Colgate Wisp Review

SD's Review
I feel like I can't go anywhere these days without seeing an ad for the new Colgate Wisp. I am always curious and can get somewhat excited about new products (sad but true) so I was keen to give them a go.

The sales pitch is that the Colgate Wisp is a device quite similar to a toothbrush - but it is small, once only use, disposable and you don't need any water so you can use it anytime, anywhere. In essence it is an on- the-go toothbrush.

But after carrying a few around with me for quite a few weeks I hardly ever used them because I didn't really find a need. I have my toothbrush at home, or I take it with me when I travel, so why use another? I don't suffer from bad breath and if I do eat something along the smelly side, I'd much rather have a mint or a piece of gum as it is far more sociably acceptable than cleaning your teeth at a table with a mini toothbrush! I suppose they expect you to go to the bathroom but that just seems like extra hassle to me for no real reason.

The cynic in me can't help but feeling that Colgate are trying to create an issue here in order to create a market and see more product (we all watch Gruen Transfer now so we know the tricks!) - Do I have bad breath? Do I need to clean my teeth more often? -making people paranoid.

The only time I did end up using it was when I was on a long haul flight - but these days most airlines give you toothpaste & a toothbrush anyway in your little kit with socks.

So my verdict is don't waste your money.

Linda's Review
The Colgate wisp is a creative and interesting idea, a little toothbrush to store in your bag for those moments when you need a quick brush – between work at the end of the day and a function, in the morning if you forgot, before an important meeting. We’ve all had those moments.


The advantages are the convenience – the little packages slip easily in your handbag, and the packaging stays in-tact despite mine rumbling around the depths of the bottom of my handbag with who knows what else for at least two weeks. And they do pretty much do the job – my teeth and breath felt fresher after using the Wisp. I really liked the little tip on the end for flossing. You don’t really need water but it is an advantage, a quick swig from a water bottle is fine.

The drawbacks – the biggest one for me is the wastefulness. I was really surprised in this day of trying to make re-usable and environmentally friendly products that you would be using the Wisp only once then throwing it away. There’s no mention of biodegradability of the product and I’d feel guilty putting this in the bin frequently. I didn’t like the little bristles – I thought they scraped a bit too much on your gums and felt like you were brushing them with hard plastic. The little ball of toothpaste in the centre was also a bit difficult to get too, although despite trying my best I couldn’t use it all, so there is more than enough there.

Overall, it’s a great concept and for the convenience and benefit I could easily get over the hard bristles if Colgate could find a more environmentally friendly way of producing and disposing of them.

Simon's Review
Whilst they are wasteful (to much packaging) they absolutely fulfill their purpose.

The bristles do NOT hurt and are soft, they also clean away particles and plaque that gum and mouthwash does not. I find that they are way better than gum and Listerine patches for that exact reason.

While carrying a small regular toothbrush is MUCH more environmentally sound you can’t really use that in a car driving to a late afternoon meeting, or in that split second that you realize in a hurry you forgot to brush in the morning you can use it while walking into work or school.

On the other hand I would stop by a drinking fountain or something after you use it, the taste is lacking. But all in all they do exactly what is promised.

 
If you have used this products or indeed a similar product, what are your thoughts on the Colgate Wisp?