Best Mouthwashes of 2025

Elisa Drew Avatar
Elisa Drew
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Mouthwashes are a popular addition to many people's daily oral hygiene routine. They are designed to freshen breath, kill bacteria, and promote healthy gums. Mouthwashes come in a variety of flavors and strengths, from mild to strong. Some are alcohol-free, making them a great option for those with sensitive teeth or gums. Mouthwashes can also be used to help prevent cavities and reduce plaque buildup. With so many options available, it's easy to find a mouthwash that fits your specific needs and preferences.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1 L (Pack of 2) Cover#TOP 1
Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1 L (Pack of 2)
ftb score rating icon9.9
Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1.5% Hydrogen Peroxide, Mild Mint - 500ml Cover#TOP 2
Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1.5% Hydrogen Peroxide, Mild Mint - 500ml
ftb score rating icon9.8
TheraBreath Icy Mint Oral Rinse for Fresh Breath, 16 fl oz (Pack of 2) Cover#TOP 3
TheraBreath Icy Mint Oral Rinse for Fresh Breath, 16 fl oz (Pack of 2)
ftb score rating icon9.6

Top 10 Mouthwashes

Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1 L (Pack of 2)

312547780292
Blue
Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1 L (Pack of 2) Cover
Listerine Cool Mint Mouthwash, Kills 99.9% of Germs That Cause Bad Breath, Plaque and Gingivitis, Antiseptic, Cool Mint Flavor, 1 L, 2 Pack
ftb score rating icon9.9
FTB Score

Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash is a germ-killing mouthwash for bad breath that comes in a pack of two 1-liter bottles. It kills 99.9% of germs that cause bad breath, plaque, and gingivitis, giving you fresh breath and germ protection. This ADA-accepted antiseptic mouthwash reduces plaque by up to 52% more than brushing and flossing alone and reduces gingivitis by 21% more. With approximately 2 months of supply, use it twice daily for 30 seconds to achieve maximum results and enjoy a refreshing and clean feeling.

What We Like
Alcohol-free formula
Gentle on gums
Effective breath freshening
Hydrating for dry mouth
Good price for quantity
What We Don't Like
Less intense than original

Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1.5% Hydrogen Peroxide, Mild Mint - 500ml

10035000320299
Blue
Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1.5% Hydrogen Peroxide, Mild Mint - 500ml Cover
Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash and Mouth Sore Rinse, 1.5% Hydrogen Peroxide, Mild Mint - 500ml, 16.9 Fluid Ounces
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash is a mouth rinse that helps cleanse and promote healing of minor oral wounds, such as oral sores and irritations. Its oxygenating action removes debris and soothes minor gum inflammation from dental procedures, dentures, and orthodontic appliances. With a mild mint flavor, this alcohol-free formula is perfect for those with sensitive mouths.

What We Like
Effective relief for mouth sores
Gentle, alcohol-free formula
Mild, refreshing mint flavor
Convenient size for daily use
Trusted brand quality
What We Don't Like
Smaller than expected size

TheraBreath Icy Mint Oral Rinse for Fresh Breath, 16 fl oz (Pack of 2)

TheraBreath Icy Mint Oral Rinse for Fresh Breath, 16 fl oz (Pack of 2) Cover
TheraBreath Fresh Breath Mouthwash, Icy Mint Flavor, Alcohol-Free, 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 2)
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

TheraBreath Icy Mint Oral Rinse is a dentist-formulated mouthwash that fights sulfur-producing bacteria, eliminating bad breath odors and restoring confidence for up to 24 hours. Its clinically-proven oxygenating ingredients can stop sour, bitter, and metallic tastes in your mouth. TheraBreath offers a solution-oriented line of toothpastes, mouthwashes, breath sprays, tonsil stone kits, pet care products, and more that can support your whole family's oral hygiene needs. TheraBreath's professional-grade products are designed to address halitosis, cavity prevention, gum disease, and more. Founded by dentist Dr. Harold Katz in 1994, TheraBreath continues to innovate and deliver the highest-quality oral care products for you and your family.

