spreads into crevices on clear plastics to lift surface buildup and refresh your appliance between deeper cleans. You can also use it when brushing to support teeth-whitening benefits over time. It’s a non-abrasive way to keep plastics clear and your breath fresher—especially useful on travel days or after meals when a full soak isn’t practical.

Who it's for

Ideal if you want fast daily freshness with minimal steps, use clear thermoplastic retainers or night guards that you don’t want to scratch, or prefer a cleaner you can use both on your appliance and your teeth. It also pairs well with an ultrasonic device for a simple daily-plus-weekly routine.

Price and where to buy

Available directly from Remi at shopremi.com. Check the product page for current pricing and bundle options with custom retainers or night guards.

Good to know

• Use daily: Pump foam on the appliance, gently brush or swish per label directions, rinse thoroughly, and let air-dry.
• Rinse well: Always rinse the retainer or guard before reinserting to avoid aftertaste.
• Be heat-smart: Stick to cool or lukewarm water; hot water can warp plastic.
• Layer your routine: Foam for daily freshness; add a tablet soak or ultrasonic clean 1–2 times weekly for stain and odor control.
• Skip abrasives and alcohol: Toothpaste grit and alcohol-based mouthwashes can scratch or discolor clear plastics.
• Storage tip: Keep caps closed and store in a cool, dry place to preserve foam performance.

3. Retainer Brite cleaning tablets

When you want a simple, proven tablet that keeps removable appliances fresh without scrubbing, Retainer Brite is the classic pick. It’s widely recommended for clear retainers, Invisalign-style aligners, mouthguards, and night guards, and it fits neatly into any routine alongside an ultrasonic cleaner or as a standalone daily soak.

What it is

Effervescent cleaning tablets formulated for removable dental appliances. They’re designed to help remove odor, surface stains, and biofilm while being gentle on common dental plastics.

How it works

Drop one tablet into a cup of lukewarm water, then soak your retainer for about 15 minutes. The effervescent action lifts debris and targets odor‑causing bacteria; rinse thoroughly with water before wearing again. Many orthodontic teams suggest daily or several‑times‑per‑week use.

Who it's for

Great for anyone who wants a no‑mess, travel‑friendly clean; clear thermoplastic retainer users who want to avoid abrasive toothpaste; and night guard wearers looking to keep odors down between deeper cleans.

Price and where to buy

Sold online and in stores through major retailers. Pricing varies by pack size (often sold in multi‑week or multi‑month supplies). Choose the count that matches how often you plan to soak.

Good to know

• Works fast: Typical soak time is around 15 minutes.
• For removable appliances: Use on retainers, aligners, mouthguards, and night guards—avoid fixed/bonded appliances.
• Use lukewarm water: Hot water can warp plastic.
• Rinse well: Always rinse thoroughly after soaking to remove residue.
• Check ingredients if sensitive: Some cleaning tablets contain persulfates; review the label if you have known sensitivities.
• Pair with devices: Combine with an ultrasonic cleaner 1–2× weekly for tougher buildup or tartar spots.

4. Efferdent Retainer Clean & Bright tablets

If speed is your top priority, Efferdent’s Retainer Clean & Bright is a standout among retainer cleaner products for its rapid 3‑minute cycle. It’s formulated for retainers, aligners, night guards, and mouthguards, targeting odor and stain build‑up without abrasive scrubbing.

What it is

Anti-bacterial, effervescent cleansing tablets made for removable dental appliances. The formula is designed to freshen and brighten plastics by tackling odor, discoloration, and surface debris.

How it works

Drop one tablet into lukewarm water and soak your retainer; Efferdent states it kills 99.99% of odor‑causing bacteria in just 3 minutes. Its oxi‑action helps dissolve tough stains and remove discoloration, so clear retainers look clearer and smell cleaner. Rinse thoroughly before reinserting.

Who it's for

Perfect for anyone who wants a fast, dependable clean—busy aligner wearers, night guard users sensitive to lingering odors, and anyone managing tea/coffee stain build‑up. It’s also a good complement to an ultrasonic routine when you want extra deodorizing and brightening.

