Mouthwash typically has an expiration date of 2-3 years from the manufacture date. Most mouthwashes contain alcohol or another astringent, which starts to dissolve after 2 or 3 years and essentially waters down the liquid. This may encourage bacteria growth, which makes expired mouthwash potentially unsafe to use. Common mouthwash ingredients such as fluoride, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oils also deteriorate over time, making them less effective.
Expired mouthwash may contain bacteria and rancid ingredients, making it unsafe for use. Signs that your mouthwash is past its prime include changes to its color, a strange smell, and an unusual consistency. Using expired mouthwash may not effectively clean your teeth, gums, and mouth, prevent tooth decay, or eliminate bad breath. Moreover, it can potentially lead to oral health problems, as it may contain harmful bacteria that can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
If you have a mouthwash bottle with no date and you’re unsure about it, stay on the safe side and don’t use it. Due to the breakdown of its active ingredients, expired mouthwash is likely ineffective and possibly harmful. Proper storage is essential for extending the shelf life of mouthwash, and people should look for signs that the product has expired before use.
If you have expired mouthwash, it is best to discard it. However, if you dont want to waste the remaining product by throwing it away, you can use it as a toilet bowl cleaner.
