Why I Make My Own Mouthwash
I am conscious about using chemical-free products in my daily routine, and when it came to mouthwash, I was disappointed to find that most popular brands contained alcohol, artificial flavors, and dyes. I wanted a simpler option made with ingredients I already had at home.
Making my own mouthwash allows me to control what goes into it and avoid the harsh burn that often comes with store-bought versions.
A Simple, Herbal Alternative
This homemade mouthwash is a warming, herbal rinse, not a minty one. It’s made by infusing common pantry spices in hot water, creating a gentle mouthwash that leaves your mouth feeling clean without the strong burn of commercial products.
It’s simple, straightforward, and easy to remake as needed.
Why These Ingredients Are Used
This mouthwash is made with cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, dried oregano, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Cinnamon and cloves help freshen breath and add warmth, oregano contributes a clean herbal note, and the nutmeg is used very sparingly to balance the flavor. Together, they create a pleasant, well-rounded rinse without relying on alcohol or artificial additives.
Easy to Customize
One of the things I love about this mouthwash is how customizable it is. You can adjust the strength by using more or fewer cinnamon sticks or cloves, depending on your preference.
If you enjoy a minty finish, you can add a few peppermint leaves, or leave it as-is for a naturally warming, herbal flavor.
A Cost-Effective, Intentional Choice
Another benefit of making your own mouthwash is the cost. It’s inexpensive to make, easy to remake regularly, and gives me peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in it.
It’s a small switch, but one that fits well into a more intentional, simplified routine.
Homemade Mouthwash
Ingredients
- 2-3 whole cinnamon sticks (Ceylon cinnamon is gentler if you have it, standard grocery store cinnamon works fine, use 2 sticks if using a stronger cassia cinnamon)
- 2 tsp whole cloves
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- a pinch ground nutmeg
- 2 cups filtered water
- 2 tbsp vodka, optional
Instructions
- Add the cinnamon sticks, cloves, oregano, and nutmeg to a quart-size heat-safe jar.Pour boiling water over the herbs and spices, fully covering them.Cover loosely and let steep until completely cool.Strain well through a fine mesh strainer.Stir in the vodka if using.Transfer to a clean glass bottle or jar.
How to Use
- Swish 1–2 tablespoons for 30–60 seconds, then spit.Do not swallow.
Storage
- Store at room temperature in a clean, sealed glass container.Use within 5–7 days without vodka, or up to 2 weeks with vodka.Discard if the smell, color, or clarity changes.