The 10 Best Teeth Whitening Strips of 2024, Tested

Most whitening strips are considered safe for occasional use. However, certain products may include harmful components such as chlorine dioxide, which can potentially damage tooth enamel if overused. In cases where the strips fail to adhere correctly, the whitening agent, like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, may directly contact the gums, leading to gum irritation, inflammation, or a temporary burning sensation. If you encounter considerable discomfort or have significant discoloration, it is wise to consult your dentist for the most suitable treatment options.

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Our team evaluated over 20 at-home whitening strips, applying them once daily for the duration of their treatment period (approximately one to two weeks). We meticulously tracked their application ease, comfort levels, whitening efficiency, and potential sensitivity. Combining these observations with dentist recommendations and extensive research, we have curated a list of effective and worthwhile whitening strips.

If you've ever desired a brighter smile, you're in good company. With countless options available, including pens, gels, LED whitening kits, and trays, whitening strips provide a straightforward solution to achieve a whiter smile.

Best Overall

Crest 3DWhitestrips Bright Dental Whitening Kit

PHOTO: Walmart

$30 at Target

What We Like

• Simple application

• Effectively whitens several shades

• Quick treatment process

What to Consider

• Unpleasant flavor

Number of Pieces: 22 strips | Cruelty-Free: No

The kit contains 22 strips to be applied for 30 minutes each day over 11 days, and we found them capable of lightening teeth by nearly three shades. The application was straightforward, comfortable, and did not provoke sensitivity, making the experience both easy and painless. Noticeable whitening effects appeared after just a few applications, making them an excellent option for quick results ahead of significant events. However, an unpleasant taste was noted, which is standard among whitening strips.

Best Overall Runner-Up

Crest 3DWhitestrips 1-Hour Express

PHOTO: Amazon

$30 at Amazon

View on Crest.com

$56 at CVS

What We Like

• No slipping during usage

• Rapid whitening results

What to Consider

• Results plateaued after five treatments

Number of Pieces: 38 strips | Cruelty-Free: No

We found these strips user-friendly and effectively maintained their position throughout the hour. While engaged in various activities around the house, they proved neither annoying nor uncomfortable. After just five treatments, we observed a notable improvement in whiteness, prompting compliments from friends. Although the whitening seemed to plateau thereafter, the initial results were satisfying enough. A slight tooth sensitivity was noted at the end, but it was negligible.

Best Budget

Persmax Teeth Whitening Strips

PHOTO: Amazon

$13 at Amazon

What We Like

• Simple to apply

• Adhere securely without movement

• Results visible after just one week

• Comfortable to wear

What to Consider

• Some users mention results could be more pronounced

Number of Pieces: 28 strips | Cruelty-Free: Unknown

For those seeking a budget-friendly option, these strips are ideal. We were particularly impressed by their superior application and adherence to the teeth without slipping. Comfortable to wear for the 30-minute session also left us pain- and sensitivity-free. Brightening effects were noticeable after merely a few treatments, and the included color chart was a plus for tracking progress. Despite the affordable price, these strips excel at eliminating stains and enhancing the smile.

Best Splurge

Crest 3D White Whitestrips with Light

PHOTO: Amazon

$62 at Amazon

What We Like

• Effectively whitens several shades

• Lasting results

• Visible effects after just a few applications

What to Consider

• Possible tooth sensitivity

Number of Pieces: 1 light, 20 strips | Cruelty-Free: No

This set combines the efficacy of beloved whitening strips with an added LED light feature. For 10 consecutive days, wear the strips for one hour each day, then hold the LED light mouthpiece against the strip for an additional 10 minutes (five for the upper and five for the lower teeth). The blue light enhances the penetration of the whitening gel into the enamel, which increases effectiveness, especially against stubborn stains. Byrdie contributor Jenna Igneri praised her results, noting only mild sensitivity that dissipated within ten days.

Byrdie / Jenna Igneri

The Crest 3D Whitestrips With Light Tester

Jenna: Even though I still noticed some mild staining between some teeth and slightly dealt with sensitivity, I would label the 14-day treatment a success. While the results may not be as dramatic, I am content with my newly whitened smile. They are effective, affordable, and significantly outperform run-of-the-mill whitening toothpaste.

