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Article updated on May 15, 2025 at 9:05 AM PDT
Caroline Igo Editor, Sleep
Caroline Igo (she/her/hers) is a wellness editor and holds Sleep Science Coach and Stress Management certificates from the Spencer Institute. She received her bachelor's degree in creative writing from Miami University and continues to further her craft in her free time. Before joining CNET, Caroline wrote for past CNN anchor, Daryn Kagan.
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- Carl R. Greer/Andrew D. Hepburn Award for Best Nonfiction Essay (Miami University, 2020)
That photo-ready, bright and white smile doesn't come naturally to all of us, unfortunately. But heading to an expensive dentist isn't the only way to get brighter teeth, thankfully. At a time when everyday essentials are getting more costly and 93% of Americans are concerned about rising living costs, we have good news -- there are ways to get that smile without breaking open the piggy bank. Picking up the best electric toothbrush that you can is a good place to start, but pairing that with cost-effective whitening strips is definitely where it's at.
- Want a Brighter Smile in 2025? These Expert-Tested Teeth Whitening Strips Can Help
- What to consider
- Best teeth whitening strips of 2025
- Best Teeth Whitening Strips of 2025
- How we chose teeth whitening strips
- Factors to consider when choosing teeth whitening strips
- Best teeth whitening strip FAQs
- What are the most effective teeth whitening strips?
- Do dentists recommend white strips?
- Should I brush before using teeth whitening strips?
While it's fair to say that not every product delivers on its promises, the right one can make a noticeable difference in just a few uses. We tried a variety of whitening strips to see which ones actually work and which are worth skipping. Whether you’re prepping for a big event or just want to freshen up your smile, our picks can help you get there without spending a fortune.
What is the best teeth whitening strip overall?
Crest 3D Whitestrips are our pick as the best teeth whitening strips overall because our tests determined that they had the best results with the most effective active ingredients. If you have surface stains from years of tea, coffee and wine consumption, the whitening agent in Crest 3D Whitestrips can effectively whiten teeth by as much as 23 levels.
However, health comes before vanity so check with your dentist first -- especially if you have a history of enamel erosion or need dental work such as filling a cavity. You should also take precautions when using whitening strips if you have crowns, veneers or fillings, as whitening products may affect these differently.
Best teeth whitening strips of 2025
Pros
- Up to 23 levels whiter teeth in about 24 days
- Remove up to 14 years of stains
- Active ingredient is hydrogen peroxide
Cons
- You might find the coverage to be less than you want
- Most expensive on this list
Crest 3D Whitestrips are truly a classic. They're easy to find and easy to use and I've bought them many times. Each Crest 3D Whitestrips Professional Effects box contains 48 strips for 24 treatments. Wear one strip a day for 30 minutes and Crest claims that you can remove up to 14 years of stains by the end of your last treatment.
One thing to keep in mind is that the coverage is a little less than other brands on this list. I found that the cover was OK, I just wished the strips would reach over my canines more. Despite that, Crest 3D is still my No. 1 on this list, because they're effective time and time again.
Pros
- Dissolves within 15 minutes
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- A refreshing mint flavor
Cons
- On the expensive side
- Must avoid eating and drinking for 30 minutes after application
If you don’t like the feeling of whitening strips sitting on your teeth for up to 30 minutes, you can try dissolving strips, instead. Moon Dissolving Whitening Strips are applied just like any other strips but after 15 minutes, they dissolve. There’s no unnecessary waste or mess and no need to rinse. The strips are also peppermint flavored.
Moon states that in two weeks or less you can whiten your teeth up to seven shades lighter. In addition to being vegan and cruelty-free, these dissolving whitening strips are free of SLS/SLES (which can irritate skin), triclosan, parabens and artificial flavors.
Pros
- Natural alternative -- coconut oil is the active ingredient
- Contains 21 treatments in one box
- Up to 14 shades lighter in a maximum of three weeks
Cons
- On the pricey side
- May slip around
Anyone who has sensitive teeth should check out Lumineux Oral Essentials. Lumineux products don't include hydrogen peroxide and instead use a combination of Dead Sea salt, essential oils, coconut oil and aloe vera. The fit and coverage were great, although they did slip around a bit. Lumineux products are also cruelty-free.
I tested these for three consecutive days, so I can't speak to the long-term efficacy compared with other brands. But Lumineux did conduct a clinical trial that concluded Crest 3D Whitestrips were no more effective than Lumineux natural whitening strips. (The study was funded in part by Lumineux, however.) Still, I think they're worth a shot for people with sensitive teeth and gums.
