Dental floss is a crucial tool in maintaining oral hygiene, reaching where toothbrushes can't. When it comes to unwaxed dental floss, the market offers a variety of options with different features to cater to individual preferences and needs. Factors such as thickness, tensile strength, resistance to shredding, flavor, and ease of use play a significant role in determining the effectiveness and user experience of unwaxed dental floss. Understanding these key aspects can help you make an informed decision when selecting the best unwaxed dental floss for your oral care routine in 2024.
Thickness, tensile strength, and resistance to shredding are essential characteristics to consider when choosing unwaxed dental floss. The thickness of the floss can impact its cleaning ability, with thicker floss potentially providing better cleaning but being more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces. Tensile strength, measured in pounds per square inch (psi), ensures that the floss does not break easily during use, offering durability and reliability. Additionally, the resistance to shredding, determined by how many times the floss can withstand being pulled through tight contacts before breaking, is a crucial factor in assessing the overall quality and longevity of the floss.
Tom's of Maine Natural Unwaxed Dental Floss: Eco-Friendly Natural Dental Floss
Tom's of Maine Antiplaque Waxed Flat Floss, Spearmint - 32 yds -- $4.69(Vitacost.com)
Tom's of Maine Antiplaque Flat Floss Waxed Spearmint - 32 Yards - Case o... -- $38.49(Target)
Why We Picked It
Tom's of Maine Natural Unwaxed Dental Floss is chosen for its commitment to natural dental care, offering a product free from artificial colors, flavors, fragrance, and synthetic waxes. Its use of natural fibers aligns with the growing consumer demand for products that are both effective and environmentally friendly. This floss is ideal for those who prioritize natural ingredients in their personal care routine without compromising on quality.
Who It's For
This dental floss is best suited for individuals looking for a more natural and eco-friendly option in their dental hygiene products. It's perfect for those who are sensitive to artificial flavors and fragrances or who prefer products without synthetic additives. However, it may not be the best choice for users who require a very durable floss, as the natural fibers may break more easily than their waxed counterparts.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Made from natural fibers for a more eco-friendly option | ❌ May break more easily than waxed floss options |
| ✅ Free from artificial colors, flavors, fragrance, and synthetic waxes | ❌ Some users might prefer the glide of waxed floss |
| ✅ Ideal for users with sensitivities to artificial additives | ❌ Potentially less durable during use |
Dr. Tung's Smart Floss: Best Floss for Superior Cleaning
Dr. Tungs Smart Floss 30 Yards (3 Pack) -- $14.95(Walmart - Brand Name Deals)
Dr. Tungs Smart Floss - 30 Yards - Case of 6 -- $24.99(Amazon)
Dr. Tung's - Smart Floss -- $5.83(Healthy Planet USA)
Why We Picked It
Dr. Tung's Smart Floss is selected for its superior cleaning ability, as it is clinically proven to remove up to 55% more plaque than regular flosses. Its expanding filaments and natural cardamom flavor provide a unique and effective flossing experience, while also being an eco-friendly choice.
Who It's For
This floss is ideal for individuals who prioritize dental hygiene and are looking for a more effective clean between their teeth. It's also a great option for those who prefer natural products with a pleasant taste. However, it might not be the best fit for people with extremely tight spaces between their teeth due to its slightly thicker design.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Clinically proven to remove more plaque | ❌ May be challenging to use in very tight spaces |
| ✅ Expands to clean effectively between teeth | ❌ Slightly thicker than regular floss |
| ✅ Natural cardamom flavor for a fresh experience | ❌ Price may be higher compared to standard flosses |
Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Dental Floss: Best Natural Antimicrobial Dental Floss
Desert Essence Dental Floss Tea Tree Oil -- $3.6(TheBetterHealthStore.com)
Tea Tree Oil Dental Floss, No alcohol, 50 Yards (45.7 M) Waxed (Pack of 2) -- $7.73(Amazon)
Desert Essence Dental Floss Tea Tree Oil -- $3.6(TheBetterHealthStore.com)
Tea Tree Dental Floss 50 yd - Gluten Free - Cruelty Free - Naturally Wax... -- $21.47(Amazon)
Desert Essence, Tea Tree Dental Floss 50 yd - Gluten Free - Cruelty Free... -- $21.47(Amazon)
