What to look for in a water flosser
In this post we offer recommendations for both corded (countertop) and cordless water flossers. If you have space (approx 6 x 6 inches) for one in your bathroom, we recommend going for countertop over cordless — we explain this in more detail in this section.
Both types of flosser come with similar features, not all of which are necessary. From our hands-on testing, the most essential features of a water flosser are:
Water flossers are an alternative to string floss
Instead of relying on traditional string floss, water flossers can be a viable substitute. Research indicates that incorporating a water flosser in conjunction with regular tooth brushing can decrease bleeding gums by 37%, a recommendation also supported by the European Federation of Periodontology.
Our in-house dentist Dr. Gemma Wheeler notes that interdental brushes are the most effective method of cleaning, but she does recommend water flossers for some people:
"A water flosser doesn’t replace interdental brushes, which are the most effective interdental cleaning method. My recommendation to patients is to find a cleaning method that works for them, and there is certainly a place for water flossers. The most effective type of interdental cleaning is the one that you will actually do."
In this post we recommend some reliable water flossers based on vigorous hands-on testing and advice from Dr. Wheeler.
Best countertop
Waterpik Ultra Professional WP-660
Why it's the best countertop flosser:
The Ultra Professional WP-660 has all of the essential features we look for in a water flosser. It is a suitable option whether you are taking proactive steps to clean interdentally, have periodontal disease or if you're recovering from oral surgery.
It is not portable like our best cordless choice below, the WP-560, but the slim handle is easy to hold and move around the mouth. The WP-560 is great, but, the smaller handle on the Ultra Professional gives the feeling of greater control. In-hand comfort is really quite important. In our testing, we found it easy to control the water flow from the handle, and the water pressure was easy to adjust with the rotating dial.
The WP-660 is fairly compact with hose storage to keep things neat, although there is no place to store any excess power cable. It actually has a smaller profile than you might imagine and although it's bulky, it doesn’t feel as dominant on a countertop as you might expect
An inherent benefit of a countertop option is that it has a larger water tank. The 600ml capacity means that you can floss for longer or get multiple flossing sessions from one single fill. There are 10 different pressure settings on the Ultra Professional. This is more than you need, but it does give a very finite level of control, which we like. Each setting varies by 10PSI.
Read our Waterpik Ultra Professional Review.
80+ second flossing time |
No place to stow excess power cable |
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Easy to rotate the nozzle |
It’s a more expensive option |
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10 pressure settings |
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Water control button on handle |
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Hose storage |
Best cordless
Waterpik Cordless Advanced WP-560
Why it's the best cordless water flosser:
The Cordless Advanced is one of the most comfortable cordless flossers we have used. Because of its portability, it's also better suited to those who travel. The shape and the large area of raised dots on the back make it lovely to hold. You feel in control, even when you want to rotate the nozzle.
The nozzle is easy to rotate so you can reach all the teeth and clean the entire mouth. In fact, rotating the nozzle on the Advanced is possibly easier than on the Ultra Professional. The large wheel used for rotating the nozzle feels natural to use with good feedback. Being able to rotate the nozzle makes it easier to reach all parts of the mouth.
The 207ml tank does offer 45 seconds of use on the most powerful of the 3 pressure modes. This is about half the time of the Waterpik Ultra Professional. You don’t have to rush with either, but a compromise for a more portable option is the smaller tank.
Read our Waterpik WP-560 Review.
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45+ second flossing time |
Price – it is expensive |
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Easy to rotate the nozzle |
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Grippy handle |
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3 pressure settings |
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Easy to attach magnetic charger |
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Travel pouch included in the box |
Other flossers we have tested
Only a select few of the water flossers we test actually make it into this best list.
And yet, we can’t say that any of the water flossers we have tested are really bad.
We have been most disappointed by the Waterpik Sonic-Fusion. Admittedly this is a hybrid product, rather than a standalone water flosser. It combines an electric toothbrush and water flosser to create a flossing toothbrush.
Unfortunately, the Fusion isn’t great at either job. It is noisy and cumbersome to use. You don’t get to enjoy all the benefits of an electric toothbrush and water flosser. You are better off sticking with separate items. A regular electric toothbrush and one of Waterpik’s other countertop water flossers.
The Waterpik WF-06 is a countertop model that has ‘whitening’ capabilities.
It allows you to add whitening tablets into the handle of the flosser. As the water passes through, it dissolves the tablet. It results in a mildly abrasive solution being pushed against the tooth surface. The idea is that it will remove light surface stains from your teeth.
The tablets contain glycerine which helps to lift the stains off the tooth surface. Silica, also contained in the tablets, is an abrasive ingredient which also helps remove stains. Both are effective stain removers and are commonly found in professional polishing pastes and in powder form for air polishing.
In theory, it works. Waterpik has done its own research and found it to be effective at removing stains.
In practice, people are often disappointed. It is an expensive solution that doesn’t deliver the tooth whitening results most would expect from Waterpik calling it a “whitening” water flosser. It is only ever going to remove extrinsic staining. It won’t change the natural colour of the teeth like professional bleaching.
