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How to clean the dental irrigator

Clean the reservoir of the oral irrigator with soap and water, or vinegar

The first piece you should start with is the water tank . Because it’s in constant contact with tap water, limescale will build up on the walls. And if you haven’t dried it properly after each use, layers of bacteria will form as well.

To clean it, follow these steps:

  1. Using soap , thoroughly clean the tank .
  2. Pour vinegar , and let it act for about 15 minutes.
  3. After emptying the tank, wash it again with soap and water , or in the dishwasher.
  4. Before putting it back into the irrigator, make sure to dry it thoroughly.

How to clean the internal parts of the dental irrigator with vinegar or hydrogen peroxide

Tap water not only contains lime, but also mineral microorganisms that adhere to the walls of the filters and irrigator tubes, obstructing the flow of water.

To remove these remains, you must follow these steps:

  1. Fill the reservoir with hot water and 2-4 tablespoons of vinegar (depending on whether it is a cordless or tabletop irrigator) or hydrogen peroxide (baking soda). Stir to mix well.
  2. Activate the irrigator and shoot the jet until half of the tank has been emptied .
  3. Wait 20 minutes for the vinegar that has passed through the filters to act.
  4. Repeat the process until the tank is completely emptied .
  5. Finally, repeat the process , this time only with hot water .

How to clean dental irrigator nozzles with hot water or vinegar

As with irrigator filters, the nozzles accumulate water residue inside, but they can be easily cleaned.

How to clean the dental irrigator.
  1. Fill a container with hot water and add two tablespoons of vinegar .
  2. Immerse the nozzles inside for 10 minutes .
  3. After drying them well, follow the steps in the previous point to clean both the inside of the irrigator and any residue left in the nozzles. 

How to clean the handle of the dental irrigator with a damp cloth or alcohol

Being in constant contact with your hands, and splashes of water, the handle can become contaminated with bacteria, so it must be cleaned regularly. And no, just water will not suffice:

  1. Clean the handle with soap and water .
  2. Next, add a few drops of alcohol to a damp cloth and wipe it again.
  3. To clean the interior, soak it in a container with water and four tablespoons of vinegar for 10 minutes.
  4. Dry it with a dry cloth.