Price and where to buy

Commonly available online and at major retailers in multiple pack sizes. Choose a count that fits your routine (daily soaks vs. a few times per week) to optimize cost per clean.

Good to know

• Rapid cycle: Typical soak time is about 3 minutes.
• Use lukewarm water: Hot water can warp plastic appliances.
• Rinse well: Always rinse thoroughly after soaking to remove residue.
• For removable appliances: Not for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Ingredient check: If you have a persulfate sensitivity, review the label before use.
• Layer your routine: Use Efferdent for quick odor control; add a weekly ultrasonic clean for deep debris removal.

5. Polident ProGuard & Retainer cleaning tablets

Polident’s ProGuard & Retainer tablets are a dependable, easy add to your daily routine if you want a gentle soak that freshens clear retainers, aligners, and guards without abrasion. As one of the most recognized retainer cleaner products, it focuses on odor control and everyday film removal while being safe for common dental plastics.

What it is

Effervescent cleansing tablets designed specifically for removable dental appliances, including retainers, aligners, mouthguards, night guards, and sportsguards.

How it works

Dissolve one tablet in lukewarm water and soak your appliance per the label directions. The effervescence lifts debris and targets odor‑causing bacteria; Polident states it kills 99.9% of odor‑causing bacteria while being gentle on appliance materials. Rinse thoroughly before wearing.

Who it's for

Good for users who want a recognizable, pharmacy‑available tablet for routine freshness; clear retainer and night guard wearers who prefer a non‑abrasive clean; and anyone sensitive to lingering odors who doesn’t want to risk scratches from toothpaste.

Price and where to buy

Widely available online and at major retailers in multi‑count packs. Choose the pack size that aligns with your soak frequency (daily vs. a few times weekly) to keep cost per clean predictable.

Good to know

• Gentle on materials: Formulated not to damage mouthguard, night guard, sportsguard, and retainer plastics.
• Use lukewarm water: Hot water can warp thermoplastic appliances.
• Rinse thoroughly: Remove all tablet residue before reinserting.
• Check sensitivities: Some tablets contain persulfates; review ingredients if you’ve had reactions.
• Removable appliances only: Not intended for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Layer your routine: Use tablets for daily freshness; add an ultrasonic clean 1–2× weekly for deeper plaque and tartar removal.
• Storage tip: Keep tablets dry and sealed to preserve effervescence and cleaning power.

6. Invisalign cleaning crystals

If you’re wearing Invisalign aligners or Vivera retainers, these branded crystals are a convenient addition to your toolkit of retainer cleaner products. The single‑use packets are travel‑easy and deliver a predictable clean without abrasive scrubbing, helping clear plastics stay clearer and fresher between deep cleans.

What it is

Single‑use packets of cleaning crystals formulated by Invisalign for Invisalign aligners and Vivera retainers. A standard kit includes 50 packets, and the system is designed to clean in about 15 minutes.

How it works

Dissolve one packet in a cup of lukewarm water, then soak your aligners or retainers for roughly 15 minutes. The solution helps lift residue and odor from the plastic without brushing. Rinse thoroughly with water before wearing again to remove any leftover solution.

Who it's for

Best for Invisalign and Vivera users who want a brand‑matched cleaner with a consistent 15‑minute routine. It’s also a good fit if you prefer pre‑measured, single‑use packets for on‑the‑go cleaning or want to avoid abrasive toothpaste on clear thermoplastics.

Price and where to buy

Available directly from Invisalign online as a 50‑packet set. Check the product page for current pricing and availability.

Good to know

These quick tips help you get the most from the crystals while protecting your appliance.

• Use lukewarm (not hot) water; heat can warp clear plastics.
• Follow the 15‑minute soak; do not over‑soak.
• Rinse thoroughly after soaking to remove any residue.
• For removable appliances only; not for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Packets are travel‑friendly; stash a few in your case.
• Layer your routine: crystals for routine freshness, plus a weekly ultrasonic clean for deeper debris removal.
• Store packets sealed and dry to maintain potency.