Oral-B is a major player in the oral care space. It has produced water flossers in the past, the Oxyjet being the most well-known.
But it has been quite some time since it has competed properly within this space. Recently it has attempted to change this with its new Aquacare range.
Given its experience and might within the industry we expected better.
The Aquacare 4 has a 45 second flossing time. It have 2 pressure settings, 2 weeks of battery life and a water resistant design.
It has a rotating nozzle, comfortable to hold and comes with a 2 year warranty.
But, it does not feel the best quality. The retaining clip for the water tank on the Aquacare 4 broke off in our testing.
The nozzle does rotate, but not all that easily.
The different pressure settings and modes are made more complicated than they need to be.
It comes with a bulky charging stand that is less than ideal for travel.
As you will have seen from our top choices, Waterpik does make some excellent products.
The Waterpik Cordless Advanced takes the top spot for best cordless water flosser. A good alternative is the Cordless 3000 Power Flosser from Philips.
It replaces the AirFloss that came before it. It wasn’t a true water flosser, offering bursts of air mixed with water. The Cordless 3000 is and it is a very good product.
It is arguably comparable to the Cordless Advanced, in fact you get longer usage times from it as the tank is bigger and the X shaped water jet allows for a larger area to be cleaned with each pass of the teeth and gums.
However, it isn’t perfect, the Waterpik's nozzles rotate easier and replacement nozzles are more affordable.
The Cordless Advanced and Cordless Select WF-10 have magnetic chargers. In fact, the Cordless Select has a magnetic USB charging cable. This is super convenient and great for travellers.
Yet, despite this benefit, it loses favour because of the cramped grip. You don’t get the same in hand comfort as the vast majority of other models. We found it one of the most awkward models to use.
You don’t have to worry quite so much about in hand comfort with the likes of the Waterpik Nano, Ultra or Ultra Plus. These are countertop units. They have slim handles, which the fingers and thumbs easily hold onto.
The Nano, Ultra and Ultra Plus are all good options. But, there is little to differentiate between them. When you consider their features and price, our preference is the Ultra Professional.
None of the Waterpik units will ever be as cheap as the east Asian brands — Truewell, Hangsun, Atmoko and Nicwell to name a few — nor will you get as many accessories in the box.
But if you do want a cheaper option from Waterpik, the WF-03 Cordless Freedom is a good option.
The compromise here is the small water tank. It is just 150ml. This means less flossing time per fill of the tank. It also has removable AA batteries rather than a built-in rechargeable one. But, in its favour, you do have the option of the different types of interchangeable nozzles. You don’t with most other cheap models.
As this page has shown, Waterpik dominate the water flosser market. It comes as no surprise that they have been relatively unchallenged by a major brand.
Oral-B has had a go, but in all honesty, they are not good enough devices. Philips attempt with their Sonicare Power Flosser range of flossers on the other hand though is a different story.
No less than 4 different countertop models and a cordless device have been introduced, although just 2 are available in Australia. They are quite similar, with subtle differences. Our power flosser comparison highlights the notable differences.
All are very good, but it is the power flosser 3000 being the best of the countertop units.
Unsurprisingly there is some similarity between the 3000 and the Waterpik Aquarius. The Power Flosser is the better looking, it is quieter in use too. It is the best alternative to Waterpik from a reputable manufacturer. But, a couple of small details let it down. It has no rotating nozzle and it isn’t quite as good value for money.
All flossers, irrespective of brand, have their pros and cons. For our main recommendations, we have chosen products that are comfortable to use and come with the features that we regard as essential. Comfort is important when it comes to interdental cleaning — the more comfortable a product is, the more likely you are to build a good flossing habit.
Buyer's guide: useful pre-purchase advice
With the help of our in-house dentist Dr. Gemma Wheeler, we’ve added useful notes and tips from our research and testing. In the sections below, we include the most relevant and important information about shopping for a water flosser. If you’ve got any questions or would like further advice, please leave a comment below.
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:
- Those who have limited hand mobility and so struggle with interdental brushes.
- People with large gaps where a brush doesn’t fit but food gets trapped.
- Those who won’t use floss and brushes due to a gag reflex, negative experience, or who can’t get the technique right.
- 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."
The 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.
Water control button on the handle (countertop)
A button or switch on the flosser handle allows for much greater control of the water flow. This makes it easy to stop, start and pause the jet of water. No need to use the on/off switch on the countertop unit itself.
Rotating nozzle (or handle for countertop)
Having a 360 degree rotating nozzle makes it easier to reach all parts of the mouth.
Comfortable grip (cordless)
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.
Hose storage (countertop)
Having a convenient place to tuck away the hose when not in use avoids trailing cables around the bathroom.
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:
600ml+ water tank (countertop)
Having a large tank allows for multiple uses from a single fill, or extended flossing times for those who need more time when cleaning.
2+ week battery life (cordless)
A battery life stated as being at least 2 weeks allows for a good amount of use between charges.