Best Rapid Results

Crest 3D Whitestrips, Radiant Express

PHOTO: Amazon

$78 at Amazon

View on Instacart.com

What We Like

• Stays in place during application

• Easy application process

• Visible whitening after the first use

What to Consider

• May cause tooth sensitivity

Number of Pieces: 28 strips | Cruelty-Free: No

Whitening kits often make bold claims. For this offering from Crest, there is mention of whitening by as much as 18 shades. While that was not the experience for us, we did observe noticeable whitening after just one hour of wear. This is impressive compared to other products that usually require multiple iterations to observe any substantial difference.

Application was easy; simply peel and stick, and they remained securely in place for the entire hour. There were moments we even forgot we had them on. Unfortunately, midway through the treatment, one tester had to stop due to some tooth discomfort, but she typically experiences sensitivity. We believe these strips would work well for those with less sensitivity; despite only using half the kit, her teeth whitened by two shades.

Best Dissolving

Supersmile Superstrips Teeth Whitening Dissolving Strips

PHOTO: Supersmile

View on Supersmile.com

What We Like

• Dissolves within 15 minutes

• Appealing taste

• More environmentally sustainable option

• Clarified brightness after each use

What to Consider

• Uncomfortable sensation while dissolving

Number of Pieces: 56 strips | Cruelty-Free: Yes

These strips utilize a unique technology that allows them to dissolve gradually after placing them on the teeth. They’re ideal for quick whitening solutions, especially for those pressed for time. While we found the texture somewhat unappealing during dissolution (they caused the sensation of our teeth sticking to our lips), we were pleasantly surprised at the noticeable improvement following each use. Moreover, they leave behind a refreshing peppermint taste, although it's necessary to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after use.

Best for Sensitive Teeth

iSmile Teeth Whitening Strips

PHOTO: Target

$45 at Target

View on Shopismile.com

What We Like

• Simple and convenient to apply

• Effectively whitens teeth

• No associated sensitivity, even for extremely sensitive teeth

• Additional strips for touch-ups included

What to Consider

• Excess gel can make them messy and challenging to remove

• Instructions could be clearer

Number of Pieces: 44 strips | Cruelty-Free: Unknown

These strips promise a zero-sensitivity experience, and according to one tester with highly sensitive teeth, they really deliver—the first whitening strips she could use for the full 30-minute duration each day for a week! Improvement of three to four shades was noted, and the kit even includes extra strips for future touch-ups.

Best for Dramatic Results

Rembrandt 1 Week Teeth Whitening Kit

PHOTO: Amazon

$31 at Amazon

What We Like

• Results visible after only two uses

• Covers both front and back teeth

• Comfortable to wear

What to Consider

• May induce sensitivity

Number of Pieces: 28 strips, 14 treatments | Cruelty-Free: No

We favor these strips due to their rapid effectiveness in delivering a luminous smile. A visible improvement was observed just after two uses. By the end of the testing period, teeth exhibited significant whitening. The application is straightforward (no gel, tools, or lights needed), and they provide comfort while worn for the suggested 30 minutes. Notably, the kit offered enough strips for two complete rounds of treatment, rendering it an affordable choice that effectively gets the job done.

Most Comfortable

Burst Teeth Whitening Strips

PHOTO: Amazon

$30 at Amazon

View on Burstoralcare.com

What We Like

• Simple application process

• Comfortable to wear during activity

• No slipping during use

• Quick treatment time of just 15 minutes

What to Consider

• Results are subtler compared to other options

Number of Pieces: 20 strips | Cruelty-Free: Yes

We were delighted by how comfortable these strips are to wear. They are quick and easy to use, and once applied, they remain comfortable for the duration of the treatment. With just a 15-minute wear time for each of the seven days, the extra strips in the kit can serve for future touch-ups. While the results weren't as pronounced as with some other tested options, the speed, comfort, and affordability make them a top recommendation.

Best Flavors

Zimba Teeth Whitening Strips

PHOTO: ZIMBA

$20 at Amazon

$25 at Walmart

$24 at Shopzimba.com

What We Like

• Available in various flavors

• Strong adherence

• Gradual noticeable results

What to Consider

• May trigger sensitivity

Number of Pieces: 28 strips | Cruelty-Free: Yes

A flavor that’s not pleasant is a commonly cited drawback to many whitening strips. Enter these strips, which mitigate that concern by offering a range of delicious flavors like mint, peach, and coconut. They adhere well, ensuring they won’t shift while in your mouth. Results develop progressively over a two-week course. Keep in mind, if you have sensitivity issues, you might find this option somewhat uncomfortable.

• PHOTO: Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

• PHOTO: Byrdie / Jhett Thompson

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