7. Zima Dental Pod ultrasonic cleaner

Looking for a deep clean without brushing or chemicals? The Zima Dental Pod is frequently recommended by dentists as a best‑in‑class ultrasonic option, delivering fast, thorough cleaning that’s gentle on clear plastics. It’s a standout among retainer cleaner products if you want consistent, lab‑style results at home.

What it is

A countertop ultrasonic cleaning pod for retainers, aligners, and night guards. It runs at about 42,000 Hz to dislodge plaque and biofilm, and select models incorporate UV light to add light‑based disinfection alongside ultrasonic cleaning.

How it works

High‑frequency sound waves create cavitation bubbles that lift debris from every contour—no abrasive scrubbing required. A typical cycle is quick (around five minutes) with auto shut‑off. Use plain room‑temperature water for daily cleans, and optionally add a cleaning tablet on heavy build‑up days.

Who it's for

Anyone who wants a fast, no‑scrub deep clean that won’t create micro‑scratches on clear retainers or guards. It’s also a fit for users who prefer a water‑first, low‑chemical routine but still want odor and film under control.

Price and where to buy

Sold by the manufacturer and through major online retailers. Look for periodic promos or bundles; there’s also a newer “Pro” version—choose based on features you value (UV light, tank size, aesthetics).

Good to know

• Five‑minute clean: Quick cycle with auto shut‑off supports daily use.
• Gentle on plastics: Avoids toothpaste abrasion and clouding.
• Water first: Use cool/lukewarm water; hot water can warp appliances.
• Optional boost: Add an effervescent tablet 1–2× weekly for stains/odor.
• Rinse and dry: Rinse after the cycle and air‑dry before storing.
• Plug‑in device: Keep near an outlet; not battery‑powered.
• Removable appliances only: Not for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Maintain the case, too: Run an empty cycle with water and rinse your storage case regularly.

8. M3 Naturals retainer cleaning tablets

Looking for a budget-friendly tablet that still delivers a solid clean? M3 Naturals is a popular alternative in the retainer cleaner products category, with large-count packs and a fresh mint finish that helps with day‑to‑day odor control. Many kits include a soak container, making it easy to keep your routine consistent at home or on trips.

What it is

Effervescent cleaning tablets for removable dental appliances—clear retainers, aligners, mouthguards, and night guards. They’re often sold in generous counts (with some kits including a soaking cup/strainer) and are mint‑flavored to leave appliances smelling fresher.

How it works

Dissolve a tablet in a cup of lukewarm water and soak your appliance per the label (commonly around 15 minutes). The effervescence helps lift biofilm, surface stains, and odor‑causing bacteria without abrasive brushing. Rinse thoroughly with water before wearing again.

Who it's for

Great if you want a cost‑effective tablet for daily or several‑times‑per‑week use, prefer a fresher mint finish, or need a portable routine that pairs well with an ultrasonic cleaner for deeper weekly cleans.

Price and where to buy

Widely available online through major retailers in multiple pack sizes (including kits with a soak case). Choose the count that fits your cleaning frequency to keep cost per clean low.

Good to know

• Use lukewarm water: Hot water can warp thermoplastic retainers.
• Mind the soak time: Follow the label; avoid over‑soaking.
• Rinse thoroughly: Remove all residue before reinserting.
• Removable appliances only: Not for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Ingredient check: If you’re sensitive (e.g., to persulfates), review the label before use.
• Storage tip: Keep tablets sealed and dry; open individual wraps only when needed.
• Layer your routine: Use tablets for daily freshness and an ultrasonic clean 1–2× weekly for tougher buildup.

9. DentaDenta UV sterilizer (travel-friendly)

If you want a liquid‑free, pocketable way to keep retainers fresher on the move, the DentaDenta UV sterilizer is a smart travel companion. It uses UV‑C light to sanitize in a short cycle, so you’re not hunting for a sink, cup, or tablets between meetings, classes, or flights.

