Table 1: Comparison of Waterline Test Kits Based on Numerical Data
| Kit Name | Number of Vials | Detection Range (CFU/ml) | Results Time | Price ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit | 6 | N/A | Same Day | 140 |
| Express Waterline Test Kit | 6 | 1-7380 | 5-7 days | 118 |
| StandardCheck™ Gold Standard R2A Mail-In Water Test Kit | 10 | N/A | 5-7 days | 170 |
| SMART Compliance Single Operatory Kit | N/A | =10 | N/A | 175 |
| RapidCheck™ 24-Hour Mail-In Waterline Test Kit | 1 | =500 | 24 hours | 39 |
| Aquasafe™ Water Test Kits | 8 or 12 | =500 | N/A | 69 or 110 |
| Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit with Mailing Label | 4 | N/A | Same Day | 85 |
| DentaPure™ Iodine Test Strip | N/A | N/A | N/A | 22 |
| MyCheck™ In-Office Water Test Paddles | 4 | =500 | 48-72 hours | 41 |
Table 2: Comparison of Waterline Test Kits Based on Features
| Kit Name | Testing Method | Results Delivery | Third-Party Verification | Manufacturer | Price Range ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit | Mail-In | Same Day | Yes | PROEDGE DENTAL PRODUCTS | 85-140 |
| Express Waterline Test Kit | Mail-In | 5-7 days | Yes | PROEDGE DENTAL PRODUCTS | 118 |
| StandardCheck™ Gold Standard R2A Mail-In Water Test Kit | Mail-In | 5-7 days | Yes | STERISIL, INC | 170 |
| SMART Compliance Single Operatory Kit | Shock Treatment | N/A | N/A | STERISIL, INC | 175 |
| RapidCheck™ 24-Hour Mail-In Waterline Test Kit | Mail-In | 24 hours | Yes | STERISIL, INC | 39 |
| Aquasafe™ Water Test Kits | In-Office | N/A | N/A | COMPLIANCE TRAINING PARTNERS HPTC I | 69-110 |
| Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit with Mailing Label | Mail-In | Same Day | Yes | PROEDGE DENTAL PRODUCTS | 85 |
| DentaPure™ Iodine Test Strip | Water Test Strip | N/A | N/A | CROSSTEX INTL | 22 |
| MyCheck™ In-Office Water Test Paddles | In-Office | 48-72 hours | Yes | STERISIL, INC | 41 |
Waterline test kits are used to monitor water purity. Kits contain the supplies necessary to conduct onsite water quality analysis or to collect water samples that can be sent to an offsite lab for testing.
Top 10 Dental Unit Waterline Cleaning Solutions & Treatments
1. Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit (No Mailing Label Included)
Product Description
The Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit offers dental professionals a convenient and reliable way to assess the microbial quality of their irrigant water. This service provides same-day results and third-party verification to help ensure compliance with CDC dental waterline standards.
Product Overview
Ideal for routine monitoring of dental unit waterlines, the kit includes all necessary materials for collecting and submitting water samples to the lab. Though it does not include a pre-paid mailing label, it allows for fast lab turnaround and includes access to a consultation with water safety specialists if results exceed compliance thresholds.
Key Features
Same-day testing results from an accredited lab
Third-party validation of CDC compliance
Includes sterile collection vials and insulated shipping materials
Consultation available for waterline treatment recommendations
Simple and clear step-by-step instructions
Common Applications
Routine dental unit waterline monitoring
Verifying compliance with CDC infection control guidelines
Identifying bacterial contamination in dental irrigation systems
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit (No Mailing Label)
Brand: Flo™
Manufacturer: ProEdge Dental Products
Testing Type: Dental waterline microbial testing
Results: Same-day lab results (after receipt)
Package Contents:
- 6 sterile sample vials
- 1 submission form
- 1 nylon pouch
- 1 insulated silver mailer
- 1 ice pack
- Instructions for use
Shipping Label: Not included
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (based on verified dental office reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Fast results and easy to use
- Great peace of mind for meeting CDC standards
- Reliable service and professional consultation
Top 10 Waterline Filters & Cartridges in Dentistry
2. Express Waterline Test Kit
Learn More
Express Waterline Test Kits are complete mail-in kits that come with a free overnight mailing label. They are an easy and reliable method to evaluate your dental irrigant water quality.
