Best cordless water flosser 2023

Essential features to look for

Cordless water flossers offer a variety of different features. Not all are necessary. From our testing, the most essential features of a portable flosser are:

• 45 seconds or more flossing time: enough time to get a thorough clean without having to refill
• 2 or more pressure modes: important if you have any sensitivity
• Rotating nozzle: to help you reach all parts of the mouth
• Comfortable grip: a large area for the palm and fingers to grip onto is better than a slim handle. It’s also helpful if the grip is made from materials that prevent slippage

Our recommendations take all of these into account. We explain their importance in more detail in our buyer’s guide below, and explain why some features aren’t as necessary.

What is the evidence for and against water flossers?

Water flossers are one of the less common forms of interdental cleaning.

They are safe, with little ability to cause damage to the gums.

It seems that water flossers do not fully remove plaque. Despite this, they can still have a positive effect on the gums.

Waterpik has listed a large amount of clinical research on its website. Some people could perceive this as biased. But it is worth noting that it is independently scrutinised to be published in peer-reviewed journals. This means that you can discount any obvious problems with their data. However, do consider that they are unlikely to promote data that doesn’t support their hypotheses (read: advertising claims). Many of the articles are not available in full online, only the Waterpik summary or the paper abstracts.

Highlights from their research are (the link will lead you to the journal article, not the Waterpik page):

• Using a water flosser in addition to toothbrushing reduces bleeding gums and plaque levels. Lyle et al. compared bleeding scores and plaque levels in two groups: those using only an electric toothbrush; those using an electric toothbrush + water flosser. They found that the group who used the water flosser had decreased levels of bleeding gums. The plaque levels were also lower in those using the water flossers. Although these results were of less statistical significance.
• Waterpiks reduce gingival inflammation more than flossing does. Barnes et al. 2005 study found a Waterpik to be more effective than string floss in reducing gingival bleeding. This study compared manual toothbrush + floss to manual toothbrush + water flosser and sonic toothbrush + water flosser. They miss out a key comparison group: sonic toothbrush + flossing. This makes the evidence somewhat skewed in favour of the water flosser. Much of the benefit of switching to a powered brush is presented as being the water flosser, but there is no way to compare.
• Water flossers are effective and safe for implants. Kotsakis et al. showed that water flossers are as effective as interdental brushes and more effective than chlorhexidine mouthwash. They reduce the amount of bacteria on implants, without damaging the implant surface. 

Independent reviews and papers support most of these claims. 

Independent reviews by Ng and Lim as well as Worthington et al showed that water flossers do not reduce plaque levels. This is also shown in Waterpik’s own study in 2011. 

Despite ineffective plaque removal, water flossers do reduce inflammation of the gums. They reduce bleeding from the gums, an indicator for active gum disease.

Water flossers might not reduce levels of plaque, but it is thought they do disrupt forming plaque from above and below the gum level. The theory is that this changes the structure of the plaque layer. If the plaque structure is altered, it may cause less inflammation in the gums. But at present, this is only a theory.

The water flossers also flush out food debris. This 2015 review by Sälzer et al also supports water flossers for improving gingival health versus no interdental cleaning aid. The European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) also recommends water flossers for interdental cleaning in their evidence based guidelines.

Can a water flosser replace traditional flossing?

Yes.

The reviews already mentioned do show support for water flossers. Floss is also ineffective in most cases.

The limited evidence available does say water flossers are more effective than flossing.

But interdental brushes are more effective at cleaning than water flossers.

Who should use a water flosser?

Overall, water flossers are not the most effective method for plaque removal. But they still show benefits for gum health.

They are a good option for someone who has tried and failed to use interdental brushes.

Our in-house dentist Dr. Gemma Wheeler says:

“I would recommend a water flosser to certain people:

1. Those who have limited hand mobility and so struggle with interdental brushes. 
2. People with large gaps where a brush doesn’t fit but food gets trapped.
3. Those who won’t use floss and brushes due to a gag reflex, negative experience, or who can’t get the technique right.
4. Someone with braces, to help clean around the brackets.

I also say anyone who wants to try them can add them to an existing routine e.g. interdental brushes. 

Even with the evidence available, I know that the most effective type of interdental cleaning is the one that you will actually do. I want to support people to make flossing a habit.”

Cordless vs corded (countertop) water flossers

If you have space (approx 6 x 6 inches) for one in your bathroom, we recommend going for a countertop water flosser over a cordless water flosser.

We’ve found countertop models slightly more comfortable to use. They also have larger water reservoirs, meaning they have longer cleaning times and need to be refilled less often. They often come with extra features, such as extra pressure settings or a built-in timer.

There is no evidence to suggest one is better than the other. There are scientific studies that confirm the effectiveness of both. In our own hands-on testing, we have found them to be as effective as each other.

That being said, a cordless water flosser is still a perfectly good option if you don’t have space for a countertop model, or if you travel a lot.

Countertop units need a power outlet.  They need to be plugged in for them to work. You are therefore more restricted on where you place them.  