What We Like
Alcohol-free formula
Long-lasting freshness
Gentle on mouth
Effective against bad breath
Quality ingredients
What We Don't Like
Requires proper oral hygiene

ACT Restoring Zero Alcohol Fluoride Mouthwash

041167097830
Green
ACT Restoring Zero Alcohol Fluoride Mouthwash Cover
ACT Restoring Zero Alcohol Fluoride Mouthwash 33.8 fl. oz. Strengthens Tooth Enamel, Mint Burst
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

ACT Restoring Zero Alcohol Fluoride Mouthwash is a 33.8 fl. oz. bottle of alcohol-free mouthwash, designed to give 4 benefits in 1. It strengthens tooth enamel, remineralizes soft spots, helps prevent tooth decay, and freshens breath. Anticavity rinses like ACT Restoring Mouthwash can help reduce cavities up to 70% more than brushing with a fluoride toothpaste alone. It is the dentist recommended fluoride brand.

What We Like
Alcohol-free formula
Strengthens tooth enamel
Refreshing mint flavor
Gentle on sensitive gums
Large bottle size
What We Don't Like
Possible mild burning sensation
#TOP 5

TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse

Healthy Gums
TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse Cover
TheraBreath Healthy Gums Mouthwash Clean Mint, Antigingivitis, Dentist Formulated, 16 Fl Oz (2-Pack)
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse is an effective solution to fight bacteria and common symptoms of gum disease. This periodontist-formulated mouthwash contains CPC and xylitol to neutralize the decay process and kill germs linked to gum disease, gingivitis, plaque and tartar buildup, and bad breath. The 24-hour oral rinse is alcohol-free, gentle on sensitive gums, and certified vegan, kosher, and gluten-free. It is also exceptional for treating gum-related problems associated with menopause, pregnancy, and other medical conditions.

What We Like
Effective gum health improvement
Fresh breath sensation
Gentle on gums
Variety of flavors available
Quick noticeable results
What We Don't Like
Burns slightly for some users
Smaller bottle size options
#TOP 6

Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash

P_4440
Blue
Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash Cover
Crest Pro-Health Advanced Mouthwash, Alcohol Free, Multi-Protection, Fresh Mint, 1 L (33.8 fl oz), Pack of 2, Crest Mouthwash, Mouthwash Alcohol Free, Flouride Mouthwash
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash is a multi-protection mouthwash that offers a range of benefits to improve your oral health. This alcohol-free mouthwash helps prevent cavities, kills bad breath germs, strengthens enamel, and cleans teeth and gums. By using this mouthwash regularly, you can reduce the risk of cavities and maintain fresh breath. The powerful formula kills the germs that cause bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling clean and refreshed. It also strengthens your enamel, which helps protect your teeth against acid attacks. Additionally, this mouthwash effectively cleans your teeth and gums, removing plaque and promoting overall oral hygiene. With Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash, you can enjoy a healthier mouth and a brighter smile.

What We Like
Effective antibacterial protection
Alcohol-free formulation
Gentle on sensitive mouths
Refreshing mint flavor
Convenient for quick use
What We Don't Like
Heavy plastic packaging
#TOP 7

Listerine Freshburst Antiseptic Mouthwash, Spearmint, 1 L, Pack of 2

Green
Listerine Freshburst Antiseptic Mouthwash, Spearmint, 1 L, Pack of 2 Cover
Listerine Freshburst Antiseptic Mouthwash for Bad Breath, Kills 99.9% of Bad Breath Germs & Fights Plaque & Gingivitis, ADA Accepted Mouthwash, Spearmint, Convenience Pack, 1 L, 2 Pack
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

Get rid of bad breath and keep your mouth clean with Listerine Freshburst Antiseptic Mouthwash. This 2 pack of 1-liter bottles kills 99.9% of germs that cause plaque, gingivitis and bad breath. It's clinically shown to reduce 52% more plaque and 21% more gingivitis than brushing and flossing alone. The Freshburst spearmint flavor of this mouthwash leaves your mouth fresh and clean. It's ADA-accepted for fighting, preventing, and reducing plaque and gingivitis. Use it twice a day, both morning and night for 24-hour germ protection.