- Price: $$
- Number of pieces: 42
- Active ingredient: Coconut oil
- Cruelty-free: Yes
- Results in: 3 weeks or less
- Level of whitening: Up to 14 shades
Pros
- 10 flavors to choose from including mint, coconut, strawberry and wintergreen
- Nonslip design
- Results in two weeks or less
Cons
- The brand doesn’t say how many levels of whitening is possible
- May not be suitable for sensitive teeth
Zimba whitening strips are affordable and effective at lightening the shade of your teeth. One pack comes with 28 strips for results in 14 days or less. Wear one strip for 30 minutes a day.
This cruelty-free brand has found a way to combat one of the negatives of whitening strips -- the strong, bitter taste. Zimba offers 10 flavors to choose from, including watermelon and spearmint. On top of that, the strips have a nonslip design that grip your teeth during each treatment.
Best Teeth Whitening Strips of 2025
| Number of Strips | Results in... | Level of whitening | Price |
| 48 | About 24 days | 23 shades | $45 |
| 56 | 14 days or less | 7 shades | $40 |
| 42 | 3 weeks or less | 14 shades | $40 |
| 28 | 14 days or less | Not listed | $20 |
I began this list of teeth whitening strips with teeth whitening products that could potentially make it into this roundup, looking at things like brand reputation, buyer reviews on Amazon and full reviews by other writers. After narrowing the lengthy list of teeth whitening strips, I started testing.
It would be impossible to test the long-term efficacy of all of these whitening strips without annihilating my enamel and gum tissue or distinguishing results with back-to-back testing on my own teeth, so I judged each product against a few criteria that I think will help you make a buying decision.
Before buying your next box of teeth whitening strips, consider these factors.
Fit
You want your strips to fully cover your teeth and not go up over your gums, which can cause gum sensitivity. Additionally, their fit should be snug. While you go about your day, waiting for it to be time to take the strips off, they should not slip and slide around your mouth.
Coverage
While whitening your molars is not necessary (since you hardly see them anyway), your teeth whitening strips should still cover a good percentage of your teeth. After you apply the strip, smile and look in the mirror. Is the strip touching all of the teeth you can see in your normal smile? If not, time to try another brand.
Ease of use
Whitening strips should be simple. Apply the product, wait a specified amount of time and take them off. If the teeth whitening strips require other steps or seem difficult to use, try another brand.
Sensations
If you have sensitive teeth or gums, look for products that will give you the least amount of sensitivity. Oftentimes, hydrogen peroxide is too strong for sensitive teeth, so try coconut oil, instead. Don’t suffer through a product if it burns your gums or hurts your teeth.
Length of wear
Most strips require at least 30 minutes of wear in order to get the best results. If you have sensitive teeth or not enough time for teeth whitening strips, look for products that don’t require much wear.
What are the most effective teeth whitening strips?
Crest 3D Whitestrips are widely considered the most effective teeth whitening strips due to their Advanced Seal Technology, which keeps them securely in place for better contact with teeth. They use a high concentration of hydrogen peroxide -- the same whitening agent used by dentists -- to remove both surface and deep stains while being enamel-safe.
Do dentists recommend white strips?
According to the American Dental Association, it is recommended to use only over-the-counter bleaching kits with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. These include Crest White Strips.
Should I brush before using teeth whitening strips?
You can brush before applying teeth whitening strips. Brushing and flossing before doing so will remove plaque and create a cleaner canvas. It's advised to wait 30 minutes after brushing to use whitening strips.
Are teeth whitening strips OK for your teeth?
If you have healthy teeth and good oral health, using a reputable teeth whitening kit should be fine when used as directed. Teeth whitening products are only meant to be used occasionally and in moderation, and it's always a better idea to speak with your dentist first about finding the best option for you. Additionally, steer clear of teeth whitening strips that contain chlorine dioxide.
People who need dental work or have tooth pain should consult with their dentist to find out if teeth whitening is right for them.
Do whitening strips work on really yellow teeth?
Over-the-counter teeth whitening products may not be powerful enough for very stained teeth. If you're looking for exceptional results for yellow teeth, consult your dentist.
What are the negatives of teeth whitening strips?
The negatives of teeth whitening strips include possible tooth and gum sensitivity. If you use teeth whitening strips too often, it can damage your enamel, and some of the results might not be the exact shade you imagine.
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
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