Battery status/charge light (cordless)
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.
Compact footprint
A compact footprint reduces the amount of space the water flosser takes up in your bathroom.
Power cable storage (countertop)
If the flosser comes with a mechanism for keeping excess cables tidy it is a bonus. It helps to keep the bathroom tidy and makes it easier to stow the flosser away if necessary.
Mode/pressure setting notification lights (cordless)
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 (cordless)
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 (cordless)
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.
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 over a cordless water flosser. If it is cordless that you're interested in, we make a few more suggestions in our best cordless water flosser post. 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.
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.
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.
Examples of how much space countertop flossers take up
One of the drawbacks to countertop water flossers is that they are larger. Each model is different, but you generally need an area 6 x 6 inches or 15 x 15cm on your countertop to accommodate the footprint of the water flosser. You then want to have about 10-12 inches (25-30cm) space above this free for the unit to stand upright.
Each corded unit has a power cable that is around 3-4ft (90-120cm) in length. The hose from the handle tends to be of a similar length too. A maximum distance from the power socket and the sink is approximately 2 meters. Any more than this and you will likely struggle.
If you are short of countertop space, one option is to store the flosser elsewhere and get it out as and when you need it. Many people place it in a bathroom cabinet. This overcomes the space issue, but regular use can become more challenging as it takes more effort and time to get it setup, and there isn’t the visual reminder from it sitting in plain sight.
Here is a table comparing the sizes of some of the most popular water flossers:
| Model | Width | Depth | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Waterpik Ultra Professional/Aquarius Professional | 4.70 inches (11.94 cm) | 3.80 inches (9.65 cm) | 10.35 inches (26.29 cm) |
| Waterpik Ultra Plus | 5.60 inches (14.22 cm) | 5.30 inches (13.46 cm) | 9.90 inches (25.15 cm) |
| Waterpik Sidekick | 5.70 inches (14.48 cm) | 3.90 inches (9.91 cm) | 4.84 inches (2.29 cm) |
| Waterpik Nano | 5.40 inches (13.72 cm) | 4.40 inches (11.18 cm) | 6.80 inches (17.27 cm) |
| Hydro Floss | 8.27 inches (21cm) | 3.93 inches (10cm) | 4.92 inches (12.5cm) |
A bit more on why having different pressure settings is 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 100 PSI, although some models reach as much as 160 PSI. Low pressure tends to be around 30-45 PSI and high 60-80 PSI, 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 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. Going by the studies that have been completed, it seems that water flossers do not fully remove plaque. Despite this, they can still have a positive effect on the gums, as we explain below.
Waterpik publishes its own clinical research
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.
The benefits of water flossers
- Convenience: you 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. A long nozzle makes it easy to reach the back teeth.
- Less time-consuming: 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, bridges and crowns: 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.
- Nozzle variety: a variety of nozzles allows for a more personalised oral care routine. Individual circumstances, such as periodontal disease, can be more effectively treated at home.
And the drawbacks
- 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: a 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 by a water flosser as it is with an interdental brush.
- 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 the different nozzles / tips work
d 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. Here's a short explanation of what various tips can be used for:
- Orthodontic tip: this 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. Some 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 £4-5 per tip, whereas a Fairywill option will cost around £2.50. Please note. Although nozzles are interchangeable, 1 brand might not be interchangeable with another. For example, Waterpik nozzles will not work with Sonicare.
Key tips for water flosser use
Create a regular habit. Doing so will have the biggest impact, over and above the water flosser you choose.
- Clean between the teeth with the water flosser at least once a day
- Use the correct flossing technique
Ensure that alongside flossing you:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste. See our list of dentist recommended toothpastes
- Brush for 2 minutes each time, using an electric toothbrush or a manual toothbrush
- Use the correct brushing technique
- Spit after brushing, don’t rinse with mouthwash or water
Water flosser reviews & help guides
Below is a list of the various water flosser reviews and comparisons we have completed, and other supporting help guides.
- Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000, 5000 & 7000 review
- Philips Sonicare Cordless Power Flosser 3000 review
- Waterpik WP-660 Ultra Professional water flosser review
- Waterpik Cordless Advanced WP-560 review
- Philips Sonicare Power Flosser 3000 vs 5000 vs 7000
- Panasonic EW1511 review
- Waterpik Cordless Select review
- Waterpik Cordless Express review
- Waterpik Ultra Plus review
- Oral-B Aquacare 4 Water Flosser review
- Philips Sonicare AirFloss Ultra review
- Waterpik Whitening water flosser review
- Best cordless water flosser 2023
What about using a water flossed with peroxyl? I've found this very effective against gingivitis but to do so you need one with a relatively small tank and pulse jet otherwise it's very wasteful. Phillips do the best in this bracket but two have failed for me requiring a replacement.
This isn't an approach we would generally recommend. There might be specific/personal circumstances where this could be beneficial but we leave this advice to be given by dental professionals upon providing personalized oral care routine recommendations.