The objective of this study is to measure and compare initial, post-staining, and post-cleaning color, gloss and surface roughness of five different orthodontic thermoplastic retainer materials. Conclusion: For all VFR materials, staining and cleaning does not change contrast ratio, gloss, and surface roughness in a clinically significant manner. Turmeric is a powerful staining agent, and [Delta]E*00 for PE > PP > PU when stained. Invisalign Cleaning Crystals, Polident, and Retainer Brite do not differ significantly in effectiveness of stain-removal except for turmeric in certain cases, where Invisalign Cleaning Crystals were most effective.