Tea Tree Dental Tape(3pk) - 30 yds -- $12.81(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Dental Floss is selected for its unique combination of traditional dental hygiene with the natural benefits of tea tree oil. This floss is designed to provide an effective way to clean between teeth while also offering antimicrobial properties to help maintain oral health. The inclusion of 100% pure Australian Tea Tree Oil adds a natural antiseptic quality to your daily dental care routine.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for individuals looking for a natural alternative to regular dental floss and those who are conscious about oral hygiene and the use of cruelty-free, gluten-free products. It may not be the best fit for those who are sensitive to strong flavors or scents, particularly the distinctive aroma of tea tree oil.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Infused with 100% pure Australian Tea Tree Oil for antimicrobial benefits | ❌ The flavor and scent of tea tree oil may not be enjoyable for all users |
| ✅ Gluten-free and cruelty-free, appealing to health-conscious consumers | ❌ Slightly higher price point compared to standard dental floss |
| ✅ Available in both floss and thicker dental tape for different dental needs | ❌ The waxed texture may not be preferred by those who like unwaxed floss |
Eco-Dent Gentle Floss: Best Eco-Friendly Dental Floss
GentleFloss Dental Floss, Waxed, Mint - Floss with Vegan Plant-Based Wax... -- $6.99(Amazon)
Eco-dent Gentlefloss Dental Floss, Waxed, Mint - Floss with Vegan Plant-... -- $11.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Eco-Dent Gentle Floss stands out for its commitment to environmental sustainability and ethical product standards. It is designed for consumers who are conscious about the impact of their purchases on the planet and animal welfare. The floss is coated with a blend of natural essential oils and enzymes, which not only helps in maintaining oral hygiene but also ensures a vegan and cruelty-free product.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for eco-conscious individuals who prefer vegan and cruelty-free oral care products. It's also ideal for those looking to reduce their plastic waste due to its recyclable packaging. However, it may not be the best choice for users who prefer a smoother flossing experience typically provided by waxed floss.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Vegan and cruelty-free, not tested on animals | ❌ Unwaxed texture may be less smooth for some users |
| ✅ Coated with natural essential oils and enzymes for oral health | ❌ May be slightly more expensive than conventional floss |
| ✅ Comes in recyclable cardboard packaging to reduce landfill waste | ❌ Limited flavor options compared to other brands |
Radius Natural Silk Floss: Eco-Friendly Dental Hygiene
Radius Floss Sachets, Natural Silk - 20 sachets -- $4.2(Radius)
Radius Floss, Natural, Pure Silk, Unscented -- $3.51(Swanson Health Products)
Radius Natural Unscented Silk Dental Floss, 33 Yards - 3 Pack, Compostab... -- $17(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Radius Natural Silk Floss stands out for its commitment to environmental sustainability and quality. Made from 100% biodegradable and compostable silk, this floss offers a naturally soft, fibrous cleaning texture that effectively removes plaque. It's spun by hand on a family-owned fair trade farm cooperative in Colombia, ensuring ethical sourcing and support for local communities. Coated in natural candelilla plant wax, it's free from artificial sweeteners, colors, flavors, synthetic waxes, GMO ingredients, preservatives, glutens, or yeasts. Designed for durability and inspected by hand, Radius floss is an eco-friendly choice for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on dental hygiene.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for environmentally conscious consumers who prioritize sustainable and ethically sourced products. It's also ideal for those with sensitivities to artificial ingredients and prefer natural, gentle options for dental care. Perfect for camping, travel, home compost, and septic tanks, it's a versatile choice for eco-friendly lifestyles.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 100% biodegradable and compostable, reducing environmental impact | ❌ More expensive than synthetic floss options |
| ✅ Handspun silk from a fair trade cooperative, supporting ethical sourcing | ❌ Limited availability compared to mainstream floss products |
| ✅ Free from artificial ingredients, suitable for sensitive users | ❌ May require adjustment for users accustomed to synthetic floss textures |
The Humble Co. Natural Dental Floss: Eco-Friendly Dental Care Choice
The Humble Co. Natural Dental Floss Picks (200 Count) -- $15.9(Amazon)
The Humble Co. Natural Dental Floss Picks (200 Count)Vegan, Eco Friendly... -- $15.9(Walmart - Cozy Farm)
Why We Picked It
The Humble Co. Natural Dental Floss stands out for its commitment to sustainability and health, offering a strong, shred-resistant flossing experience that's both vegan and eco-friendly. Made from nylon and coated with candelilla wax, it's designed for those who prioritize environmental responsibility and animal welfare in their dental care routine. The inclusion of xylitol adds to its appeal by promoting dental health, making it a thoughtful choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for individuals looking for an effective, eco-friendly dental flossing option. It's ideal for vegans and those who prefer products that are cruelty-free and made from plant-based materials. However, it might not be the perfect fit for purists who prefer completely unwaxed floss, despite its minimal, plant-based wax coating.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Made with 53% plant-based materials, reducing plastic use | ❌ Marketed as unwaxed but has a thin plant-based wax coating, which may confuse some consumers |
