Deciding whether you need one of the best water flossers depends on you, your oral hygiene routine and the condition of your teeth and gums.
According to Dr. Nazia Ahmed, owner of Pure Dental Care, not everybody actually needs one. “If you really want to up your oral hygiene game, adding it as an adjunct is really great,” she said, “[but] I think that if you have good oral hygiene, you’re fine. Regular brushing and flossing, if you don’t have a lot of dental work, will get you there.”
All dentists will probably say string flossing is compulsory, not optional; however, maintaining good oral hygiene can also be a struggle for a lot of people — whether because they wear braces, don’t have great manual dexterity, lack the necessary funds or just hate doing it — and that’s where a good water flosser can come in handy. Of course, there are other reasons why you might want to invest in one I’ll get into later, but if you tick off even just one thing from that list, this guide will help you find the right one.
I tested 10 highly rated models from brands such as Waterpik, Philips and Moon Oral Beauty to find the best water flosser. In the end, I found two I’d recommend to anyone shopping for one. Along with the best electric toothbrush, and maybe a nifty flosser like the Flaus electric flosser, one of them will help you have healthier teeth and gums your dentist will be proud of.
Best water flosser
Delivering strong yet still gentle water jets, this water flosser gives you the best of both corded and cordless worlds. Plus, it’s much more affordable than it looks, especially with its impressive feature set.
Best cordless water flosser
Despite being cordless, this water flosser delivers solid pressure and has a water reservoir with enough capacity for a slightly longer clean. It also includes four nozzles.
You can’t convince me the Waterpik Ion isn’t the best water flosser. After all, there’s a lot to love here and very little not to like. And unlike most other corded water flossers on the market, it offers the best of both worlds — the strong, consistent water pressure and larger water reservoir normally only found on corded models, plus the convenience of not having to be tethered to an outlet found on cordless ones.
The Waterpik Ion counts as a corded water flosser in that it has a handle and a docking station connected via a water hose, which means it can — and does — house a bigger and more powerful motor capable of delivering a strong water pressure that’s also somehow gentler on your gums. But a rechargeable battery in that same docking station provides up to four weeks of cleaning on a full charge, which means, though not travel-friendly, it at least doesn’t have to permanently live near an outlet in order to work.
It’s brilliant, really, and perfect if you have a smaller bathroom and only two outlets (and, if you have the space for it, good for traveling as well).
Corded water flossers usually have more ergonomic handles, but of all the models I tested, this one’s is the easiest to maneuver, effortlessly allowing me to clean harder-to-reach areas, including the palate side.
Adding to the Ion’s ease of use are its simple controls: It has a power button, a pressure settings dial that goes to 10 and an on/off switch on the handle so you aren’t caught off guard with high-pressure jets spraying water on your face or on the bathroom ceiling. While there are no mode options here, I mostly only adjusted the pressure setting, so I didn’t miss them. Meanwhile, unlike the docking stations on other Waterpik models, this one’s is magnetic, meaning you can anchor the handle without much effort.
You’ll also be glad to know the Ion’s 650-milliliter water reservoir will have enough water for three full cleanings. While you shouldn’t let stagnant water sit in the reservoir, this comes in handy when sharing the device — just the base device, not the tip, of course — with the family.
My biggest (and only) gripe here is how loud it gets. Like miniature-jackhammer loud. Overall, though, this is a smaller, more inconsequential negative when considering everything else you get with it — did I mention the six different included tips? — for just $90, but it’s something to consider if you live with people whose morning schedules differ from yours and could be sensitive to noise.
Cordless water flossers aren’t exactly like travel toothbrushes. They may be rechargeable, with some giving you up to 60 days of battery life, but most aren’t exactly thin enough to slip into a pocket of your personal item bag. That’s because they still need a water tank, which essentially doubles their size.
Still, a cordless flosser is a good way to keep up with your oral hygiene when traveling, and for that, the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000 Cordless is the one to get.
I wouldn’t call it the perfect cordless model, but it’s the best one I’ve tested. Its bottom-heavy/tapered neck combo makes it less ergonomic and maneuverable than the Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0, despite that 360-degree nozzle. Its 14-day battery life is also disappointing, especially next to the Quip Rechargeable Cordless Water Flosser’s two-month longevity.
However, it makes up for those by offering really good water pressure. In fact, of the five cordless water flossers I tested, this one delivered the strongest yet gentlest pressure, meaning it’s fast and effective at removing debris between teeth, especially at the level 10 testing, but it’s not harsh on your gumline. This takes precedence, because you’ll want a water flosser that’s effective at cleaning without causing damage. It also boasts a slightly bigger water reservoir, which lets you enjoy a longer clean between refills.
