Grants of Australia Review: The Best Mild SLS-Free Toothpaste

The Hunt for SLS-Free Oral Care: Why I Chose Grants of Australia

I was specifically searching for a toothpaste without SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate). SLS is a common surfactant used in many personal care and household products, such as shampoos, toothpastes, hair conditioners, and laundry detergents, because it creates bubbles and improves cleaning power.

However, SLS has been controversial due to potential irritation to the skin, scalp, and eyes, and some studies suggest it may affect the hormonal system over time.

This toothpaste replaces SLS with a plant-based surfactant called Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, derived from coconut. It’s considered safe, though it can occasionally irritate very sensitive individuals. Other than this, the formula is free from controversial ingredients.

The Great Fluoride Debate: My Stance and Finding the Right Balance

My husband and I have tried several SLS-free toothpastes, and this one has become his favourite, so we’ve been using it regularly.
 
That said, I’m still on the lookout for an SLS-free fluoride toothpaste, which is surprisingly hard to find. I personally believe that fluoride, in the proper amounts, is effective for preventing cavities, even though there are ongoing debates about its safety.

Some toothpaste brands offer hydroxyapatite-based formulas as a fluoride alternative. These are promising for tooth remineralisation and cavity prevention, but unfortunately, they tend to be more expensive. 

The texture of the toothpaste

Affordable Natural Care: Is Grants of Australia Worth the Price?

In terms of price, this toothpaste is moderately priced compared to other brands in the 90g–110g range, making it a reasonable option for those seeking SLS-free oral care without breaking the bank.

The Science of a Healthy Smile: Testing the pH Balance

A slightly alkaline toothpaste is considered ideal because it helps neutralise acids in the mouth, which are a primary cause of cavities. Based on my pH test, this toothpaste appears to have a near-neutral pH, which is good for maintaining oral balance without being too harsh.

The colour on the pH test strip was a bit ambiguous to interpret through the lens, sitting somewhere between 7 and 8. However, it clearly leans towards a neutral or slightly alkaline range, which is great for oral balance.

👉Tip: A small lesson from my pH testing: because the toothpaste is so thick and opaque, putting it straight onto the strip can hide the actual colour change. If you're trying this at home, I’d suggest mixing a bit of toothpaste with distilled water first for a much clearer result. Even with the thick paste covering the strip, I could see it leaning towards a healthy, neutral-to-alkaline pH of 7–8.

The Honest Verdict: What I Loved and What I Didn't

Pros:

• The mint flavor is subtle, so brushing feels gentle without any spicy or overwhelming sensation.

• Leaves a mildly fresh feeling after brushing, suitable for sensitive mouths.

• Free from SLS and other controversial ingredients, making it a safer, plant-based option.

Cons:

• Freshness doesn’t last as long compared to conventional SLS-containing toothpastes.

• The texture becomes watery quickly, making it slightly difficult to brush for the recommended 3 minutes. Since the texture becomes watery quickly, I found that using a dry toothbrush (avoiding pre-wetting) helps maintain the consistency a bit longer during brushing

✅ From the same brand, we’ve also tried a baking soda toothpaste aimed at whitening. While it performed adequately, it left a white film inside the mouth even after thorough rinsing, which occurred repeatedly and was a bit unpleasant. Regarding the white film from the baking soda version, it might be due to the alkaline particles reacting with the oral mucosa, so I'd suggest rinsing extra thoroughly if you choose that specific line.

Final Thoughts: A Gentle, Eco-Friendly Choice for Sensitive Gums

Overall, this SLS-free toothpaste is a gentle and reasonably priced choice, especially for those concerned about sensitive teeth or gums. While it doesn’t provide the long-lasting freshness of traditional SLS toothpastes, it offers a safe, plant-based alternative for daily use. If you’re looking for fluoride-free, gentle, and eco-friendly oral care, it’s worth giving this one a try.

*This review is based on my personal experience, and results may vary for others. Please take it as a friendly reference.