Keeping your retainer clean can be difficult, but it’s important for preventing cavities and infection. The California Association of Orthodontists suggests these retainer care tips: wash your hands before and after handling your retainer; soak your retainer often in a vinegar-and-water solution; never boil your retainer, as you can ruin the custom mold; clean with a baking soda scrub or a non-harsh toothpaste; and use a denture cleaner twice per week. California Association of Orthodontists, December 2019