Cordless units are wire-free. This makes them more portable and convenient, particularly if you don’t have a socket in your bathroom.

How important are pressure settings?

Having different pressure settings is very useful.

You might not need to switch between them all the time, but having the choice is valuable.

Whilst countertop water flossers can have as many as 10 settings, 2 or 3 is common for cordless models.

You want at least a low and a high setting. As the names imply, the pressure varies between these.  Low is more gentle and high more intense.

Pressure is measured in Pounds Per Square Inch (PSI) or Bar. Typically the pressure ranges from 10 to 100PSI, although some models reach as much as 160PSI. 

Low pressure tends to be around 30-45PSI and high 60-80PSI, subject to model. 

The extra power can blast away more debris. But, sheer force is not essential and may feel uncomfortable to some people.  Lower pressure with the correct technique is equally as effective. 

There is no evidence to support using higher power over a lower power.

A low setting is ideal for inflamed, sensitive and bleeding gums. 

If you have healthy teeth and gums, the higher setting can be used.

The cordless water flosser features we regard as essential

From handling and testing lots of water flossers, we’ve come to regard some features as essential, and others as nice to have but not a dealbreaker if they are missing.

We deem the essential features of a good portable flosser to be:

45 seconds or more flossing time

Flossers with a water tank of around 200ml will achieve this. 45 seconds is enough time to get a thorough clean without having to refill. It can make the flosser slightly heavier but it is a worthwhile trade off.

2 or more pressure modes

If you have sensitive gums it is useful to be able to adjust the pressure.

Rotating nozzle

Having a 360 degree rotating nozzle makes it easier to reach all parts of the mouth.

Comfortable grip

From our testing, a large area for the palm and fingers to grip onto is better than a slim handle. It’s also helpful if the grip is made from materials that prevent slippage, particularly when wet.

Features that are nice to have, but not critical

There are lots of extra features that can be built into a flosser.  These are in our opinion not essential. They are nice to have if they are included:

2+ week battery life

A battery life stated as being at least 2 weeks allows for a good amount of use between charges.

Battery status/charge light

A battery status or charge light gives you a clear indication of how much power actually remains. You know when it will need recharging and there is less chance the flosser will cut out on you mid session.

Backed by clinical evidence

Scientific studies that have tested the product and confirm what it can achieve.

Approved by dental bodies and organisations

Independent assessment of the product and any clinical data that exists. Examples include the Oral Health Foundations “Approved” status and the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance.

Mode/pressure setting notification lights

Visible indicators to show the selected mode.

Variety of flossing tips

Interchangeable tips make the water flosser more adaptable to different use case scenarios. For example, some tips are designed to safely reach into periodontal pockets. These allow for deeper cleaning beneath the gum-line.

Nozzle storage 

Some flossers come with a place to stow any additional/replacement nozzles, which helps to keep the bathroom tidy. A removable lid cum storage compartment also works well.

Travel pouch/case

It’s a bonus if the flosser comes with a protective cover to prevent damage, leaks or accidental activation when in transit, but it’s not a deal-breaker if it isn’t included.

USB charging

USB charging offers a more convenient option as the cable tends to be smaller with no bulky power brick. It’s particularly useful for regular travellers.

2 Year warranty

Ideally the flosser will come with a warranty of 2 or more years so that you have the peace of mind that should the product fail it will be repaired or replaced. Typically products do come with a 2 year warranty, but there are some that only come with 1 year.

Pros & cons of cordless water flossers

Pros

• Convenience
  • Fill the tank and switch it on. 
  • It is less hassle than pulling out a length of floss and wrapping it around the fingers. Not to mention then feeding it between the teeth.
  • Rotating nozzles make it easy to reach awkward spots in the mouth.
  • The long nozzle makes it easy to reach the back teeth.
• Takes less time
  • You can complete a thorough floss of the teeth with a water flosser quicker than you can with string floss.
• Reduce inflammation and bleeding of the gums
  • The water reaches spaces that a toothbrush or traditional floss can’t. Notably, under the gumline. This means bacteria and debris that cause inflammation and bleeding are removed.
• They disrupt more plaque
  • Traditional string floss requires a very specific technique to be effective.
  • Water flossers are easier to use to disrupt the plaque layer.
• They are more gentle on the gums
  • Incorrect flossing technique can be painful or damaging to the gums.  
  • The pressurised water feels softer and gentle on the gums. It will stimulate blood flow.
  • Variable pressure settings allow you to find the right pressure for you.
• Suitable for braces, implants and bridges
  • The water flow allows for a quick and effective clean around dental appliances.
• They are easier for people with limited mobility (dexterity)
  • The nozzles allow for much easier positioning and reach into the mouth.
  • There are fewer fingers and thumbs and awkward movements.
• Different nozzles
  • A variety of nozzles allow for a more personalised oral care routine.
  • Individual circumstances, such as periodontal disease can be more effectively treated at home.