- Collect water samples in the collection vials and place in the provided mailer pack
- Provides third-party documentation of water quality
- Gold-standard testing and laboratory methods
- Comprehensive report emailed after incubation
- Free consultation with water safety specialists
Contains: 1 styrofoam clamshell mailer pack, 1 return box, 1 ice pack and 6 collection vials
Detection Range: 1-7380 CFU/ml
Manufacturer Name: PROEDGE DENTAL PRODUCTS
Old Manufacturer #: 90601
Results Testing Location: Mail In
Standards Met: ADA, CDC 500 CFU/ml Standard
Test Type: Water Quality Tester
3. StandardCheck™ Gold Standard R2A Mail-In Water Test Kit
Product Description
The StandardCheck™ Gold Standard R2A Mail-In Water Test Kit from Sterisil provides reliable heterotrophic plate count (HPC) testing using the R2A method—considered the gold standard in dental waterline testing. Designed for dental practices seeking accurate and in-depth microbial water analysis, this kit evaluates overall water quality and bacterial load.
Product Overview
This mail-in test kit includes everything needed for easy sample collection and secure shipment to a certified third-party lab. Results are delivered within 5–7 days and include high-resolution images of each sample to enhance transparency and documentation. It also includes a return shipping label for added convenience.
Key Features
Uses the gold standard R2A method for HPC testing
Certified third-party lab provides detailed microbial analysis
Includes return shipping label for fast processing
Hi-res images of sample results included in the report
Supports documentation of general water quality and compliance
Common Applications
Testing dental unit waterlines for microbial contamination
Routine quality checks of dental irrigation systems
Supporting documentation for compliance and infection control protocols
Technical Specifications
Product Name: StandardCheck™ Gold Standard R2A Mail-In Water Test Kit
Brand: StandardCheck™
Test Type: HPC (Heterotrophic Plate Count)
Testing Method: R2A (gold standard)
Results: Within 5–7 days
Testing Location: Certified third-party mail-in lab
Includes:
- 10 (10 ml) sterile vials
- Freezer packs
- 1 insulated shipper
- 1 return shipping label
Report Includes: Water quality summary and hi-res chair sample images
Manufacturer: Sterisil, Inc.
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (based on verified dental practice reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Very thorough and easy-to-read reporting
- Reliable for documentation and regulatory needs
- Simple kit with clear instructions and fast return shipping
4. SMART Compliance Single Operatory Kit
Product Description
The SMART Compliance Single Operatory Kit by Sterisil® is a comprehensive solution designed to maintain and monitor dental unit waterline quality. It combines advanced disinfection technology with routine testing tools to ensure long-term microbial control and regulatory compliance.
Product Overview
This all-in-one kit includes the Sterisil® Straw V2, which delivers continuous waterline disinfection for up to 365 days. The included CitriSil™ Shock Tablets provide monthly shock treatments to eliminate odor-causing bacteria, while the MyCheck™ Paddles allow you to easily test CFU levels and verify waterline safety.
Key Features
Sterisil® Straw V2 delivers automatic, year-long disinfection
CitriSil™ Shock Tablets provide effective monthly shock treatments
MyCheck™ Paddles support simple monthly waterline testing
Helps maintain CFU levels at ≤10 CFU/ml
Ideal for single-operatory practices focused on CDC and EPA compliance
Common Applications
Continuous disinfection of dental unit waterlines
Monthly shock treatments to eliminate biofilm and bacteria
Routine in-office testing for microbial waterline compliance
Technical Specifications
Product Name: SMART Compliance Single Operatory Kit
Brand: Sterisil®
CFU Level Target: ≤10 CFU/ml
Kit Includes:
- 1 Sterisil® Straw V2 (S365-V2)
- 1 four-pack of CitriSil™ Shock Tablets (ECS-4)
- 1 four-pack of MyCheck™ Paddles (MC-4)
Manufacturer: Sterisil, Inc.
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (based on verified dental user reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Great all-in-one solution for compliance and peace of mind
- Easy to implement and saves time on waterline maintenance
- Reliable and accurate CFU testing built into routine care
5. RapidCheck™ 24-Hour Mail-In Waterline Test Kit
Product Description
The RapidCheck™ 24-Hour Mail-In Waterline Test Kit provides dental professionals with a fast and reliable method to verify the microbial quality of their dental unit waterlines. Designed to meet CDC and EPA standards, this kit confirms whether your practice remains within the recommended ≤500 CFU/ml guideline.