What it is

A compact, battery‑powered UV sterilizer designed for aligners, retainers, dentures, mouth guards, and whitening trays. It doubles as a protective carry case, making it especially useful when you’re away from home.

How it works

UV‑C germicidal light bathes the appliance to sanitize surfaces in about 10 minutes. There’s no water or soaking; just place your clean, dry appliance inside, close the lid, and start the cycle. It targets surface microbes but won’t dissolve tartar or remove embedded stains—plan separate deep cleans for that.

Who it's for

Frequent travelers, commuters, students, gym‑goers—anyone who needs quick, chemical‑free sanitation on the go. It’s also helpful if you’re sensitive to tablet ingredients and want a no‑liquid option between deeper weekly cleans.

Price and where to buy

Commonly available online through major retailers. It’s a single device purchase; factor in the cost of replacement AA batteries over time.

Good to know

• Sanitize vs. deep clean: UV‑C helps sanitize surfaces but won’t prevent staining; pair with a weekly tablet soak or an ultrasonic clean.
• Fast cycle: About 10 minutes per run; keep spare AA batteries if you travel often.
• Start dry: Pat appliances dry before UV—moisture can reduce effectiveness.
• Safety first: Operate with the lid closed; avoid direct exposure to UV light.
• Removable appliances only: Not for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Post‑illness tip: Do a thorough tablet or ultrasonic clean first, then use UV for added sanitation.
• Case care: Wipe the interior regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap; dry fully before use.

10. JS Dental Lab ultrasonic + UVC cleaner

If you want a lab‑level clean at home without scrubbing or harsh chemicals, JS Dental Lab’s ultrasonic + UVC cleaner is a compelling combo device. It pairs ultrasonic cavitation for debris removal with mercury‑free UVC LED light for surface sanitation—an efficient, water‑first approach that fits neatly alongside tablet soaks or as a daily standalone.

What it is

A countertop cleaner from JS Dental Lab that combines an ultrasonic bath with integrated UVC LED light. It’s designed for retainers, aligners, night guards, and mouth guards.

How it works

Ultrasonic waves create cavitation bubbles in room‑temperature water to lift biofilm and residue from hard‑to‑reach contours. The built‑in UVC LED bathes surfaces to sanitize; JS Dental Lab notes its ultrasonic cleansers eliminate 99% of oral bacteria within five minutes, delivering a fast clean without abrasive brushing.

Who it's for

Ideal for users who want a low‑chemical, no‑scrub routine that’s gentle on clear thermoplastics; anyone sensitive to lingering tablet taste; and night‑guard wearers who need reliable odor control. It’s also great if you want a quick post‑illness sanitation step.

Price and where to buy

Available directly from JS Dental Lab online. Check the product page for current pricing and any bundle options with guards or retainers.

Good to know

Start with these tips to protect your appliance and get consistent results.

• Room‑temp water only: Hot water can warp plastic appliances.
• Fast cycle: Target a ~5‑minute clean; follow device instructions.
• Rinse and air‑dry: Rinse your appliance after the cycle and let it dry before storage.
• Sanitize plus de‑stain: UVC sanitizes; add a weekly tablet soak if you see stains or tartar spots.
• Removable appliances only: Not for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Material‑safe: No abrasive toothpaste needed, helping prevent micro‑scratches and clouding.
• Keep it clean: Wipe the tank and lid periodically; dry before storing to avoid residue buildup.

11. EverSmile WhiteFoam aligner and retainer cleaner

Foam cleaners are the quickest way to keep plastic appliances fresh between deeper cleans, and EverSmile WhiteFoam is a popular pick for that grab‑and‑go convenience. As part of your lineup of retainer cleaner products, a foam can cut odor and surface film without abrasive brushing, especially useful during busy days or while traveling.

What it is

A ready‑to‑use foam formulated to freshen and clean removable appliances like clear retainers, aligners, and mouth guards between more intensive soaks or ultrasonic cycles.

