Silk vs Nylon Floss: Is Silk Floss Better Than Regular Floss?

Both clean your teeth well if you use them every day, so the better floss is the one you'll actually use. The difference is what they're made of. Silk floss is a natural, compostable fiber, while nylon and PTFE floss are plastics that don't break down.

Here's how they compare so you can pick.

What each one is made of

Nylon floss is a petroleum-based plastic, usually many thin strands twisted together and often coated with wax and flavor.

PTFE floss (the "glide" type) is a single slippery plastic ribbon. PTFE is a fluoropolymer, and it falls under the broad PFAS definition used by groups like the OECD. Some studies have linked certain flosses to higher PFAS levels in users.

Silk floss is made from natural silk fiber. Ours is peace (Ahimsa) silk coated with plant-based candelilla wax and a light peppermint oil, with no PFAS or PTFE.

How they clean

Cleaning comes down to technique. Wrap the floss in a C-shape around each tooth and slide it gently below the gumline. All three types do that job. PTFE slides most easily between very tight teeth. Nylon is the most shred-resistant. Silk is soft on the gums, but some people find it frays a bit faster on rough edges or crowded teeth.

Environmental difference

This is where they really split. Nylon and PTFE floss can shed microplastics, aren't recyclable, and usually come in a plastic case you throw away. Silk floss is biodegradable and compostable. Pair it with a refillable stainless steel container and the only thing you replace is the spool, which ships plastic-free.

We go deeper into the microplastics question in are there microplastics in your mouth?.

Is silk floss good?

For most people, yes. It does the same job as regular floss when you use it daily with good technique. The people who may prefer something else are those with very tight contacts, bridges or braces, who often do better with PTFE tape, floss threaders or water flossers. Ask your dentist if you're not sure.

Cost

Nylon floss is cheapest up front. Our Silk Floss Refill 2-Pack is $9.99 for two 33-yard spools, which is about four months of daily flossing. The refillable container is $8.49 and comes with one spool.

Is silk floss vegan?

Silk comes from silkworms, so it isn't vegan. Peace silk is harvested after the moth leaves the cocoon. We explain the process in what is Ahimsa silk. If you're vegan, a plant-based floss may suit you better.

So which should you choose?

If your teeth are very tight, PTFE is easiest to use, but it's still plastic. If you want to cut plastic and PFAS from your routine, silk is the natural choice. Whatever you pick, floss once a day. See how much plastic your whole routine adds up to with our plastic calculator.

Quick answers

Does silk floss break easily?
It's a natural fiber, so it can fray a little faster on tight contacts or rough fillings. Use a fresh section for each tooth.

Is silk floss compostable?
Yes. The silk and plant wax are biodegradable and can go in compost.

Does silk floss contain PFAS?
Ours doesn't. It contains no PTFE or other PFAS.

How long does a spool last?
About two months of daily flossing per 33-yard spool.

Will MABLE refills fit another brand's dispenser?
They're designed for our stainless steel container and may not fit plastic dispensers from other brands.