Aims & objectives: The present study was undertaken for comparing efficacy of 0.1% octeinidine dihydrochloride with 0.2% chlorhexidine on dental plaque, gingivitis, stain and taste perception among young adults. Materials & methods: A total of 60 patients were included and were randomly divided into 2 equal groups: Group A (n=30): patients, who had undergone oral prophylaxis, were advised to regularly use 0.1% octeinidine dihydrochloride mouthwash (twice daily) and brush (twice daily), and Group B (n=30): patients who had undergone oral prophylaxis, were advised to regularly use 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash (twice daily) and brush (twice daily). The gingival status was assessed by the using Loe and Silness index , and dental plaque by using Silness and Loe index. Plaque index and gingival index was recorded at baseline and after 21 days whereas Modified Lobene index was used to record staining of tooth. The staining of tooth was recorded at baseline and after 21 days. A 5 item questionnaire was also used to assess patients self – assessment regarding the taste perception of prescribed mouthwashes. Results: On comparison between the groups, the mean Plaque score at baseline was found to be statistically non-significant, whereas after 21 days no significant difference was found. While comparing means Plaque score after 21days, significant difference was found within the groups. On comparing mean gingival Index at baseline both Groups showed statistically non- significant result, whereas after 21 days no significant difference was observed in both the groups. The results of taste perception rating included questions on: the taste perception, duration of taste, alteration in taste perception, and convenience in using and duration of rinsing time which was found to be statistically non-significant in both the groups while the effect of taste on food and drink shows statistically significant result. Conclusion: From the above results, the authors concluded that 0.1% octeinidine dihydrochloride is a better mouth rinse than chlorhexidine.