15 Uses Of Toothpaste Apart From Brushing Your Teeth

We all know that toothpaste is an essential part of oral hygiene, keeping our teeth clean, fresh, and free from cavities. But did you know that toothpaste has a variety of other uses beyond brushing? This everyday household staple can work wonders in cleaning, deodorizing, and even repairing small damages. Read on to discover 15 unexpected yet practical ways to use toothpaste!

1. Relieve Skin Irritation

Toothpaste can be a quick remedy for bug bites, insect stings, or minor skin irritations. Applying a drop of toothpaste to the affected area helps to reduce itching and swelling. When used on sores or blisters, it dries them out, promoting faster healing. For best results, leave it on overnight and wash it off in the morning.

2. Reduce Pimples and Facial Blemishes

Struggling with a stubborn pimple? Toothpaste can help! Dabbing a small amount of non-whitening toothpaste onto a forming pimple before bedtime can dry it out and reduce its size overnight. However, be cautious if you have sensitive skin, as toothpaste can sometimes cause irritation.

3. Clean and Strengthen Fingernails

To keep your nails clean, shiny, and strong, scrub them with toothpaste using an old toothbrush. This helps remove dirt and stains while giving your nails a healthy sheen. This trick works particularly well for those who have discolored nails due to excessive nail polish use.

4. Remove Unwanted Odors from Hands

After handling strong-smelling foods like garlic, onion, or fish, simply rub your hands with a bit of toothpaste and rinse with warm water. The toothpaste neutralizes and eliminates the lingering odor effectively.

5. Tackle Stains on Clothes

Toothpaste can help remove stains from fabrics, such as ink, coffee, or makeup stains. Apply toothpaste directly onto the stain, rub briskly, and rinse with water before washing as usual. Be cautious with whitening toothpaste, as it can sometimes bleach colored fabrics.

6. Restore Dirty or Scuffed Shoes

Got scuffed leather shoes or dirty sneakers? Toothpaste can make them look as good as new! Apply a small amount onto the scuffed area and scrub with an old toothbrush. Wipe away with a damp cloth, and your shoes will regain their lost shine.

7. Erase Crayon Marks from Walls

If your child has turned your walls into a canvas with crayons, toothpaste can save the day. Apply a small amount onto a damp cloth and gently rub the marks. The mild abrasiveness of toothpaste helps remove the crayon without damaging the paint.

8. Make Silver and Diamond Jewelry Sparkle

Dull-looking jewelry? Toothpaste can restore its shine! Rub a small amount onto silver jewelry, let it sit overnight, and wipe clean with a soft cloth in the morning. For diamond jewelry, gently scrub with a toothbrush and rinse thoroughly. Avoid using toothpaste on pearls, as it may damage their delicate surface.

9. Remove Scratches from DVDs and CDs

Minor scratches on DVDs or CDs can cause them to skip or not play properly. Applying a thin layer of toothpaste and gently rubbing it in circular motions can help smooth out the scratches. Rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth before playing.

10. Deodorize Baby Bottles

Over time, baby bottles can develop a sour-milk smell. Cleaning them with toothpaste and a bottle brush helps remove residue and eliminates unpleasant odors. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no toothpaste is left behind.

11. Remove Burned Residue from Irons

If your iron’s plate has developed a burned crust, toothpaste can help remove it. The silica in toothpaste gently grinds away the residue. Apply a small amount to a cloth and scrub the plate before wiping it clean with a damp cloth.

12. Erase Watermarks from Furniture

Water rings on wooden furniture can be frustrating, but toothpaste can help! Gently rub the watermark with a bit of toothpaste using a soft cloth, then wipe it off with a damp cloth. Let it dry and apply furniture polish for extra protection.

13. Fill Small Holes in Walls

Need to cover up nail holes in your wall? White toothpaste works as a quick and easy filler. Apply a small amount to the hole, smooth it out, and let it dry. For a seamless finish, touch up with a bit of paint.

14. Stick Posters Without Damaging Walls

Instead of using tape or sticky tack, dab a little toothpaste onto the corners of a poster and press it onto the wall. When removing the poster, wipe away any residue with a damp cloth. This trick works best for lightweight posters and walls that aren’t too delicate.

15. Prevent Fogging on Goggles

To keep swimming or skiing goggles from fogging up, apply a thin layer of toothpaste to the lenses and wipe it off gently. Avoid rubbing too hard to prevent scratches. This trick also works on bathroom mirrors to prevent steam buildup.

Final Thoughts

Who would have thought that toothpaste, a product we use every morning, could be so versatile? From skincare and household cleaning to DIY fixes, toothpaste proves to be a handy multi-purpose item. The next time you run into one of these everyday problems, give toothpaste a try—you might be surprised by the results!