Quip’s Mouthwash Dispenser: A Stylish Upgrade or Unnecessary Addition?

Quip, known for its sleek and minimalist approach to oral care, has introduced a new product to its lineup: a refillable mouthwash dispenser. But does this latest offering genuinely enhance the mouthwash experience, or is it merely another aesthetically pleasing, yet ultimately unnecessary, gadget? After testing the dispenser for a week, I’ve formed some thoughts.

Initially, the dispenser’s design is undeniably an upgrade over the conventional handling of bulky, often unwieldy, mouthwash bottles. Typically relegated to a cupboard, these bottles are hardly objects of visual appeal. The Quip dispenser, in contrast, is designed to be displayed. Its presence on my counter served as a consistent reminder to incorporate mouthwash into my daily routine, which is a positive outcome.

However, much like several other Quip products, a nagging feeling persists: is it truly essential? The dispenser is currently back-ordered, suggesting that Quip might be tapping into a genuine demand for this type of product.

The mouthwash starter kit comes in two versions: a matte white plastic model priced at $10 and a metal version, available in gold, rose gold, black, and silver, for $20. The design aligns perfectly with Quip’s minimalist aesthetic. The dispenser is understated, blending seamlessly into the bathroom environment.

The dispenser’s functionality is straightforward. The bottom section detaches, allowing a mouthwash concentrate to be inserted. A button on top dispenses a small amount of the concentrate, which is then poured into a provided measuring cup, diluted with water, and used for rinsing. While the process is convenient, Quip hasn’t reinvented the core act of mouthwashing, nor is mouthwash concentrate a novel concept.

Quip’s mouthwash formula is a mint-flavored 4x concentrate. It’s alcohol-free, vegan, and contains fluoride, xylitol, and cetylpyridinium chloride. When mixed with water, the concentrate yields 470 mL of mouthwash. A subscription option is available for recurring refills.

While the subscription offers convenience, it’s essential to consider the cost-effectiveness compared to traditional store-bought mouthwash. Refills of the concentrate cost $7.50 per bottle, producing approximately 470ml of mouthwash. A comparable 500ml bottle of Listerine can be found at Target for $4.50. So, there is a cost difference to consider.

Quip emphasizes the recyclability of its concentrate bottles, encouraging users to follow local waste management guidelines. The company also highlights the reduced plastic waste due to the smaller concentrate bottles. However, the larger plastic or metal dispenser itself raises a question of long-term sustainability. Will users commit to using the same dispenser indefinitely, or will it eventually end up being discarded?

Despite these potential drawbacks, there’s a case to be made for the Quip mouthwash dispenser. Similar to Quip’s Floss Pick, the mere presence of the dispenser on the bathroom counter served as a visual cue, prompting me to swish more frequently. Traditional, less aesthetically pleasing mouthwash bottles might have remained hidden in a cabinet.

The dispenser occupies minimal space, roughly equivalent to a large drinking cup. In a small apartment, every surface serves a purpose. During the pandemic, maintaining a tidy home has been crucial for mental well-being. The Quip dispenser integrated seamlessly into my bathroom setup, contributing to a sense of order and encouraging more frequent mouth rinsing.

Aesthetically, the Quip dispenser enhances the bathroom’s appearance. It’s a functional product that doesn’t detract from the overall design.

Do you absolutely need a designated mouthwash dispenser? No. But if it improves your oral hygiene or enhances the aesthetics of your bathroom, the Quip dispenser is worth considering.

In summary, the Quip mouthwash dispenser offers a stylish and convenient way to upgrade your mouthwash routine. Its minimalist design and compact size make it an attractive addition to any bathroom counter. While the cost per use may be higher than traditional mouthwash, the increased frequency of use and aesthetic appeal might justify the investment for some. Ultimately, the decision to purchase the Quip mouthwash dispenser comes down to individual preferences and priorities. If you value aesthetics, convenience, and a subtle nudge to improve your oral hygiene, the Quip mouthwash dispenser may be a worthwhile addition to your bathroom. But if cost is a primary concern or you’re content with your current mouthwash routine, the Quip dispenser might be an unnecessary expense.