| ✅ Vegan and cruelty-free certified, appealing to ethical consumers | ❌ Made from nylon, which may not be fully biodegradable |
| ✅ Packaging doubles as a floss dispenser, enhancing convenience and sustainability | ❌ Price point may be higher compared to conventional floss options |
Boka Natural Dental Floss: Eco-Friendly Whitening Dental Floss
Boka Ela Mint Floss -- $6(Boka)
Boka Cinna Mint Woven Dental Floss, Made from Natural Vegetable Wax, Tef... -- $6.99(Amazon)
Boka Ela Mint Floss 3 Pack -- $15(Boka)
Why We Picked It
The Boka Natural Dental Floss stands out for its innovative use of activated charcoal, which is known for its plaque removal and teeth whitening properties. This floss combines the benefits of charcoal with a refreshing natural mint flavor, offering a unique approach to dental hygiene. Its commitment to using natural vegetable wax and being Teflon and petroleum-free further emphasizes its appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for eco-friendly and effective dental care solutions.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for individuals who prioritize natural and eco-friendly oral care products without compromising on effectiveness. It's especially suited for those looking to enhance their dental hygiene routine with the added benefits of activated charcoal for plaque removal and teeth whitening. However, it might not be the best fit for users who prefer traditional floss or are concerned about the potential messiness of charcoal.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Activated charcoal helps remove plaque and whiten teeth | ❌ Charcoal component might be messy for some users |
| ✅ Natural mint flavor for a refreshing clean feeling | ❌ Slightly higher price point than standard dental floss |
| ✅ Made from natural vegetable wax, Teflon and petroleum-free | ❌ May require an adjustment period for users new to charcoal products |
Woobamboo Biodegradable Silk Floss: Eco-Friendly Dental Care Choice
WooBamboo Floss, Biodegradable -- $4.99(Greenbay Essentials)
Woobamboo Floss Silk Mint - 20 Meters - Case of 6 -- $4.79(eBay - toothbrush_express)
Why We Picked It
The Woobamboo Biodegradable Silk Floss stands out as an eco-friendly dental hygiene option, crafted from natural silk and coated with beeswax for smooth use. Its biodegradability ensures that it's a more sustainable choice compared to traditional plastic-based dental floss, aligning with environmentally conscious lifestyles.
Who It's For
This product is ideal for individuals looking to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on their dental hygiene routine. However, due to its beeswax coating, it's not suitable for vegans or those strictly avoiding animal-derived products.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Made from natural silk, ensuring biodegradability | ❌ Not suitable for vegans due to beeswax |
| ✅ Coated with beeswax for ease of use | ❌ Limited flavor options with only mint available |
| ✅ Environmentally friendly alternative to traditional floss | ❌ Slightly higher price point compared to conventional floss |
Dental Lace Refillable Dental Floss: Best Eco-Friendly Dental Floss
Dental Lace Refillable Vegan Floss (Regular) -- $11(Green House Goods)
Dental Lace Refillable Floss -- $8.99(Lochtree)
Dental Lace Refillable Silk Floss (Blue) -- $11(Green House Goods)
Why We Picked It
The Dental Lace Refillable Dental Floss is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional dental floss. Its refillable glass container and biodegradable silk floss make it an excellent choice for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint. The use of candelilla wax ensures the floss glides easily between teeth, providing the same clean as conventional floss but with a sustainable twist.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for environmentally conscious consumers who are looking to minimize their plastic waste and are willing to invest a bit more in sustainable oral hygiene products. It's also a great fit for those who prefer natural materials like silk over synthetic options.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Refillable glass container reduces plastic waste | ❌ Higher cost compared to traditional plastic floss |
| ✅ Biodegradable mulberry silk floss is environmentally friendly | ❌ Silk is not a vegan material (though a vegan version is available) |
| ✅ Coated with natural candelilla wax for ease of use | ❌ May not be as widely available as conventional floss options |
Thanks for reading! If you have any more questions or need further recommendations, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help you find the best unwaxed dental floss for your needs!