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How to clean a water flosser

Updated September 18, 2026

Waterpik says to clean its flossers once a month with water, white vinegar and your dishwasher. Philips says to clean its Power Flosser once a week. Both methods come down to three parts: the outside and tip, the tank, and a vinegar rinse run through the inside.

How often, per the makers

Waterpik's three steps

1. Outside and tip. Wipe the unit with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive cleanser. Soak the tip, and the handle on countertop models, in 1 part vinegar and 2 parts water for 5 minutes.
2. Tank. Take the tank off. If it has a black valve, push it out from underneath and rub it under warm water for 30 to 45 seconds. Wash the tank in the top rack of the dishwasher with heated dry off, or by hand with warm soapy water. A small bottle brush helps on cordless tanks. Put the valve back dome side up.
3. Inside. Fill the tank with 1 part white vinegar and 2 parts warm water and run it through. Then run a full tank of clean warm water.

Philips' steps for the cordless Power Flosser

1. Unplug it first. Philips says not to clean it with the charging cord and adapter attached, and to close the charging port cover.
2. Tank. Twist it off, then hand wash with warm water and mild soap, or use the top rack of the dishwasher.
3. Handle. Wipe with a soft cloth and mild soap.
4. Nozzle. Rinse it under warm water regularly. Every few months, or if it clogs, soak it for 5 minutes in 2 parts water and 1 part vinegar, then rinse.
5. Inside. Fill the tank with warm water and 1 to 2 tablespoons of white vinegar. Point the nozzle at the sink, run it until the tank is empty, then repeat with plain warm water.

The Philips page lists the model numbers it applies to, so check yours there.

Why it matters

Waterpik says mineral deposits and other material can build up over time and cause a loss of pressure. If your flosser feels weaker than it used to, clean it before you decide it is broken.

Which picks are easiest to clean

• Philips Power Flosser 3000: fills from the top or a side port, and Philips gives step-by-step cleaning. The catch: its weekly schedule is more often than Waterpik's.
• Waterpik Aquarius: the 651 ml tank lifts off for the dishwasher. The catch: it is the largest unit here, so there is more to wipe down.

For the COSLUS C20, follow the manual in the box. We did not find a COSLUS cleaning page today.

Compare all five picks in the shortlist, or check any listing in the run time calculator.

Check with your dentist. This page is general information, not dental advice. Your dentist or hygienist knows your mouth and your dental work, so ask them which tip, pressure and routine suit you before you start.