As I awoke from a good night’s sleep, I followed my normal morning routine – brushing my teeth and hopping in the shower – although this morning was different. It was shortly after I reached for my toothbrush that I realized I was out of toothpaste. But not to worry, there laid a sample pack of two Colgate Wisps. Not quite sure how they got there but hey, who doesn’t love a little magic in the morning? As I opened the package I recalled seeing commercials on television for this new invention in dental hygiene. A product that leaves your mouth with a just-brushed clean feeling requiring no water or rinsing? Hmm, sounds cool I thought to myself. Colgate seemed to have thought up a real good idea, an on-the-go alternative to brushing your teeth the old fashioned way. If there was a race going on in my head, it would have been between skepticism and curiosity. Not quite sure who would be winning, but let’s just say it was a close race.

Upon opening the package, I found a small little brush with a handle that seemed to be made for a child. It was awkward to hold and even more difficult to use. The lack of directions on the packaging certainly did not help, although being a sample pack I cast that aside. But wait, maybe I shouldn’t; just because it’s a sample pack doesn’t mean I shouldn’t expect directions. If anything, thats when I expect directions the most, on something I’m “sampling”. Even Pop-Tarts have directions, come on Colgate. Okay, maybe I’m going off topic but don’t worry, I shall be enjoying a delicious Pop-Tart and glass of milk soon enough. After a trial and error runthrough of this new product the verdict was in.

The bristles were dry and stiff, and the only taste it left in my mouth was comparable to eating toothpaste by itself. In the center of the brush head was a small liquid filled bead that burst upon brushing. The whole experience was very dry. Yes this may be the intent, but it just feels a little weird brushing with no water. On the other hand, one thing I did like about the brush is that the end of the handle came to a point. Being plastic and somewhat flexible it certainly beat out its competitor, the toothpick.

Overall, Colgate Wisps are something that I think I will shy away from. Call me old fashioned but how hard is it to plan ahead and brush your teeth before you leave the house. Or, dare I say, pack a travel size toothbrush and toothpaste in your bag or purse, which requires water, but so does showering. It’s simple hygiene, why cut corners? That’s all for this morning, signing off, this is Matt, for your health.