What We Like
Fresh clean feeling
Effective bad breath solution
Fast acting and easy to use
Long-lasting freshness
What We Don't Like
Delivery took longer than expected
#TOP 8

Listerine Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash

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Standard
Listerine Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash Cover
Listerine Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash, 6 Benefits in 1 Oral Rinse Helps Kill 99% of Bad Breath Germs, Prevents Cavities, Strengthens Teeth, ADA-Accepted, Fresh Mint, 1 L
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

Listerine Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash in fresh mint flavor is a 1-liter family size mouthwash that offers six-in-one benefits to improve oral health. It helps to kill germs that cause bad breath, strengthen teeth, help prevent cavities, restore enamel, clean your mouth and freshen breath. This fluoride-rich mouthwash strengthens teeth 50% more than brushing alone, protects your mouth day and night, and prevents tooth decay. Accepted by the American Dental Association's (ADA) Seal of Acceptance Program.

What We Like
Effective anti-cavity protection
Restores enamel for sensitivity relief
Minty flavor for fresh breath
Cost-effective large pack options
Comprehensive oral health benefits
What We Don't Like
May cause intense burning sensation
Possible quality control issues
#TOP 9

TheraBreath Oral Rinse, Mild Mint, 16oz (Pack of 2)

697029284377
Not Available
TheraBreath Oral Rinse, Mild Mint, 16oz (Pack of 2) Cover
TheraBreath Fresh Breath Mouthwash, Mild Mint Flavor, Alcohol-Free, 16 Fl Oz (2-Pack)
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

TheraBreath Oral Rinse is a dentist-formulated mouthwash that fights bad breath and restores your confidence. With clinically-proven ingredients, it targets sulfur-producing bacteria to stop sour, bitter, and metallic tastes in your mouth. The premium oral care line of TheraBreath includes toothpastes, breath sprays, and pet care products to help you and your family maintain good oral hygiene. The professional-grade products are designed to address halitosis, cavity prevention, gum disease, and more. Trust the quality of TheraBreath, started in 1994 by dentist Dr. Harold Katz, for your oral care needs.

What We Like
All-day fresh breath
Mild taste, no burning
Good for sensitive mouths
Value for money
Effective for dry mouth
What We Don't Like
Pricey compared to others
Weird initial taste
#TOP 10

Listerine Zero Alcohol Mouthwash

PPAX1248850
Cool Mint
Listerine Zero Alcohol Mouthwash Cover
Listerine Zero Alcohol Mouthwash, Alcohol-Free Oral Rinse to Kill 99% of Germs That Cause Bad Breath for Fresh Breath & Clean Mouth, Less Intense Taste, Cool Mint Flavor, 1 L (Pack of 1)
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

Get fresher and cleaner breath with Listerine Zero Alcohol Mouthwash. This 1 L bottle of Cool Mint flavor mouthwash kills 99.9% of bad breath germs without the overpowering taste of alcohol. Its less intense oral care formula leaves your mouth feeling clean and refreshed after use. With a four-week supply, use twice a day for maximum results and protection from bad breath germs.

What We Like
Alcohol-free formula
Gentle on gums
Effective breath freshening
Hydrating mouthfeel
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Milder than traditional version
Less intense flavor
Best Mouthwashes Feature Image

Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Mouthwash

Active Ingredients

Check the label for the active ingredients in the mouthwash. Look for ingredients like fluoride, which helps prevent tooth decay, or essential oils like menthol or eucalyptol, which provide antibacterial properties. Different mouthwashes target specific oral issues, so choose one that suits your needs, such as fighting bad breath or reducing plaque buildup.

Alcohol Content

Consider the alcohol content in the mouthwash. While alcohol-based mouthwashes can effectively kill bacteria, they may cause dryness or irritation for some individuals. If you have sensitive gums or dry mouth, opt for an alcohol-free mouthwash.

ADA Seal of Approval

Look for mouthwashes that have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. This seal ensures that the product has undergone rigorous testing and meets the ADA's standards for safety and effectiveness.

Flavor and Taste

Choose a mouthwash with a flavor that you enjoy. This will make your oral care routine more pleasant and encourage regular use. Popular flavors include mint, citrus, and cinnamon, but there are also unflavored options available.

Special Considerations

If you have specific oral health concerns, such as gum disease or sensitive teeth, look for mouthwashes designed to address those issues. Some mouthwashes target tartar control, enamel strengthening, or provide extra protection for sensitive gums. Consult with your dentist for personalized recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is using mouthwash everyday good?

Using mouthwash every day may not be ideal as some mouthwashes contain harsh ingredients that can be harmful if used excessively. Alcohol-containing mouthwashes, in particular, can lead to dryness in the mouth and an increased risk of cavities. It is generally recommended to use mouthwash less than twice a day to avoid potential negative effects.