How it works

Dispense the foam directly onto your appliance so it can spread into grooves and edges, then follow label directions to brush lightly or let it sit before rinsing. The foaming action helps lift surface debris and neutralize odors without scratching clear plastics.

Who it's for

Good for aligner and retainer wearers who want fast, no‑mix freshness, are sensitive to abrasive toothpaste, or need an easy option at work, school, or on flights. It also pairs well with a weekly tablet soak or ultrasonic clean for stain and tartar control.

Price and where to buy

Commonly available online through major retailers in single bottles and multi‑packs. Choose a size that matches how often you freshen your appliance each day.

Good to know

• Daily refresher: Use foam for quick odor control; keep weekly deep cleans for stain buildup.
• Non‑abrasive care: Foams help avoid micro‑scratches that cloud clear retainers.
• Rinse thoroughly: Always rinse the appliance with cool water before reinserting.
• Mind the heat: Avoid hot water; it can warp thermoplastic materials.
• Removable appliances only: Not intended for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Travel friendly: A compact bottle fits easily in most retainer cases.
• Layer your routine: Foam daily, plus tablets or an ultrasonic device 1–2× weekly.
• Case hygiene: Clean and dry your storage case regularly to prevent odors from coming back.

12. Steraligner aligner cleaning solution

Prefer a ready-to-use liquid over tablets or foam? Steraligner is a pour-and-soak aligner/retainer cleaner that simplifies daily care without abrasive brushing. It fits neatly into a routine with ultrasonic devices or UV cases, helping clear plastics stay fresh between deeper cleans.

What it is

A dedicated liquid cleaning solution formulated for removable appliances like clear retainers, aligners, and mouth guards. It’s designed for quick soaks that target odor and everyday film without scratching thermoplastics.

How it works

Decant the solution into a small soak tray, submerge your appliance per label directions, then rinse thoroughly. The liquid reaches crevices and undercuts that brushing can miss, helping lift residue and freshen plastics without grit or harsh scrubbing.

Who it's for

Good for users who want a no-mix liquid option; aligner wearers who rotate trays frequently; and anyone sensitive to abrasive toothpaste or who dislikes tablet aftertaste. It’s also useful as a daily maintenance step between weekly ultrasonic or tablet deep cleans.

Price and where to buy

Typically sold online in bottles sized for multiple soaks. Check the product page for current pricing, sizes, and availability.

Good to know

• Use cool/lukewarm water to rinse: Hot water can warp clear plastic appliances.
• Rinse thoroughly after soaking: Remove all solution before reinserting.
• Removable appliances only: Not intended for fixed/bonded retainers.
• Don’t mix chemicals: Avoid combining with bleach, alcohol-based mouthwash, or other cleaners.
• Ingredient check: Review the label if you have sensitivities; discontinue use if irritation occurs.
• Layer your routine: Use Steraligner for daily freshness; add a tablet soak or ultrasonic clean 1–2× weekly for stains/tartar.
• Case hygiene matters: Clean and dry your storage case regularly to prevent odors from returning.
• Travel tip: Pre-fill a small, leakproof soak cup for on-the-go cleaning, then discard and rinse well.

Final thoughts

Clear retainers and guards stay fresh when you keep the routine simple: a fast daily clean you’ll actually do, plus a deeper weekly reset. Use a non‑abrasive daily option (foam or a quick tablet/crystal soak), then run a weekly ultrasonic cycle to lift stubborn biofilm. If you’re sensitive, check labels for persulfates. Always use cool or lukewarm water, rinse thoroughly, let appliances air‑dry, and don’t forget to clean the storage case—odor loves to hide there.

Ready to build your set‑and‑forget system? Pair a daily foam with a weekly ultrasonic clean for crystal‑clear plastics and zero funk. For an easy start—and pro‑grade results at home—explore Remi’s custom retainers, Ultrasonic Cleaner Pro, and Cleaning + Whitening Foam at shopremi.com. Your smile (and your mornings) will thank you.