Cons

• Environmental impact
  • No studies into the environmental impact of water flossers exist yet. 
  • In 2020 a study compared electric toothbrushes to manual alternatives. Electric brushes came out worse in many areas.
  • The weight and electrical components likely make water flossers less environmentally-friendly. This is in comparison to other flossing options.
  • The heavy use of water also has a large impact on the environment. 
• Size
  • Even the most compact cordless water flosser isn’t as travel friendly as a reel of traditional floss.
• Noise
  • The water flosser makes quite a bit of noise when in use.
• Price
  • A cordless water flosser is more expensive than string floss or floss sticks.
• Interdental brushes are more effective
  • Despite the ease of use, interdental brushes produce better results.
  • Plaque isn’t removed as effectively.
• Water tank size/pressure settings
  • Each flossing session is limited to the size of the water tank and the pressure setting selected. You may have to refill the tank multiple times to complete the clean.
• Sink access
  • You need to be lent over a sink, even with a cordless, due to the amount of water that needs to be expelled during use.
• Batteries/power
  • Water flossers will require recharging or replacement batteries.

How do the different nozzles / tips work?

The type of nozzles or jet tips that fit a water flosser are interchangeable.

This means they can be changed as and when you like.

The most common nozzle is the ‘jet tip’.  This is suitable for the vast majority of users.

It is designed for everyday use, offering a deep clean between teeth and along the gumline.

Most water flossers come with this type of tip included and available as a spare/replacement.

Some brands, notably Waterpik, offer a wider variety of nozzles.

The additional nozzles are specifically designed to offer benefits to particular users.

Examples include:

• Orthodontic tip
  • The tip has a tapered brush on the end to help remove plaque from braces and orthodontics.  It also helps flush out bacteria and food debris from around teeth and under the gums.
• Plaque Seeker tip
  • Designed to clean in and around harder to reach areas.  Most notably dental restorations. 3 thin bristle tufts gently access stubborn plaque around dental implants, crowns, bridges and veneers.
• Pik Pocket tip
  • Designed to deliver water deep into periodontal pockets.  Ideal for those diagnosed with more advanced gum disease.
• Tongue cleaner
  • The nozzle has a spoon-like shape. This traps and removes plaque from the tongue, in an effort to prevent bad breath.
• Toothbrush tip
  • You can brush your teeth as you floss.
  • It acts like a manual toothbrush (the bristles do not move like an electric toothbrush).
• Implant denture tip
  • Designed to reach hard to access areas. Ideal to clean around dental appliances such as fixed implant bridges and dentures.

The names and features of the tips can vary from one brand to another.

The range of nozzles and the availability tends to be best with larger brands.

For example, DentJet only offers a jet tip only.  Those with more personalised needs will not be best served by DentJet.

Our research suggests Waterpik offers the best range.

In fact, out of the box, Waterpik models often come with some of these different tip types.

Your dental professional can recommend specific tips if they are suitable for you.

Manufacturer guidelines suggest a nozzle such as a jet tip should be replaced every 6 months.  More specialist tips such as a plaque seeker or orthodontic tip should be renewed every 3 months.

Many people will clean jet tips with distilled vinegar. This is to extend the usable life from them and reduce the need to replace them.

The type of nozzle and its availability can affect the cost.

A jet tip from Waterpik will likely cost in the region of $9 per tip, whereas a DentJet option will cost around $7.50.

Please note. Although nozzles are interchangeable, 1 brand might not be interchangeable with another. For example, Waterpik nozzles will not work with Sonicare.

The names and features of the tips can vary from one brand to another.

Things to know about travelling with a cordless flosser

Different water flossers come with different power supplies.

Many will come with a power cable suitable for the 3 pin outlet in your bathroom.

Few come with replaceable batteries.  But those that do can be a real winner for some. If you do need a water flosser with replaceable batteries, we recommend the Waterpik WF-03 Cordless Freedom.

More products now come with USB cables. These are more convenient, offering more flexibility when recharging.

If you intend to travel internationally, be aware of the different power requirements.  As a quick reference guide:

• Printed on base/plug – 100-240V
  • Where can it be used? Globally
  • Do I need a voltage convertor? No
  • Do I need a plug adapter? Subject to country
• Printed on base/plug – 220-240V
  • Where can it be used? In countries with 200-240V (e.g. most European countries, NOT US/Canada)
  • Do I need a voltage convertor? Yes if the voltage of the country you are travelling to is less than 220V
  • Do I need a plug adapter? Subject to country
• Printed on base/plug– 110 Volts 60 Cycles
  • Where can it be used? In countries with 110 volts (e.g. US/Canada)
  • Do I need a voltage convertor? Yes if the voltage of the country you are travelling to is higher than 110V
  • Do I need a plug adapter? Subject to country

It is worth considering protection for your water flosser when travelling.  Some, but not all come with cases included. 

More often than not, these are basic cloth pouch cases.  They offer limited protection.  What they do allow is for the flosser and all the accessories to be kept neatly together. They can help stop any excess water leaking out into a bag.

Some will also come with a separate case for the nozzles.

Do bear in mind, no water flosser we have tested, comes with any way to deactivate the buttons. It is possible that in a cloth case, a button might accidentally get pressed and the device activated.

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