Product Overview
This easy-to-use kit includes a sterile sample vial and a prepaid return shipping label, allowing for convenient mailing to a certified third-party lab. Within 24 hours of lab receipt, users receive an emailed report that includes detailed microbial findings and compliance status.
Key Features
Fast turnaround—results within 24 hours of lab receipt
Certified third-party lab analysis
Complies with CDC and EPA microbial water standards (≤500 CFU/ml)
Includes prepaid return shipping label
Concise and easy-to-read water quality report
Common Applications
Routine monitoring of dental unit waterline contamination
Verifying compliance with CDC and EPA microbial guidelines
Quick confirmation following treatment or shock of waterlines
Technical Specifications
Product Name: RapidCheck™ 24-Hour Mail-In Waterline Test Kit
Brand: RapidCheck™
Testing Type: Bacterial (CFU/ml)
Results Time: 24 hours
Standards Met: CDC, EPA (≤500 CFU/ml)
Testing Location: Certified mail-in laboratory
Package Contents:
- 1 sterile collection vial
- 1 return shipping label
Manufacturer: Sterisil, Inc.
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (based on verified dental practice reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Incredibly fast and accurate testing
- Ideal for confirming compliance after treatment
- Easy kit with clear instructions and quick reporting
6. Aquasafe™ Water Test Kits – 8-Unit Test
Aquasafe™ Water Test Kits – 8-Unit Test
Product Description
The Aquasafe™ Water Test Kit provides dental professionals with a simple, in-office solution to monitor and manage dental unit waterline quality. Designed to align with CDC recommendations, this kit supports proactive infection control by helping practices maintain water quality below 500 CFU/ml.
Product Overview
This 8-unit kit allows you to perform multiple tests across operatories or at regular intervals to ensure ongoing compliance. With clear in-office reporting, the kit also includes guidance for addressing failed results and suggestions for implementing consistent protocols. Aquasafe® offers automatic renewal options to help practices stay on track with their testing schedules.
Key Features
In-office water testing with visible results
Helps meet CDC microbial water guidelines (≤500 CFU/ml)
Includes instructions for corrective action if contamination is detected
Supports infection prevention and patient safety
Includes 8 test monitors for multiple operatories or timepoints
Optional automatic renewal program for consistent monitoring
Common Applications
Routine in-office testing of dental unit waterlines
Verifying ongoing compliance with CDC microbial standards
Tracking bacterial growth over time for proactive treatment planning
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Aquasafe™ Water Test Kits – 8-Unit Test
Brand: Aquasafe®
Testing Type: In-office water quality test (CFU/ml)
Results Testing Location: In Office
Standards Met: CDC (≤500 CFU/ml)
Package Contents: 8 test monitors
Package Quantity: 1/Pkg
Manufacturer: Compliance Training Partners HPTC I
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (based on verified dental practice reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Easy-to-read in-office results
- Great value for testing multiple units
- Provides peace of mind and keeps us compliant
7. Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit with Mailing Label
Product Description
The Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit with Mailing Label offers a simple and accurate solution for evaluating dental unit water quality. Utilizing advanced flow cytometry, this kit delivers precise same-day analysis and third-party validation of compliance with CDC microbial standards.
Product Overview
Ideal for dental practices focused on regulatory compliance and patient safety, the kit includes pre-labeled return shipping materials for fast submission. The test measures absolute bacterial cell count, offering a more sensitive and comprehensive overview of water quality than traditional CFU testing methods.
Key Features
Advanced flow cytometry testing for precise bacterial cell count
Same-day lab results after sample receipt
Includes return shipping label for convenience
Certified third-party validation for CDC compliance
Supports routine monitoring and waterline treatment verification
Common Applications
Monitoring waterline quality to meet CDC infection control standards
Confirming the effectiveness of shock treatments or maintenance products
Routine bacterial testing of dental irrigation systems
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Flo™ Mail-In Waterline Testing Service Kit with Mailing Label
Brand: Flo™
Testing Method: Flow cytometry
Testing Location: Certified mail-in laboratory
Results Time: Same day (upon lab receipt)
Standards Met: CDC (≤500 CFU/ml equivalent)
Package Contents:
- 4 sterile water collection vials
- 1 ice pack
- 1 styrofoam clamshell mailer
- 1 return shipping box
- 1 return shipping label
Manufacturer: ProEdge Dental Products
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.9 out of 5 (based on verified user reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Most accurate and easy-to-use testing method we’ve used
- Great for documenting compliance
- Convenient with fast turnaround and professional reports
8. DentaPure™ Iodine Test Strip
Product Description
The DentaPure™ Iodine Test Strip is a fast, effective tool for detecting iodine levels in dental unit waterlines. Specifically designed for use with iodine-based treatment systems, this test strip helps ensure your water quality protocols are functioning properly.