For a cordless model, it’s got great features too, including two flossing modes, three pressure settings and a water tank back hatch for easy refilling. And just like the Waterpik Ion, it’s very easy to clean, thanks in large part to the tip-release button and twist-off water reservoir. (Speaking of tips, it comes with two total: one standard and one orthodontic.)
The Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000 Cordless is one of the pricier cordless models on the market, but its performance alone is worth paying extra for. If you’re looking for a cordless model, this is the best water flosser to get.
I spent three to five days with each water flosser, incorporating it into my regular oral hygiene routine by using it every night (and sometimes in the middle of the day after eating lunch) before brushing, following Ahmed’s instructions. I then evaluated each water flosser using the following criteria:
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Cleaning performance: “Water flossers,” according to Dr. Michael J. Wei, the founder of Manhattan Cosmetic, “with adjustable water pressure settings are best because they allow you to customize the intensity of the water stream to your specific needs and sensitivities.” Still, even with different pressure settings, some water flossers offer a better cleaning performance as they deliver a stronger yet still gentle pressure overall. That’s what I’m looking for, alongside adjustability. The availability of different cleaning modes, such as clean, deep clean and massage, is also a plus.
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Battery life: If a model uses a battery — whether it’s a corded or a cordless model — I checked the battery life to see how long it lasts between charges. Preferably, I’m looking for something that I don’t have to charge as often.
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Water reservoir capacity: “A larger water reservoir will allow you to floss for longer periods without needing to refill it,” Wei said. It’s worth noting though, that cordless models will always have a much smaller water reservoir than the corded ones.
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Ergonomics: Some water flosser handles are trickier to use during cleaning than others, and this is specifically true with cordless models since their actual bodies serve as the handles. During testing, I looked for handles that offer high maneuverability and a good grip.
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Ease of use: You want a water flosser that is intuitive to use, with controls you won’t need a manual to figure out. At the same time, you also want a water flosser that makes it so that you’re not making a lot of mess — you’re dealing with high-pressure water jets after all.
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Portability and size: Wei said that if you want a water flosser to bring with you on trips, make sure that you’re getting “a compact and lightweight model that is easy to pack and transport.” But even if you want a model specifically for home use, you’ll still want something that won’t take up too much space on your counter — even if you have a massive bathroom with an enormous counter.
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Cleaning and maintenance: Ahmed said that at the very least, give the tip a rinse, take the water flosser apart and let the parts air dry after every use. This can be annoying if you’re very busy, especially at first when you’re still getting used to the routine. So you want a water flosser that’s easy to clean and maintain. Luckily, most have “removable parts that can make the cleaning process more convenient,” said Wei.
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Price: Water flossers are not cheap dental health devices, unlike toothbrushes. However, it was important to compare each model’s price tag against its performance, design, build and features to gauge if it’s worth buying. I also compared it against the competition to see if it was the better investment.
Since many people don’t own a water flosser and are unfamiliar with the technology, here’s an explainer on the dental care device, how to use it and what to look for when you’re buying one.
A water flosser, according to Dr. Leilani Myers, cosmetic and general dentist at Smile Design Manhattan, “is especially effective at flushing out food particles and debris from areas your toothbrush can’t reach.”
However, as Ahmed said, it’s not an absolute necessity for some people. “People who really benefit from a water flosser would be those with braces. It’s going to help keep your teeth clean underneath [the brackets],” she said. “Anyone who doesn’t have great manual dexterity, older patients, same thing. If you have gum issues and have bone loss, and your dentist is saying that just your regular cleanings are not cutting it … if you have a history of deep cleanings and scalings, a water flosser is great for you.”
A water flosser might look intimidating if you haven’t used it before, but the process is actually simple. It just takes some getting used to having jets of water splashing around in your mouth. Before you use one, here are some very useful tips you should follow:
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Water floss first. While it’s important to follow the right order of oral hygiene routine, Ahmed also recommended water flossing first to make sure that you’re actually doing it: “Floss first before brushing because you have to get the hard part out of the way. Most everyone is going to brush their teeth but most everyone after brushing their teeth doesn’t floss.”
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Don’t use cold water. Ahmed, Myers and Wei all agreed that warmer or lukewarm water is better as it’s gentler on your gums and teeth.
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Use a dental rinse. Ahmed also recommended using a Hypochlorous Dental Rinse with your water flosser: “It’s a great disinfectant. It helps neutralize your mouth and reduce the biofilm and bacteria in your mouth.”