2. What does mouthwash do for you?

Mouthwash serves several purposes, including freshening bad breath, reducing plaque and gingivitis, fighting tooth decay, and preventing cavities. Some mouthwashes with fluoride can even help remineralize teeth. Using mouthwash can significantly improve your oral health and leave you with a refreshing feeling after rinsing.

3. Is it OK to swallow saliva after using mouthwash?

It is generally fine to swallow your saliva after using mouthwash, as long as you have spat out most of the product. However, it is advisable to rinse with water afterward, especially if you have used a particularly strong mouthwash.

4. Do you rinse after using mouthwash?

Dentists usually recommend not rinsing your mouth with water immediately after using mouthwash. The mouthwash continues to work even after spitting it out, so rinsing with water dilutes the cleaning and strengthening benefits. It is best to wait for some time before rinsing with water.

5. When should you not use mouthwash?

Avoid using mouthwash immediately after brushing your teeth, as it can wash away the concentrated fluoride from the toothpaste on your teeth. It is best to use mouthwash at a separate time from brushing to maximize its benefits.

6. How often should you use mouthwash?

Using mouthwash up to twice a day is generally advised. Using mouthwash more frequently, especially if it is alcohol-based, can potentially harm the soft tissues of the mouth and cause dryness. Limiting use to twice a day helps maintain a balance between the benefits and any potential risks.

7. Are you supposed to drink mouthwash or spit it out?

Mouthwash should not be ingested, so it is important to spit it out after swishing it around in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Drinking mouthwash will not provide its intended benefits and may be harmful if consumed. Gargling and spitting is the recommended method of using mouthwash.

Editor's Notes

During our mouthwash research, we found 26 mouthwash products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 1,373,006 customer reviews through our big data system to write the mouthwashes list. We found that most customers choose mouthwashes with an average price of $16.24.

The mouthwashes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of mouthwashes, including Listerine, Colgate, TheraBreath, ACT, Crest. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Elisa Drew Avatar

Elisa Drew is a really professional copywriter specializing in baby products with five years of experience working as a pediatrician once. She has published a series of baby books purchased by over thirty thousand people in the United States.

Mouthwashes Comparison Table

#TOP1
Listerine Cool Mint Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1 L (Pack of 2) Cover
#TOP2
Colgate Peroxyl Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1.5% Hydrogen Peroxide, Mild Mint - 500ml Cover
#TOP3
TheraBreath Icy Mint Oral Rinse for Fresh Breath, 16 fl oz (Pack of 2) Cover
#TOP4
ACT Restoring Zero Alcohol Fluoride Mouthwash Cover
#TOP5
TheraBreath Healthy Gums Oral Rinse Cover
#TOP6
Crest Pro-Health Mouthwash Cover
#TOP7
Listerine Freshburst Antiseptic Mouthwash, Spearmint, 1 L, Pack of 2 Cover
#TOP8
Listerine Total Care Anticavity Fluoride Mouthwash Cover
#TOP9
TheraBreath Oral Rinse, Mild Mint, 16oz (Pack of 2) Cover
#TOP10
Listerine Zero Alcohol Mouthwash Cover
BrandListerineColgateTheraBreathACTTheraBreathCrestListerineListerineTheraBreathListerine
Product BenefitsBad Breath TreatmentCleansingCavity Protection,Freshening,Cleansing,Fresh Breath,Throat Care,Fight Bad BreathFreshen,Freshen BreathBad Breath TreatmentCavity ProtectionAntisepticCavity ProtectionBad Breath TreatmentFreshening,Fresh Breath,Clean,Antiseptic,Bad Breath
Liquid Volume67.6 Fluid Ounces5E+2 Milliliters16 Fluid Ounces33.8 Fluid Ounces473 Milliliters67.6 Fluid Ounces0.14 Cubic Feet1 Liters946.35 Fluid Ounces1 Liters
FlavorCool MintMintIcy MintMint BurstHealthy GumsMintFresh BurstFresh MintMild MintCool Mint
Age Range (Description)AdultAdultAdultAdultAdultAdultAdultAdultAdultAdult
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon9.9
ftb score rating icon9.8
ftb score rating icon9.6
ftb score rating icon9.6
ftb score rating icon9.6
ftb score rating icon9.6
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.2
ftb score rating icon9.2
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