Product Overview
Ideal for confirming the presence of iodine released by waterline cartridges, these strips provide simple visual verification within seconds. They help dental teams maintain consistent disinfection performance and support compliance with infection control standards.
Key Features
Iodine-sensitive test strip for waterline monitoring
Quick and easy visual confirmation
Supports routine verification of iodine-based disinfection systems
Conveniently packaged for multiple uses (50 strips per box)
Common Applications
Testing iodine levels in dental unit waterlines
Verifying the function of iodine-releasing water treatment cartridges
Monitoring routine maintenance of dental water systems
Technical Specifications
Product Name: DentaPure™ Iodine Test Strip
Brand: DentaPure™
Test Type: Iodine detection strip
Package Quantity: 50/Pkg
Manufacturer: Crosstex International
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.7 out of 5 (based on verified clinical feedback)
Customer Feedback
- Quick and reliable for daily checks
- Helps ensure iodine systems are working properly
- Simple to use with easy-to-read results
9. Aquasafe™ Water Test Kits – 12-Unit Test
Product Description
The Aquasafe™ Water Test Kit is an in-office solution designed to help dental practices monitor and maintain safe waterline conditions in accordance with CDC guidelines. With clear visual results and actionable instructions, this kit helps ensure patient safety and compliance with microbial water quality standards.
Product Overview
Each kit includes 12 tests, making it ideal for multi-operatory practices or monthly testing over the course of a year. The Aquasafe™ kit provides in-office reporting and guidance for resolving any non-compliance, along with support for establishing long-term protocols. Automatic renewal options make ongoing monitoring effortless.
Key Features
In-office water quality testing with quick results
Supports CDC-recommended limit of ≤500 CFU/ml
Includes guidance for resolving failed results
Helps establish and maintain long-term compliance protocols
Automatic renewal program available for consistent monitoring
Common Applications
Monthly or quarterly testing of dental unit waterlines
Verifying compliance with CDC microbial water standards
Routine infection control and patient safety efforts
Technical Specifications
Product Name: Aquasafe™ Water Test Kit – 12/Pack
Brand: Aquasafe®
Test Type: In-office water quality test (CFU/ml)
Results Testing Location: In Office
Standards Met: CDC (≤500 CFU/ml)
Package Quantity: 12/Pkg
Manufacturer: Compliance Training Partners HPTC I
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (based on verified dental practice reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Convenient testing option with clear instructions
- Makes it easy to stay ahead of waterline issues
- Great for routine compliance across multiple operatories
10. MyCheck™ In-Office Water Test Paddles
Product Description
MyCheck™ In-Office Water Test Paddles offer a simple and effective method for dental professionals to screen waterlines for bacterial contamination. These paddles provide an estimated heterotrophic plate count (HPC), helping to confirm whether dental water meets CDC and EPA guidelines of ≤500 CFU/ml.
Product Overview
Designed for in-office use, MyCheck™ paddles eliminate the need for overnight lab shipping. Results are visible within 48–72 hours, allowing for quick pass/fail evaluations based on bacterial growth. This system is ideal for routine monitoring or verifying the effectiveness of recent waterline treatments.
Key Features
In-office bacterial screening—no lab submission required
Results within 48–72 hours
Visual pass/fail interpretation based on bacterial growth
Confirms compliance with CDC and EPA water quality standards
Helps support ongoing infection control and patient safety
Common Applications
Routine waterline compliance monitoring
Confirming treatment efficacy after shocking dental units
Monthly or quarterly bacterial screenings
Technical Specifications
Product Name: MyCheck™ In-Office Water Test Paddles
Brand: MyCheck™
Test Type: Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC)
Results Testing Location: In Office
Results Time: 48–72 Hours
Standards Met: CDC, EPA (≤500 CFU/ml)
Package Quantity: 4/Pkg
Manufacturer: Sterisil, Inc.
Customer Ratings
Rating: 4.8 out of 5 (based on verified dental user reviews)
Customer Feedback
- Easy to use and interpret
- Ideal for keeping up with compliance in-house
- Accurate and cost-effective for small practices