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There are ways to keep splashing to a minimum. “Lean over the sink and close your lips slightly to avoid splashing,” said Myers. “Turn it on and aim the tip at the gumline, moving slowly tooth by tooth.”
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One side to the other. Ahmed recommended starting from the upper right, slowly and gently following your gums’ scalloping and going all the way to the left then doing the same thing on the palate side. When you’re done, do the same for your lower set.
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Do it at an angle. “Don’t go parallel with the teeth; don’t shoot down into the gums,” said Ahmed. “You don’t want to jam it into the pockets and shoot. You want to do a 90-degree or a 45-degree angle. This will help clean out the pockets a little better.”
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Work your way up. It’s also a good idea, according to Myers, to start with the lowest pressure setting and gradually increase to the highest that’s most comfortable for you if you’re new to water flossing.
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Give it time. Based on my own experience, a water flosser can feel weird and very messy the first few times you use it. And it may take you some time to get the technique down. However, trust me, eventually you will figure out how to use it without being messy — just keep using it.
Water flossers come with at least one tip, usually the standard jet tip. However, a few come with two or more. Myers said that you’ll get a lot more out of yours by switching tips, depending on your needs. However, each type of tip is meant for specific uses. Wei broke it down below so you know exactly what tip to use for different situations.
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Standard jet tip: This tip is the most used and is ideal for everyday general flossing.
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Orthodontic tip: This tip is designed with a brush and a jet stream, and is suitable for cleaning around braces, retainers and the like.
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Plaque seeker tip: This tip has a brush and three tufts of bristles to help remove stubborn plaque buildup around dental restorations, crowns, bridges, and other dental work.
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Tongue cleaner tip: This tip is specifically designed to clean the surface of the tongue.
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Pikpocket tip: This tip is angled and designed with a soft rubber tip to gently deliver antimicrobial solution deep into periodontal pockets to treat gum disease.
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Toothbrush tip: Some water flossers offer a toothbrush tip that combines brushing and flossing in one attachment for a comprehensive clean.
I know it’s easier to only clean something when it starts to look a little gnarly, but you really shouldn’t take that risk with dental care devices like water flossers. “At the end of the day, you have bacteria in your mouth,” said Ahmen. “Then there’s all the calcium, minerals, etc that are in tap water, and you’ll get a build-up.”
What’s the best practice when cleaning a water flosser? Do it after every use. Trust me, quick daily cleanings won’t take up too much of your time. “Right after I use it, I remove the head, and if I see anything on the base, I clean it out. I also just take it apart because it just airs, and nothing is sitting there and growing,” said Ahmed.
Myers recommended regularly cleaning the inside by running white vinegar through it at least once a week. However, if you truly are busy and don’t have much time, Ahmed said that this type of deep cleaning can also be done about once a month. Just make sure to perform a water rinse cycle after.
Finally, Myers recommended replacing the tip every three to six months, like you would a toothbrush head.
If you can’t decide which water flosser is best for you or what you’ll need it for, it might be a good idea to start with one that offers a range in pressure settings, modes and tips. According to Ahmed, “If you don’t know why you need a water flosser and what works for you, getting something that has a range will be a good baseline.”
You have a couple of other things to think about, according to Wei.
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Cordless versus corded: Corded models usually have a bit more power and come with a larger water reservoir, while cordless ones offer more flexibility and convenience, being compact enough to travel. On the downside, corded models take up more space while cordless ones need frequent charging and refilling. However, one type isn’t necessarily better than the other — the type that suits you best is based on your needs and lifestyle.
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Water flossing technology: “I recommend water flossers that utilize advanced technology (pulsating water streams or sonic vibrations) since these features enhance the cleaning effectiveness and remove plaque better,” said Wei.
This runner-up to the overall winner delivers strong water pressure, but the harsher jets and noisy operation make it a less desirable option.
When it comes to power and features, the Waterpik Aquarius is probably the closest thing to a runner-up in my testing pool … at least in the corded category. Just like the Waterpik Ion, it’s a feature-rich model.
In fact, it has even more features than the Ion, which is likely why it’s pricier. It comes with 10 pressure settings, two cleaning modes, seven included tips and a hinged lid that’s attached to the docking station (that’s one less movable part you have to deal with.)
In addition, its handle is thin, very maneuverable and equipped with a pause switch, while its form is fairly compact, so it won’t take up too much space on your bathroom counter.
