Not all teeth whitening strips work the same — these 4 stood out in our testing

Editors tested the best teeth whitening strips of 2026, including Crest, Lumineux and Moon, to see which actually whiten teeth without sensitivity.

You can try to prevent it, but it’s inevitable: everyone’s teeth stain and yellow over time. Dark-colored foods and drinks are unavoidable in our diets, and genetics, thin enamel or poor oral hygiene habits can also play a role. Whatever the reason for your tooth discoloration may be, whitening strips can help fix it at home — at least somewhat. When used properly and consistently, they’re typically effective, says Dr. David Wagner, a cosmetic dentist at Pinar & Wagner Dental Office. But don’t assume that they’ll instantly or permanently reverse years of discoloration overnight. Results take time, and some extra deep stains require a dentist’s visit. To learn more about the benefits and limitations of teeth whitening strips, I talked to dentists.

The NBC Selected staff also tested strips for three months to find the best options. Want more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter. The best teeth whitening strips of 2026 After months of testing and comparison, we chose the following products as our top picks. Keep in mind that everyone’s teeth are different, so what worked for us may not work for you. Remember to consult your dentist before starting an at-home whitening treatment. Best overall An NBC Selected-reader favorite and a go-to product for many members of our team, these