Waterpik water flosser, water jug and spoonWaterpik water flosser, water jug and spoon

How to Clean a Waterpik® Water Flosser

In 5 Easy Steps


Mineral deposits and other materials can collect in your Water Flosser, causing it to lose pressure and effectiveness.

Here are 5 steps for simple cleaning with water, vinegar, and your dishwasher to keep your Water Flosser performing at its best. Complete this process every 1-3 months to ensure optimal performance.

  • Clean the outside of the unit
  • Clean the water reservoir
  • Clean the internal parts
  • Clean the handle (countertop models)
  • Clean the flosser tip

Watch our How to Clean Video


Step 1: Clean the Outside of the Unit

Clean the outside of the product when necessary by using a soft cloth and mild non-abrasive cleanser.

Step 2: Clean the Water Reservoir

  • Remove the water reservoir from the unit. (Refer to your product manual if you need assistance).
  • If using a countertop model that contains a small black reservoir valve, remove the valve by pushing on it from the bottom. Clean the valve by massaging it under warm water for 30-45 seconds and set aside.
  • Place the reservoir in the top rack of your dishwasher for cleaning. We recommend air drying instead of a heated dry cycle.
  • If you removed a valve, place it back in the reservoir before use. (Dome side up, push in place so the four prongs are visible on the bottom of the reservoir.)
  • Reservoirs can also be hand washed with warm soapy water.
Water flosser reservoir in dishwasherWater flosser reservoir in dishwasher
The reservoir is top-rack dishwasher safe.
  • Based on your model, mix 1-2 tablespoons of white vinegar with 16 ounces of warm water.
  • Run this solution through the unit until the reservoir is empty.
  • Rinse by repeating with a full reservoir of clean warm water.
Spoon filling up water flosser reservoirSpoon filling up water flosser reservoir
Mix white vinegar with a full reservoir of warm water and run the solution through the unit.

Step 3: Clean the Internal Parts

  • Remove the tip from the unit using the eject button.
  • Soak the Water Flosser handle in a mixture of 2 parts water, 1 part white vinegar for 5-7 minutes.
  • Rinse the handle under warm water.
  • Clean the Water Flosser tip separately using step #5.
Waterpik handle in glass of waterWaterpik handle in glass of water
Soak the handle of countertop units in vinegar/water mixture for 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove the tip from the unit using the eject button.
  • Soak the Water Flosser tip in a container of 2 parts water, 1 part hydrogen peroxide or white vinegar for 5 minutes.
  • Rinse the tip under warm water.
  • For maximum effectiveness over time, we recommend replacing Water Flosser tips every 3-6 months. The tips can become clogged and/or affected by mineral deposits.Based on your model, mix 1-2 tablespoons of white vinegar with 16 ounces of warm water.
Water flosser tip in a glass of cleaning solutionWater flosser tip in a glass of cleaning solution
Soak the flosser tip in vinegar/water mixture for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Clean the Handle (Countertop Models)

Step 5: Clean the Flosser Tip

It's easy to keep your Waterpik® Water Flosser clean so you continue to get the maximum benefit for your oral health.

If you have other product questions, check out our Product Support and Product Manuals.