Why Make Your Own Mouthwash?
Most conventional mouthwashes contain alcohol, artificial dyes, synthetic flavors, and antimicrobial agents like chlorhexidine that research suggests may do more harm than good over time. A 2016 study published in Nitric Oxide found that twice-daily use of alcohol-based, antibacterial mouthwash was associated with a meaningful increase in systolic blood pressure — likely because it disrupts the oral bacteria that help produce nitric oxide, a compound essential for cardiovascular health. And a review in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology noted that long-term use of chlorhexidine mouthwash can stain teeth, alter taste perception, and negatively impact the oral microbiome.
The good news? A truly effective, non-toxic mouthwash is surprisingly simple to make at home — with just a handful of clean ingredients you may already have. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or just curious about what's in your oral care routine, this recipe is a great starting point. And if you'd rather skip the mixing bowl, we've rounded up our favorite clean store-bought options at the bottom.
DIY Natural Mouthwash Recipe
What You'll Need
- 1 cup distilled water
- 1 tsp baking soda (neutralizes acids and freshens breath)
- ½ tsp fine sea salt (antimicrobial and soothing)
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil (breath-freshening and antibacterial)
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil (antimicrobial — use food-grade only)
- 5 drops clove essential oil (optional — supports gum health)
- 1 tsp birch xylitol (optional — helps prevent cavity-causing bacteria; we recommend Health Garden Birch Xylitol)
- An 8 oz glass jar with a lid for storing your mouthwash — we love these Ball Mason Jars on Amazon →
Instructions
- Combine distilled water and baking soda in a clean glass jar and stir until dissolved.
- Add sea salt and xylitol (if using) and stir again.
- Add essential oils and shake or stir well to combine.
- Store in a sealed glass jar or bottle at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Shake before each use. Swish for 30–60 seconds, then spit. Do not swallow.
Pro tip: Always use distilled water (not tap) to avoid introducing bacteria or chlorine into your homemade formula. Make sure any essential oils you use are food-grade if there's any chance of accidental ingestion.
Tips for a Healthier Oral Care Routine
- Oil pull first. If you oil pull, do it before brushing and rinsing for maximum benefit.
- Skip the alcohol. Alcohol-based mouthwashes can dry out your mouth and disrupt your oral microbiome — look for alcohol-free formulas.
- Use a tongue scraper. Most bad breath originates on the tongue. A daily scrape makes a noticeable difference.
- Rinse, don't brush after eating. Wait 30 minutes after meals before brushing to protect enamel.
Prefer a Clean Store-Bought Option? We've Got You.
Not everyone has time to DIY — and that's completely fine. Here are three of our favorite non-toxic, alcohol-free mouthwashes that deliver real results without the questionable ingredients.
GuruNanda Oil Pulling Mouthwash
7 essential oils, alcohol-free, and rooted in Ayurvedic tradition. A great daily oil pulling ritual in one bottle.
Shop Now →
TheraBreath Fresh Breath Mouthwash
Dentist-formulated, alcohol-free, and clinically proven to fight bad breath for up to 24 hours. Comes in a 2-pack.
Shop Now →
Tom's of Maine Wicked Fresh! Mouthwash
A clean, fluoride-free formula with a bold mint flavor. No artificial dyes, no saccharin — just fresh breath, naturally.
Shop Now →Want to go beyond mouthwash? We put together a complete 7-step non-toxic oral care routine — from oil pulling to water flossing — with all our top clean product picks.
→ Read: Your Complete Non-Toxic Oral Care Routine→ Shop All Clean Oral Care
Want More Clean Living Tips?
We share non-toxic product finds, clean living recipes, and wellness tips every Friday. Join our community below — no spam, ever.