Natural mouthwash alternatives: DIY recipes to keep your breath fresh and your mouth clean

01/22/2025 / By HRS Editors

Bad breath (halitosis) is a common issue caused by bacteria in the mouth breaking down food particles and releasing sulfur compounds that produce unpleasant odors.
While brushing, flossing and tongue scraping are essential, natural mouthwashes can offer additional protection and a means to avoid harsh chemicals.
Many store-bought mouthwashes contain alcohol, artificial dyes and synthetic flavors that can dry out the mouth, worsen bad breath and irritate the oral microbiome.
DIY natural mouthwashes do not contain harmful chemicals, are cost-effective and use gentle ingredients. They provide a safer, more sustainable option for maintaining fresh breath and oral hygiene.
Switching to natural mouthwashes reduces exposure to harmful chemicals, promotes a healthier lifestyle and supports sustainable practices. Lab-verified natural products are also a reliable alternative for those seeking non-toxic oral care solutions.

Bad breath is a universal concern that can strike anyone, anytime. Whether it’s the lingering aroma of garlic from last night’s dinner or the result of bacteria thriving in your mouth, bad breath (or halitosis) is something most people want to avoid. (h/t to Healthline.com)

While store-bought mouthwashes promise a quick fix, many contain harsh chemicals like alcohol, artificial dyes and synthetic flavors that can irritate your mouth and even disrupt your oral microbiome.

Fortunately, you don’t need to rely on commercial products to keep your breath fresh. Natural alternatives, made with simple ingredients, can be just as effective and are even gentler on your body.

Why go natural?

Bad breath typically originates in the mouth, where bacteria feast on food particles left behind after meals. These bacteria release sulfur compounds, which are responsible for that unpleasant odor.

While brushing, flossing and tongue scraping are essential for maintaining oral hygiene, a natural mouthwash can provide an extra layer of protection. (Related: Consumer beware: Harmful ingredients in toothpaste and natural alternatives you can use.)

However, store-bought mouthwashes often contain alcohol, which can dry out your mouth and actually worsen bad breath over time.

Other ingredients, like chlorhexidine and sodium lauryl sulfate, may cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Chlorhexidine has also been found to cause temporary teeth staining after use.

By switching to a natural alternative, you can avoid harsh chemicals while still enjoying fresh breath and a clean mouth.

The benefits of making your own mouthwash

Here are some reasons to try making natural mouthwash alternatives:

No mystery ingredients

When you make your own mouthwash, you know exactly what’s in it, unlike store-bought products that may contain hidden chemicals or artificial additives.

Gentle on your mouth

Natural ingredients like baking soda, essential oils and honey are less likely to cause irritation or dryness.

Cost-effective

Homemade mouthwash is often cheaper than store-bought options, especially if you already have some of the ingredients at home.

Mouthwash recipes to try at home

Here are two easy-to-make, natural mouthwash recipes that will leave your breath feeling fresh and your mouth feeling clean.

Simple mouthwash

This recipe is perfect if you want a quick, no-fuss solution. Baking soda neutralizes odors while tea tree oil has natural cleansing properties. Peppermint oil adds a refreshing minty flavor.

Ingredients:

1 Cup of filtered water
4 Teaspoons of baking soda
4 Drops of tea tree essential oil
4 Drops of peppermint essential oil

Instructions:

Add the ingredients to a Mason jar or any container with an airtight lid.
Shake well to combine.
Use about two tablespoons of the mixture as a mouthwash. Swish the liquid in your mouth for at least 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Shake well before each use because the baking soda may settle at the bottom.

Cinnamon and honey mouthwash

This recipe combines the natural sweetness of honey with the warm spice of cinnamon. Lemon juice helps balance pH levels while baking soda gently cleanses.

Ingredients:

1 Cup of warm water
2 Organic lemons, juiced
1/2 Tablespoon of cinnamon powder
5 Teaspoons of raw, organic honey
1 Teaspoon of baking soda

Instructions:

In a Mason jar or a similar container with an airtight lid, add the lemon juice, honey, baking soda and cinnamon.
Pour in the warm water. Make sure it’s warm enough to melt the honey.
Close the lid and shake vigorously for one minute.
Store in the refrigerator and use two tablespoons as a mouth rinse.

Switching to natural oral care products isn’t just about fresher breath. It’s about protecting your family from unnecessary exposure to harsh chemicals.

By making your own mouthwash, you’re taking a small but meaningful step toward a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle. Alternatively, you can try lab-verified products made with natural and non-toxic ingredients to ensure that your breath stays fresh without any harmful ingredients.

Where to find lab-verified products to support optimal oral health

The Health Ranger Store is committed to helping you support optimal oral health while avoiding harmful chemicals in store-bought products. That’s why we’re proud to introduce lab-verified products that you can trust such as Health Ranger Select Colloidal Silver Mouthwash & Gargle (with Iodine and Zinc), O3 Ozone-Infused Oil Pulling Solution and Health Ranger Select Toothsalt with Neem.

Health Ranger Select Colloidal Silver Mouthwash & Gargle (with Iodine and Zinc) contains natural ingredients such as Black Walnut Hulls, Clove Oil and Colloidal Silver (Water, Silver). It is gluten- and fluoride-free, proudly made in the USA and thoroughly lab tested for glyphosate, heavy metals and microbiology.

Please note that Colloidal Silver Mouthwash & Gargle is strictly sold as a cosmetic for cleansing the mouth. Shake the bottle well before using and swish one tablespoon for 30 seconds once or twice daily after brushing.

Oil pulling is the ancient practice of cleaning your mouth using oil. It is especially popular among natural health advocates because it helps remove impurities from the mouth.

Oil pulling is easy to do: Just put about a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around before spitting it out.

O? Ozone-Infused Oil Pulling Solution uses only lab-verified organic ingredients for outstanding penetration and ozone-carrying capacity. It is made with Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil and Organic Peppermint Essential Oil.

Here’s what our premium oil pulling solution can do for your oral health when you add it to your daily routine:

Cleans the tongue, palate, gums, teeth and upper throat
Helps remove impurities from the mouth
Naturally freshens breath
Helps maintain strong teeth and healthy gums

One of the best natural alternatives to mainstream chemical-filled toothpaste, Health Ranger Select Toothsalt with Neem contains no fluoride, artificial chemicals or toxins. Our premium toothsalt formula uses only pure and natural ingredients, such as sea salt, organic neem powder, essential oils and more.

Health Ranger Select Toothsalt with Neem allows you to enjoy outstanding overall oral health and hygiene without worrying about synthetic chemicals. It is non-China and thoroughly lab tested for glyphosate, heavy metals and microbiology.

Visit HolisticDentistry.news for more tips on how to support optimal oral health naturally. You can also check out Health Ranger Store and Brighteon Store for more clean supplies that will help keep your breath fresh and your mouth clean.

Watch the video below for more tips on how to start oil pulling for optimal oral health.

This video is from the Health Ranger Store channel on Brighteon.com.