SLS-Free Mouthwash - Gentle and Effective Oral Care for a Healthier Smile‍

Last updated on:
August 31, 2023
Our efforts for green living are supported by partnerships. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission, at no additional cost to you.
Learn more →

Mouthwashes or mouth rinses are typical medications used to rinse the mouth and are an important step in the oral care routine. Many mouthwashes give a quick cleaning effect and are easy to use. One of the major ingredients seen in mouthwashes is sodium lauryl sulfate or SLS. Is it the right ingredient to choose? Does it have any health risks? Let's read further to know more.

What is sodium lauryl sulfate?

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is a surfactant and a major ingredient in cleaning and personal care products. It is an effective foaming agent to create lather in personal care products.

Sodium lauryl sulfate is the reason behind the foaming action in toothpaste and mouth rinses, which helps to remove the food debris from the teeth. It is inexpensive and widely used in grooming products, hair products, bath products, creams, and lotions. We may think for a while, the common cleaning ingredient is also used in our oral care products and is it safe?

Keep reading to find the answers and decide whether to use a product with SLS or not.

Why is SLS used in mouthwashes?

Mouthwashes are a part of the daily oral care regime. It rinses the mouth and leaves a fresh good feel. The mouthwashes help reduce the bacterial load by killing the bacteria, reducing inflammation of gums, and removing plaque.

Mouthwashes contain SLS as an active ingredient that helps in foaming and reaches all over the mouth. It reduces the surface tension of the liquid and allows the fluid to spread easily. 

But there are mouth rinses free of sodium lauryl sulfate too. The reason is that SLS can cause gum irritation and mouth ulcers.

What Are the Harmful Effects Of SLS In Toothpaste?

Sodium lauryl sulfate, being an effective foaming agent, destroys the lecithin layer of cells, disrupting oral microflora. This leads to damage to the skin and mucous membranes of the oral cavity. It can be severely harsh to the oral tissues making sodium lauryl sulfate "a bad" ingredient.

The reported oral health problems of SLS are

  • SLS Allergy/Sensitivity: It can make sensitive skin irritated, itchy, and crack at mouth corners.
  • Oral Ulcers: SLS can cause small ulcers in the mouth, and wound healing is delayed. Also, aggravates the pain. The condition with recurrent painful ulcers is called " Recurrent aphthous stomatitis".
  • Hormonal Imbalance: Various studies have shown evidence that prove residual levels of SLS are linked to hormonal imbalances which can affect important body functions like growth, metabolism, and reproduction and more.
  • Cancer: A public debate is still ongoing on whether SLS is a potential carcinogen or not. There is no solid evidence to confirm SLS as a cancer-causing agent, but the SLS byproduct dioxane is a suspected carcinogen that may remain in our bodies.

What Is A SLS -Free Mouthwash?

Mouth Rinses are made available without sodium lauryl sulfates and the ingredient can be replaced with other safer options like polyethylene glycol esters of stearic acid. It rarely causes mucosal irritation and can be used in patients with mouth ulcers. 

Opting for an SLS-free mouth rinse is a wise choice for maintaining oral health without any concerns. These rinses use natural alternatives like pure essential oils and herbal extracts, minimizing the use of chemicals through a holistic approach.

This type of mouth rinse is safe even for individuals who have undergone radiation therapy or have sensitive oral tissues. It provides effective care while keeping your overall well-being in mind. Mouth rinses free of SLS are equally effective in making teeth and gums cleaner.

Always use oral care products with safe ingredients that provide good oral health. Choose the best for you and your family.

5 Best SLS - Free Mouthwashes

1.hello -Mouthwash Concentrate

hello sls free mouthwash

hello, mouthwash concentrate comes in a mint flavor, with natural ingredients that help in proper oral cleaning.

It uses glycerin, water, coconut oil, and tea tree oil as major ingredients.

It promotes oral health, prevents plaque accumulation, and gives fresh breath. The mouthwash is safe to use without SLS, parabens, sulfates, and triclosan. The product is also cruelty-free certified. The product is safe and easy to use without any adverse effects.

2. Biöm’s Swish Mouthwash

Biom sls free mouthwash

Biöm’s swish mouthwash is a herbal formula made with natural ingredients, steering clear of any potential chemical additives commonly found in other mouthwashes. Neem and Licorice Extracts, renowned in traditional medicine for centuries, work together to combat harmful bacteria and provide natural anti-inflammatory benefits. Meanwhile, Spearmint and Peppermint Essential Oils ensure a refreshingly minty experience that lingers throughout the day. Complementing these benefits are xylitol and Stevia, serving not only as natural sweeteners but also as guardians of the mouth's delicate pH balance. 

The product is both cruelty-free and vegan, with eco-friendly packaging. Plus, it's free from harsh chemicals and artificial preservatives, including SLS and alcohol.

3. Weleda Ratanhia Mouthwash

Weleda ratanhia  organic mouthwash

Weleda ratanhia mouthwashes come with pure organic plant extracts for a refreshing mouth and breath. The natural plant extracts soothe the gums and tone them. 

This mouth rinse contains special extracts from ratanhia and myrrh plants, known for their astringent and soothing effects. It serves as a lasting breath freshener with the natural essences of eucalyptus and peppermint oils. Ideal for individuals dealing with bad breath, it also helps to strengthen and tighten gums.

The product is vegan, fluoride, and SLS-free, and an eco-friendly product to choose from. 

It is effective in oral cleaning, is safe, and helps in maintaining oral health.

4. Tom’s Of Maine -Wicked Fresh  Mouthwash

natural sls free mouthwash

Tom's of Maine is a green brand using natural ingredients. The mouthwash is clinically proven to provide oral care and fresh breath. The key ingredients include water, glycerin, sorbitol, vegetable-derived propanediol, and natural flavoring agents. The zinc present in the mouth rinse kills the odor-causing bacteria and leaves long-lasting fresh breath. 

The mouth rinse is fluoride-free, SLS-free, and vegan. Also free from artificial colors and preservatives.

5.hello peace out, plaque antigingivitis mouthwash

sls free mouthwash from hello

hello antigingivitis mouthwash is formulated for restoring healthy gums and preventing plaque accumulation. Similar to the other natural products, they have used only natural ingredients like coconut oil and aloe vera. Natural sweetener xylitol and mint make the product have an acceptable taste. 

The product is alcohol-free, fluoride-free, and free from all toxic chemicals making it safe to use. Peace out and have a fresh breath with “ hello mouth rinse”.

6. Hello Kids Organic Watermelon Fluoride Free Mouth Rinse

kid friendly sls free mouthwash

hello natural and kids-friendly mouth rinse comes in a watermelon flavor, formulated with aloe vera and natural sweeteners. It is safe to use for kids and can remove food particles that brushing may miss. Kids will enjoy using mouthwash and this can help to develop good oral care habits. It can be used as a quick alternative if the child is not ready to brush. They can experience the goodness of the product, which is free from harmful chemicals, dyes, parabens, and sulfates. The formula is both vegan and eco-friendly, holding certified safety that makes it an ideal option even for the young ones

A quick note

Mouthwashes are important in the oral care regime. They play a vital role by reducing bacterial presence, alleviating inflammation, and ensuring a refreshing breath. However, the prevalent use of SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) as a common ingredient in mouth rinses has been linked to mucosal irritation and potential health hazards.

Opting for natural and safe alternatives to SLS offers effective mouth rinses without any undesirable consequences. Consider selecting a natural product that is free from SLS and aligns with environmentally friendly practices. Embrace this positive change for our well-being.