However, it has two fatal flaws: The flow, while powerful, is much harsher, and its motor is very noisy. Considering the Ion delivers a gentler yet equally strong flow for $10 less, the Waterpik Aquarius is harder to recommend.
Quiter and gentler than the Aquarius, this water flosser from Philips provides effective cleaning. However, it’s weird that there’s not much difference between the intensities.
The Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 5000 was a pleasure to use. While the similarly priced Waterpik Aquarius has a harsh flow that low-key hurt my mouth, this one went for gentle while still keeping the pressure powerful enough to remove debris. And while the Aquarius is obnoxiously loud, this water flosser isn’t very noisy.
The handle is very easy to maneuver, and it attaches to the docking station effortlessly thanks to its magnetic design. And it could be a better choice for some users than the slightly cheaper Waterpik Ion because, alongside its 10 pressure settings, it also offers two flossing modes.
However, the Ion includes several more tips, features a rechargeable battery and a larger water reservoir, and delivers stronger water pressure overall. The Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 5000 is a great water flosser; unfortunately, the Ion is just a little better.
This all-in-one water flossing and brushing set has potential, but its water pressure is not as strong as the Philips Sonicare 5000, and it’s not as quiet. It’s pretty pricey, too
I’m obviously not privy to how the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 7000 was designed and made, but seeing as it’s very similar to the 5000 and just comes with an electric toothbrush, it makes sense that the two models’ water flossing capabilities should be on par. Sadly, that doesn’t seem to be the case.
Don’t get me wrong; this one definitely has better features with four flossing modes (rather than just two), a bigger water reservoir and a water tank lid that’s attached so it’s one less moving part to deal with. It even comes with its own app so that you can, if you’d like, track your oral health progress.
However, you’re also paying a premium for all those extras — specifically $150 more than the 5000. That seems like a lot, especially since the water pressure on this isn’t as good as the 5000’s and the motor is also louder. If you want a Philips water flosser at home, I’d recommend getting the 5000 model and buying an electric toothbrush separately. It’s not that the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 7000 is bad; it’s just that there are other better-value flossers to choose from.
Loud with harsh jets coming out of it, the Waterpik is, weirdly enough, not as powerful as its less-expensive rivals.
The Waterpik Sensonic Complete Care unfortunately suffers from the same issue as the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 7000 — for some bizarre reason, its water pressure isn’t as powerful as that of the less expensive models.
Comparing it to my $90 winner, the Waterpik Ion Water Flosser specifically, this one may have the same pressure settings, the same simpler control “panel,” the magnetic docking station and an almost-identical handle. It even comes with a wide selection of tips. However, when it comes to water pressure, the Ion is clearly the better choice. Plus, its water reservoir is smaller and its power button just isn’t satisfying to press.
The Waterpik Sensonic Complete Care is $50 cheaper than the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 7000 when comparing the water-flosser-and-toothbrush combos. However, like I said about the 7000, you’re still better off getting the Ion and an electric toothbrush separately.
For quick cleanings in the middle of the day when you’re at work or just away from home, this water flosser is pocket-sized and easy to use.
If you’re looking for a travel water flosser that won’t take up space in your luggage, the Oclean A10 AirPump Water Flosser is a great alternative to my best cordless water flosser pick. This pocket-sized option is, therefore, not just great for traveling. It’s also perfect if you’re looking to do a quick floss after lunch at work or if you’re at a work event.
Being tiny, especially next to the others, its water reservoir is also small, but somehow, there’s still enough water in there for a full clean. That’s likely because instead of a steady stream or longer bursts, the device lets out quick, short jets, which are good enough for a speedy clean when you don’t have access to your full dental care kit at home.
There are other reasons why I’ll be keeping this water flosser in my purse at all times. Its 40-day battery life means I don’t have to charge it that often. Its non-slip finish and simple, one-button operation make using it easy and intuitive. And its mold-resistant body is a nice extra you won’t find on other models.
The Oclean A10 AirPump Water Flosser is a hefty purchase for something so small, but if you want a tiny water flosser to always have with you wherever you go, it’s a great investment.
Great water pressure, a two-month battery life and a slew of included tips make this water flosser from Moon a good-value option. Its ergonomics aren’t as good, however.
The Moon Water Flosser was my first foray into the world of water flossing, and it was a great introduction. This cordless model offers two different cleaning modes — gentle and deep clean — to avoid scaring off new adopters. When it comes to cleaning, I found it very effective, thanks in large part to its great water pressure that’s not too harsh on your gums.
It boasts a good feature set as well, with a two-month battery life and a set of four tips, including a tongue scraper, which isn’t as common on these water flossers as you would think. That’s not too shabby for a $70 water flosser.
