How should one clean plastic dental retainers?

Retainers: I have my patients use a powdered dish washer detergent (the costco kirkland brand) on their pink plastic retainers. You need a container that can hold 2c of water. Add the retainers and 2 tsp of detergent then add water that is on the boil and let sit overnight then brush in the morning with tp. For the newer clear retainers that fir over all the teeth i would just brush vigorously daily.

Several products: There are over the counter products made for cleaning retainers. If there is no metal in the retainer you can also soak them in a mild bleach solution.

Soap and water: Toothpaste can "cloud" your retainer-- use simple soft soap and water then rinse well so you don't have "soap" taste.

Brush w/toothpaste: Acrylic retainers have tiny holes which will collect bacteria that cannot be reached with a toothbrush. You should soak your retainer in a product made for retainers or dentures.

Retainer: Tothbrush without toothpaste which will abrade the retainer. Also use a mix of peroxide and water to soak the retainer. Bleach and water also work well.

Lots of ways: Brush gently w soft toothbrush (no toothpaste, it's abrasive and can scratch the plastic). Clean w soap & water. Soak in 50% diluted vinegar/water. Soak in denture cleaner as per pkg instructions. And clean the case periodically also.

Retainer cleanser: The typical retainer cleanser or denture cleanser used daily will keep your retainers clean and fresh and plaque free. You need also a soft toothbrush just to use for this purpose. Please, follow the instructions and recommendations given by your orthodontist/dentist.