A water flosser sends a thin, pulsing jet of water between your teeth and along the gumline. To choose one, look at four things: cordless or countertop, tank size, the number of pressure modes, and how easy it is to get spare tips and charge it. A cordless rechargeable model such as the UrbnCare Rechargeable Water Flosser ($39), with a 300 mL tank, 5 modes and 6 nozzles, suits most bathrooms and travels easily.

How to choose a water flosser

Cordless or countertop

Countertop flossers sit by the sink, plug into a socket and usually have a bigger water reservoir. Cordless flossers run on a built-in battery, so they work during power cuts, take up little space and can go in a suitcase. Buyrouth sells the cordless type.

Tank size

A small tank means refilling halfway through. The UrbnCare tank holds 300 mL (10 oz), which its listing says is one fill for the whole mouth. The tank also detaches, which makes it easier to rinse and dry.

Pressure modes

Several modes let you start gently and change the setting later. The UrbnCare flosser has 5 flossing modes.

Tips and sharing

Look for a flosser that comes with several tips and has spare tips on sale. The UrbnCare comes with 6 nozzles, so different people in the family can each use their own. When tips wear out, the Water Flosser Tips Replacement Kit ($8) has 6 replacement tips and a small carry bag.

Charging and battery

Check how often it needs charging. The UrbnCare is listed at up to 30 days of use per charge, so most people charge it about once a month. A spare Water Flosser Charging Cable ($3) is also available.

What Buyrouth sells for flossing and brushing

• UrbnCare Rechargeable Water Flosser ($39): cordless, 300 mL detachable tank, 5 modes, 6 nozzles, up to 30 days per charge, white or black.
• UrbnCare Water Flosser + Toothbrush Bundle ($49): the same flosser (white or black) with the UrbnCare electric toothbrush.
• UrbnCare Rechargeable Electric Toothbrush ($16): USB-rechargeable handle, five intensity settings, interchangeable brush heads and cleaning attachments, an inspection mirror and a USB cable.
• Tips Replacement Kit ($8) and Charging Cable ($3).
• For travel or a quick clean away from home: Dental String Floss Picks (from $1.50, packs of 10 or 50) and Soft Picks ($5, pack of 150).

How to use a water flosser

Read the instructions that come in the box first. The usual routine for a cordless flosser is:

• Charge it fully before the first use.
• Fill the tank with lukewarm water and click it back into place.
• Fit a tip and choose the lowest mode the first few times.
• Lean over the sink, put the tip in your mouth and then switch it on. Keep your lips almost closed so the water doesn't splash, and let it run out into the sink.
• Work along the gumline, from the back teeth to the front, pausing briefly between each tooth. Do the outside, then the inside.
• Switch off before you take it out, then empty the tank, rinse the tip and leave both to dry.

Use it alongside your toothbrush, not instead of it. If you have braces, implants or sensitive gums, ask your dentist how to use a water flosser.

Buying from Buyrouth

• Delivery across Lebanon: standard delivery $5 (2–5 working days), free on orders of $75 or more; fast delivery $8 (24 hours within Beirut, 72 hours outside Beirut).
• Pay cash on delivery or by card online.
• You can also pick up your order from Buyrouth in Sin El Fil.

Frequently asked questions

Should I buy a cordless or a countertop water flosser?

A cordless flosser suits small bathrooms, travel and homes with power cuts, because it runs on its battery. A countertop flosser needs a socket and counter space but usually holds more water. Buyrouth sells the cordless UrbnCare model.

How long does the UrbnCare water flosser battery last?

According to its listing, the UrbnCare Rechargeable Water Flosser gives up to 30 days of use per charge, so you charge it about once a month.

Can the whole family share one water flosser?

Yes, if each person uses their own tip. The UrbnCare flosser comes with 6 nozzles, and a replacement kit with 6 more tips costs $8 at Buyrouth.

Does a water flosser replace brushing?

No. A water flosser is used together with a toothbrush. Buyrouth sells the UrbnCare flosser on its own ($39) or with the UrbnCare electric toothbrush in a $49 bundle.

Can I pay cash on delivery for a water flosser?

Yes. Buyrouth delivers across Lebanon and accepts cash on delivery or card payment online. Standard delivery costs $5 and is free on orders of $75 or more.