The 6 Best Water Flossers in 2025: Tested and Approved by Experts (2025)

Waterpik is one of the best-known brands in the water flosser sphere, and for good reason. The Ultra Cordless Water Jet Flosser WP450 cleans deep between teeth, using a good level of pressure and a pulsating mechanism.

It also performed best in our lab tests, as it was the most effective at removing plaque and food deposits on the buccal surfaces of the teeth. Our testers said it easily cleaned their wisdom teeth and behind their retainers, which are notoriously tricky-to-reach areas.

Key specifications

With six different modes, this flosser offers plenty of variation in water pressure for customised cleaning. Our testers said the pressure wasn’t too aggressive and didn’t cause any irritation — no matter which setting they used.

During testing, the panel also found the water tank a manageable size to hold — some models can be quite bulky — and easy to fill. They also gave the water flosser kudos for its ability to angle around gums.

Key specifications

H2o has innovated in the design of this gadget, adding a gravity ball at the end of the tube. This feature ensures water can still be sprayed out of the nozzle, no matter the angle of the flosser.

We especially love that this flosser is cordless and lightweight and has a battery life of 10-15 days on a full charge — perfect qualities for frequent travellers. Chuck it in your travel bag or suitcase and feel confident it won’t require a recharge mid-holiday.

It's even more impressive considering the price: just under £30. And although some of our testers said the water tank is slightly bulky, it holds enough water to last the full minute of flossing.

Key specifications

If you need to make flossing more appealing to teens (or are just a fan of colour), this model may do the trick. It has a fun hexagonal design and a smiley face on the on/off button, which add some whimsy to the usual mundanity of dental gadgets.

It has a long-lasting battery but a small water capacity. Although this means you'll have to refill it before you’re done, it’s also great for smaller hands.

Our testers found the flosser sprayed accurately between teeth to dislodge any leftover food and was gentle, too.

Key specifications

While many water flossers leave you high and dry mid-clean, Spotlight’s offering has a rather generous 400ml tank that powers through an entire session.

The three modes — gentle, clean and pulse — give plenty of options, but the real party piece is the UV sterilisation setting that keeps the tank bacteria-free.The selection of heads covers all the essentials, plus a handy tongue scraper. This is rather inspired since water tanks — with their narrow openings and perpetually damp interiors — can be a breeding ground for bacteria.

The only caveat? The tank and attachments don’t quite match the premium feel of the main unit, which has smart silver accents. But this is a minor gripe for an otherwise impressive piece of kit created by dentists Dr Lisa and Dr Vanessa Creaven of Spotlight Oral Care.

Key specifications

Ordo has made quite a name for itself in sustainable dental care, and its new water flosser continues that ethos — keeping both your wallet and conscience clean.

Three pressure settings deliver up to 2,000 pulses per minute, and a pulse button adds extra oomph when needed. Plus, the two colour-coded tips ensure you can share with your other half without any hygiene mishaps.

The limited tip selection is a bit of a let-down, though understandable given the price point. Also, the opaque tank means you can’t easily see when you’re running low on water.

However, these minor gripes fade when you consider the overall package. Even the box feels decidedly premium, with iPhone-esque packaging that makes you forget this flosser sits firmly in the budget category.

Key specifications

Which water flosser do dentists recommend?

Dentists frequently recommend Waterpik water flossers, particularly the Waterpik Ultra Cordless WP450, due to their clinically proven effectiveness at removing plaque. Key features dentists look for include adjustable pressure settings, different specialised tips and reliable water flow consistency.

What’s the difference between a Waterpik and a water flosser?

Waterpik is a brand name that has become synonymous with water flossers, similar to how Hoover became synonymous with vacuum cleaners. While Waterpik was the first company to develop water flossers and holds many patents, ‘water flosser’ is the generic term for any device that uses pressurised water to clean between teeth and below the gum line. Many companies now manufacture water flossers with similar technology and features.

Do water flossers remove tartar?

Water flossers can help prevent tartar buildup by removing plaque before it hardens, but they cannot remove existing tartar (calcified plaque) once it has formed on teeth. Only a dental professional can remove tartar during a cleaning session using specialised tools. However, regular use of a water flosser can reduce plaque accumulation and help prevent new tartar formation.

Do doctors recommend a water flosser?

Dental professionals recommend water flossers as an effective complement to brushing and traditional flossing — especially for patients with orthodontic appliances or bridges or those who struggle with conventional floss.

Clinical studies show that water flossers can help reduce gingivitis, improve gum health and reach areas that traditional flossing might miss. However, most dentists advise using water flossers in addition to, rather than as a replacement for, traditional flossing methods.

How to Choose the Best Water Flosser

Before investing in a water flosser, consider these factors:

• Settings: The right water flosser should offer various pressure settings. While powerful cleaning is important, having the option to dial it back for sensitive areas or when your gums need a gentler touch makes all the difference. Look for models with at least three pressure settings, such as sensitive, regular and deep clean.

• Tank capacity: Nothing kills the momentum of your dental routine quite like constantly refilling your water tank. Larger tanks mean fewer refills, but bigger isn't always better if it makes the device unwieldy. Consider where you'll store it and how often you're happy to refill it.

• Attachments: Basic models keep things simple with standard tips, but premium versions often include specialist attachments for braces, implants or periodontal pockets. Think about your specific needs — there’s no point paying extra for orthodontic tips if you don’t have braces.

• Battery life: Some models tether you to a power socket, while others offer cordless freedom. If you’re going cordless, look for devices that can last at least a week between charges. There’s little worse than reaching for your flosser only to find it’s run out of juice.

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