However, there are two things that put me off as well. First is the body itself: It’s a little on the thick side and perfectly straight, with no curves that allow your hand to fit in nicely and get a good grip. It’s not hard to maneuver per se, just not the best. Then there’s the one button, which makes you cycle through the deep clean mode if you’re on gentle just to turn it off. So overall, the ergonomics on this are nearly nonexistent.
This water flosser from Waterpik has all the right elements, and its narrow neck with a non-slip back offers a better hold. I just wish it delivered a stronger water pressure.
There are several things I love about the Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0. It offers three different modes that you can easily cycle through, thanks to a dedicated mode button. Its water reservoir looks deceptively cheap but can carry enough water for a full clean. It comes with a travel bag and a travel case for all your tips. And unlike the Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000 Cordless’ 14-day battery life, this one will last you a full month on a full charge.
The best part about it is the ergonomics. The way its neck narrows and features a non-slip back ensures you get a better hold for maneuverability. It’s just as bottom-heavy as the 3000 Cordless, since that water reservoir is at the bottom, but it’s much easier to handle, especially when you’re trying to get to harder-to-reach spots.
Sadly, when it comes to cleaning performance, it’s not the best. The Waterpik Cordless Advanced 2.0 delivers good water pressure, sure. However, the 3000 Cordless does it better, saving you time and energy, which is especially important when you’re the type to sometimes bail on your dental care routine because you’re feeling lazy.
This Quip water flosser has a really long battery life and a very affordable price. However, its weaker water pressure, smaller water tank and big, rounded body make it a less compelling choice.
I love Quip’s toothbrush, so I was excited to test the brand’s water flosser. And just like the toothbrush, it’s a very accessible model with easy-to-press controls and a long battery life (more specifically, this one will last you two full months on a full charge).
However, as much as I wanted to like this one, it falls short in several aspects. There’s the body, which I think is too thick for smaller hands, making it harder to change positions and get to harder-to-reach areas. Then there’s the water reservoir, with capacity that’s just not enough for a full clean. And the water pressure is just too low, even when you’re on deep clean mode.
Adding insult to injury is its charging system. Quip warns users that both the magnetic charging cable and the charging port should be completely dry before charging, and that’s true when the port is completely exposed, but the unit is likely to live next to the sink and, well, it’s a water flosser.
The following FAQs were answered by Dr. Nazia Ahmed, Dr. Leilani Myers and Dr. Michael J. Wei.
Is using a water flosser every day enough for a thorough clean?
According to Myers, using a water flosser once a day is a great addition to your oral care routine. However, “it should complement — not replace — brushing and regular dental checkups.”
Ahmed agreed. “Water flossers are great devices to maintain your oral health, but not to substitute baseline care,” she said. “Can you eliminate string flossing completely? No. Suppose you have a driveway and have lots of leaves on it. You can probably hose off 90% of the leaves but sometimes, they stick to the driveway, and you just have to take the broom out and sweep them away.”
Are water flossers more effective than string flossers?
The simple answer is no.
According to Ahmed, “There’s a simple act [that happens] when you’re flossing, and that’s separation of the teeth, which allows teeth to have very slight movement, and that introduces oxygen, which is actually helpful. As you’re flossing, you’re separating the teeth ever so slightly, so [you’re removing] any biofilm, any bacteria hidden between the teeth.”
Both have their strengths, of course. “Water flossers use a stream of water to clean between teeth and along the gumline, making them great for people with braces, dental implants or sensitive gums,” said Wei. However, string flossers are still “better for cleaning hard-to-reach areas between teeth.”
Can a water flosser be effective on stubborn plaque?
No. Water flossers aren’t like power washers.
Myers said that while water flossers are great for preventing plaque buildup, “they’re not designed to remove hardened plaque (tartar). For that, you’ll need a professional dental cleaning. And you should be getting one at least every six months, or more if recommended by your dentist.”
For this article, we consulted the following experts for their professional insights.
CNN Underscored editors thoroughly test all the products we cover and provide full transparency about how we test them. We have an experienced team of writers and editors with many years of testing experience, ensuring each article is carefully edited and each product is properly vetted. We talk to top experts when it makes sense to ensure we are testing each product accurately and discussing each item’s pros and cons.
Testing writer Michelle Rae Uy boasts years of experience covering home products and appliances and writing product reviews. She covered home and kitchen appliances for various publications before joining CNN Underscored. She wrote our best space heaters and best meal-prepping tools guides and co-wrote our best espresso machines article.
